Why itchy, swollen, dry labia. What diseases give such a symptom. How to get rid of itching.

Itching is a sensation that is very difficult to overcome. You can imagine how unpleasant it is for a woman who really wants to scratch "there." Should she immediately run to the gynecologist? It is necessary to understand why such discomfort occurs, how to get rid of it.

What does itching and swelling of the labia mean?

I call itching an irresistible desire to scratch the skin. It literally originates in the head. That's how he reacts nervous system in response to local irritation.

Itching and swelling of the labia in a woman is often a non-specific symptom of one of the many gynecological diseases. Also, the occurrence of uncomfortable sensations can be associated with non-compliance with the rules of personal hygiene.

The most common reasons why the labia swell and itch are:

  1. Insufficient hygiene of the genitals, when a woman is rarely washed away
  2. Synthetic underwear that does not "breathe" and creates a "greenhouse effect"
  3. Wearing sanitary tampons for more than 3 hours and sanitary napkins critical days longer than 5 hours
  4. Frequent washing with soap
  5. Allergy to panty liners
  6. Allergy to medications intimate hygiene
  7. Injury during sex
  8. Overheat
  9. hypothermia
  10. stress
  11. Irritation after shaving or waxing
  12. Pubic lice bites
  13. Dysbacteriosis of the vagina
  14. The use of some medicines
  15. Inflammation of the genital organs of a non-infectious nature
  16. Inflammation of the genital organs of an infectious nature (including venereal diseases)
  17. Metabolic disorders due to diseases of the endocrine glands, pregnancy, menstruation, menopause
  18. Diseases of the urinary system
  19. Blood diseases
  20. Oncological diseases

IMPORTANT: Itching of the labia, accompanied by their swelling, is often observed in nervous, overly emotional women. There is a psychosomatic



Irritation from a razor is one of the reasons why the labia itch.

If there is a single episode of itching of the labia, it may be caused by squeezing underwear, an uncomfortable posture, etc. There is no point in worrying, everything will pass by itself. Do not let the problem take its course and consult a doctor without fail, if it itches constantly, itching is accompanied by:

  • swelling and redness
  • swelling
  • secretions (with an unpleasant odor)
  • cracks and abrasions of the labia
  • painful urination
  • pain during intercourse

IMPORTANT: Often the itching of the labia is so intense that a woman is unable to sleep at night and do her usual activities during the day

Itching and swelling of the labia without discharge, causes

Itching dull pain in the region of the labia minora and labia majora, accompanied by swelling, but without discharge, may indicate vulvodynia in a woman.

IMPORTANT: Vulvodynia is a pain syndrome that is not associated with infections. Most often it occurs due to allergies or neuropathy.

  1. Pathology is most often observed in women of childbearing age.
  2. Pain and itching occur for no apparent reason and literally prevent a woman from living.
  3. Discomfort in the genital area affects a woman's sexuality
  4. Vulvodynia is the cause of depression


Vulvodynia is the cause of itchy pain in the female vulva.

The cause of itching in the area of ​​the labia and the entire vulvar complex is an increase in the number of signals sent to the brain from local nerve endings. This is often associated with inflammation (neuritis) of the pudendal nerve. Pathology is provoked:

  • childbirth
  • abortion
  • sloppy, too rough intercourse
  • mechanical injury

If, after a thorough gynecological examination, tests for genital infections, ultrasound and other examinations, the diagnosis of vulvodynia is confirmed, it is often necessary to undergo treatment not only with a female doctor, but also with a psychologist and / or neuropathologist.

Vulvodynia is treated:

  • diet (to reduce urinary oxalate)
  • Kegel exercises (to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and relieve spasm)
  • baths
  • antihistamines (if allergic)
  • anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs (Diclofenac, Naproxen)
  • antidepressants

IMPORTANT: Sometimes psychotherapy is indicated for a patient with vulvodynia

Itching of the labia and white discharge, causes

The cause of itching, pain, redness of the labia minora and labia majora, the external genitalia of a woman can be a Candida fungus. Simply put, thrush in women can manifest with such symptoms.

IMPORTANT: Up to 75% of women of childbearing age have had thrush at one time

Yeast lives in the vagina in most women. If the immune system is strong, the vaginal flora is normal, they do not make themselves felt.

Thrush develops if:

  • a woman has reduced immunity due to stress, acute or chronic illness, overwork, beriberi
  • the woman had a hormonal imbalance
  • woman taking contraceptives, antibiotics
  • woman's blood glucose levels are elevated
  • woman eating ill
  • hypothermia occurred


Candidiasis is the cause of itching of the labia and white discharge from the genital tract.

The doctor detects thrush during a routine examination and confirms the diagnosis with the results of an analysis of the vaginal microflora. As a treatment, he will prescribe:

  • antifungals topically or orally
  • remedies to boost immunity
  • anti-inflammatory drugs
  • diet

If a woman has thrush, her sexual partner should also be treated.

VIDEO: Thrush in women symptoms treatment. Thrush during pregnancy treatment. How to cure thrush

Itching and swelling of the labia during pregnancy, causes

During the period when a woman is carrying a child, her body becomes very vulnerable. Many diseases can "cling" to the expectant mother. Also, there are relapses of those that she had previously in a chronic form.

Pregnancy can be overshadowed by discomfort in the area of ​​the labia: their itching and swelling. Causes of discomfort:

  1. Physiological changes in a woman's body associated with hormonal changes, a growing uterus. Swelling and itching may occur due to circulatory disorders in the pelvic organs, nerve infringement, etc.
  2. Varicose veins. The formation of venous nodes provokes swelling and redness of the vulva, a desire to scratch, pain
  3. Inflammatory processes in the area of ​​the external genital organs of a woman. These are bartholinitis (inflammation of the Bartholin glands located near the entrance to the vagina and secreting lubricant to moisten the mucosa), vulvitis (inflammation of the vulva), vulvovaginitis (inflammation of the vulva and vagina)
  4. Thrush recurrence. A chronic yeast infection often wakes up during pregnancy.
  5. Sexually transmitted infectious diseases


IMPORTANT: The health of the expectant mother is very fragile. Her illnesses can be transmitted to the child or harm him. Therefore, if swelling and itching of the labia occurs, a woman should consult a doctor who is pregnant

What does severe itching of the labia after sex mean?

One of the reasons why a woman has itchy labia after sex is an allergy to condoms.

IMPORTANT: Condoms are made from latex obtained from the hevea tree. Latex contains proteins that are allergenic. Not only latex can cause a reaction, but also all kinds of lubricants, flavors. other



Allergy to condoms can manifest itself in many ways, from itching and rashes on the genitals to asthma attacks. If a woman notices that after protected sex her vagina or labia itches, she needs to visit a gynecologist. He will rule out other possible causes of the problem, such as infection, give a referral to an allergist and tests to identify the allergen.

Itching and pimples and cracks on the labia, causes

Although running water there are almost all homes, there are comfortable panty liners and feminine hygiene products, itching and cracks on the labia can appear due to such ridiculous reasons as:

  • pollution
  • urinary irritation
  • ingestion of stool on the vulva
  • sweating
  • wearing synthetic, too tight underwear

As a rule, it is enough to eliminate these causes to get rid of the problem.



But sometimes things get more serious. Perhaps inflammation of the labia began - vulvitis. It notes:

  • itching and swelling of the labia
  • drying and cracking of the mucosa
  • rashes
  • the appearance of a whitish coating
  • general malaise, nervousness, fever

Vulvitis can be:

  1. Primary - due to mechanical, chemical irritations, hypothermia, allergies, etc.
  2. Secondary - infectious, when pathogenic microorganisms enter the vulva from the vagina, cervix, uterus with vaginitis, colpitis, cervicitis, endometritis, etc.

To cure inflammation of the labia, eliminate its cause and symptoms.

Dryness and itching of the labia, causes

Women complain of dryness of the mucosa of the external genital organs and in the vagina, itching, during pregnancy, after childbirth, in the premenopausal or menopausal periods, after menstruation, when they undergo hormonal changes.



The lack of lubrication produced leads to drying, tightening of the mucous membrane of the labia, discomfort and itching. Sometimes discomfort has to be endured using local moisturizers. Sometimes hormone therapy is required. Only a doctor can accurately answer the question of what treatment should be.

VIDEO: About dryness of the female genital organs

What to do with itching of the labia, how to treat folk remedies?

The woman is not able to find out the cause of the itching of the labia herself and eliminate it with medication. After examination and analysis, this is done by the doctor according to an individual scheme.
With the help of folk remedies, you can try to reduce discomfort. Help:

  1. Douching with soda, iodine, herbal decoctions
  2. Aloe juice tampons
  3. Baths with chamomile, sea salt
  4. Air baths


RECIPE: Douching with soda, salt and iodine

  • in 1 liter of water dissolve 1 teaspoon of soda and salt, 10 drops of iodine
  • using a syringe, a solution is injected into the vagina, they wipe the labia with it
  • repeat the procedure twice a day until the symptoms disappear

IMPORTANT: It is necessary to introduce into the diet as much as possible lactic acid products - yogurt, kefir, acidophilus

Cream and ointment for itching of the labia. Is it possible to smear the labia with baby cream?

Ointments help reduce the feeling of itching in the labia area:

  • antihistamines (Beloderm)
  • corticosteroid (mesoderm)
  • analgesics (Diclofenca)
  • with antibiotics (Akriderm)


IMPORTANT: You can smear the labia with baby cream to relieve mechanical irritation, for example, due to rubbing underwear or due to razor irritation

VIDEO: Itching of the genitals? There is a solution to the problem of folk remedies

2. Causes that are based on the pathology of the internal genital organs. This section includes:

  • pathological discharge in women with inflammatory processes in the uterus and its neck;
  • chemical irritation of the external genital organs in women with urine that occurs during the act of urination in the presence of, for example, congenital urogenital fistulas;
  • other hidden inflammatory processes in the genital area.

3. Pathologies from others internal organs:

  • diabetes;
  • hepatitis with severe yellowness of the skin;
  • chronic inflammatory kidney disease and Bladder associated with significant violations of their functions;
  • various diseases of the hematopoietic organs (lymphogranulomatosis, anemia, leukemia);
  • violations of the normal functioning of the endocrine glands, for example, with increased or decreased thyroid function, increased levels of the hormone prolactin, as well as a decrease in the synthesis of sex hormones;
  • cancers that greatly weaken the defense mechanisms of our body, especially with the use of potent medications.

4. Mental factors: strong and prolonged stress, fears of upcoming surgery, nervous disorders, depression, etc. Most often, this group of factors is typical for women, and leads to pathology in impressionable, emotional personalities.

Age and hormonal changes in the female body

Hormonal fluctuations

Itching during menstruation

Itching during pregnancy

Itching of the genitals after childbirth

Itching of the genitals with menopause

Diagnosis of genital itching

The most common diseases accompanied by itching of the genital organs

infections

In the vast majority of cases, the cause of genital itching is the following infectious pathologies:

Itching is often accompanied by disturbances in the normal composition of the vaginal microflora. The most common violation of this plan is candidiasis (thrush), and gardnerellosis.

Both of these pathological conditions are characterized by two points:

1. Inhibition of the development of normal microflora (lactobacilli) in the genital tract.

2. The growth and reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms that are normally found in the genital tract in very small quantities.

Candidiasis

With this pathology, in men, the head of the penis and the foreskin are usually affected, and in women, the external genital organs and the mucous membrane of the vagina.

  • cheesy whitish vaginal discharge with a sharp unpleasant odor;
  • burning, itching and redness of the genitals;
  • pain when urinating;
  • pain during intercourse.

Symptoms of candidiasis in men:

  • itching, burning and redness of the foreskin and head of the penis;
  • the appearance of white plaques on the head of the penis;
  • pain during intercourse;
  • pain when urinating.

Drugs for candidiasis

To date, there is a wide variety of drugs for the treatment of this pathology. Some of them are applied topically (creams, vaginal suppositories or tablets), some - inside (capsules or tablets).

Candidal balanoposthitis (inflammation of the foreskin and head of the penis) is completely curable with local therapy. Apply usually a cream with clotrimazole. It must be applied in a thin layer to the affected areas twice a day for a week. Perhaps a single oral administration of 150 mg of fluconazole.

If vulvovaginal candidiasis is mild and its symptoms, including itching and irritation, are not pronounced, only topical treatment will suffice.

Preparations for local therapy (vaginal suppositories or tablets) include:

  • clotrimazole is the most common topical treatment;
  • natamycin (Pimafucin);
  • isoconazole;
  • miconazole.

In addition, with a mild course of pathology, instead of local therapy, a single use of 150 mg of fluconazole orally is possible. Often, treatment is also prescribed that complements antifungal drugs (fortifiers, immunotherapy, etc.). Symptomatic treatment includes the use of drugs for genital itching.

Gardnerellosis

In almost 90% of men and half of women, gardnerellosis proceeds secretly, and does not show any symptoms. However, the carrier of the infection continues to infect his sexual partners with it.

Self-treatment of this disease often gives only temporary results, which can lead to a transition to a chronic form and the development of various complications. It is necessary to be treated together with a sexual partner, otherwise re-infection will inevitably occur.

Herpes

Inguinal epidermophytosis

The main symptom of inguinal epidermophytosis is the appearance on the skin of pink scaly spots up to 1 cm in diameter with inflammation in the center. Gradually, these spots grow along the periphery, and inflammation in the center of the spot decreases until it disappears completely. As a result, very large, up to 10 cm in diameter, ring-shaped inflammatory foci of red color are formed.

In the acute period, lotions are applied to the affected areas from a 1% solution of resorcinol and a 0.25% solution of silver nitrate. In addition, ointments "Triderm" and "Mikozolon" are used. For oral administration, antihistamines (suprastin, claritin) are prescribed, and after the elimination of the bubbles, antifungal external agents are used, such as lamisil, mycoseptin, nizoral, clotrimazole, etc.

Trichomoniasis

Symptoms of trichomoniasis in women:

  • redness and itching of the genitals;
  • vaginal discharge, usually yellowish, often bad smell;
  • pain during sexual intercourse;
  • pain when urinating.

In men, this disease in most cases is asymptomatic. But sometimes the following symptoms are observed:

  • itching of the male genital organs;
  • burning and pain when urinating;
  • discharge from the urethra;
  • symptoms of prostatitis with damage to the prostate gland.

Treatment of uncomplicated acute trichomoniasis includes oral metronidazole (trichopolum) 2 g once or 500 mg twice a day for 1 week. In some cases, additional treatment is prescribed in the form of immunotherapy, prostate massage, etc.

The main lesion is always located exactly in the place where the allergen (substance, allergic) applied to the skin. However, we must remember that any allergic reaction is not a disease of a separate organ or part of the body, but of the whole organism as a whole. In this regard, lesions can form on any part of the body, sometimes very far from the place of direct exposure to the allergen, including the inguinal region. Often they are swollen areas, small "pimples", vesicles and patches of redness. In the vast majority of cases, such skin rashes are accompanied by complaints of constant intense itching.

Itching and diseases of the reproductive system in women

  • pain in the lower abdomen;
  • liquid purulent discharge;
  • on examination, the doctor reveals a painful, enlarged uterus of a dense consistency;
  • increase in body temperature;
  • an increase in the number of leukocytes and an increase in ESR in the blood test;
  • chronic endometritis is characterized by disorders menstrual cycle, serous-purulent discharge, aching pain in the lower abdomen.

The main symptoms of cervicitis, even in the acute stage, may be mild. In the presence of inflammation of the cervix, mostly women complain of an increase in the amount of discharge, itching, and less often - pain in the lower abdomen.

Itching of the genitals in diabetes

Hepatitis and genital itching

Itching in diseases of the urinary system

Itching in the pathology of the hematopoietic organs

Itching of the genital organs and diseases of the endocrine glands

Itching and swelling of the genitals

How to cure genital itching?

  • examination by a urologist or gynecologist, including using mirrors;
  • general and biochemical blood test;
  • smear analysis.

Based on the results, the doctor will prescribe treatment or additional examination. You also need a local treatment that will temporarily relieve itching, or at least alleviate the condition.

1. Follow the rules of intimate hygiene, and wash yourself 2-3 times a day warm water. You can use a solution of chamomile, or add furatsilin to the water. Toilet soap is not recommended.

2. With dry mucous membranes, do not forget about moisturizing the vagina. Use special gels and lubricants with natural extracts.

3. Give up sexual contact for a while - this can cause even more irritation of the genitals.

4. Follow the diet prescribed by the doctor. Eliminate seasonings, spicy foods, yeast, grapes, blue cheeses and wine from the diet.

How to treat genital itching? Folk remedies

  • Washing the genitals with a decoction of St. John's wort.
  • Sitz baths with a decoction of chamomile or sage.
  • The use of noble yarrow infusion instead of water.
  • Rinsing the genitals with a decoction of mint.
  • Washing the genitals before going to bed with a decoction of tannery.
  • Application to the external genital organs after taking a bath of the following ointment: 1 tbsp. a spoonful of crushed and fried kernels walnut, 1 teaspoon pure vegetable oil, 1 egg yolk. Stir and keep on low heat until the ointment thickens. Then strain through cheesecloth. If the itching is very severe, then you can additionally apply the ointment before bedtime.

It must be remembered that all of these remedies for itching of the genital organs give only a temporary effect, and you can use them until the treatment is prescribed by a specialist.

Treatment of itching in the female external genitalia

Prevention of genital itching

  • do not forget about regular hygiene;
  • wear comfortable underwear made from natural fabrics;
  • do not use pads daily;
  • avoid hypothermia in the cold season;
  • take vitamin complexes;
  • visit a gynecologist once every six months.

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How to treat itching and burning in an intimate place in women. Easy and efficient

The habitual foundation of a modern woman is always full of work and worries. But sometimes ailments occur, and for various reasons a woman can feel very unpleasant symptoms in the intimate area, and this leads to a lot of problems and can completely change her usual way of life. The reasons for this delicate and unpleasant phenomenon are manifold. From ordinary dysbacteriosis to severe infectious diseases. It is important to identify the causes of discomfort in time and carry out the necessary treatment.

Today we will talk about solving a delicate problem that can cause itching in the intimate area in women, find out the causes of this phenomenon.

It will also be very important to figure out how to treat itching and burning in an intimate place in women effectively and safely.

From this article you will learn:

Causes of itching of infectious origin

Among all the problems that may lie in wait for a woman with the manifestation of itching or pain in the groin area, there are several main reasons:

  • diseases caused by infectious agents;
  • diseases of the endocrine system;
  • diseases of a different etiology.

Often these causes are closely related to each other or follow from one another. In all cases, itching accompanies the inflammatory process. An irritating factor acts on the integumentary epithelium of the skin or mucous membrane, causing a chain reaction of the body, which is aimed at destroying the cause or limiting the focus.

Let's get acquainted with the main reasons according to the severity of the course and the risk of complications.

Venereal infections are a large group of infections that are sexually transmitted. According to various data, these infections are quite widespread both in the CIS countries and abroad.

Chlamydia is a disease caused by chlamydia. The most common disease among all sexually transmitted diseases, which is transmitted sexually. It is more common in women and tends to become chronic. According to various sources, more than one billion people worldwide are infected with chlamydia in the world. Penetrating into the female body, chlamydia can be asymptomatic in 67% of women.

Among the signs, a sick woman may feel itching and burning in the intimate area, most often when urinating. Discharge with a yellowish tinge and smell, pain and discomfort in the lower abdomen are also characteristic. But the insidiousness of chlamydia is that a woman may not feel any symptoms, and the disease has already become chronic. In this case, a special laboratory analysis is able to identify the pathogen. Chlamydia in a neglected, untreated state can lead to infertility, the risk of ectopic pregnancy, intrauterine infection of the fetus.

Trichomoniasis is a disease that is not inferior to the previous ailment in terms of prevalence among the population. The causative agent of this disease is trichomonas vaginalis. According to the World Health Organization, about ten percent of people on earth are infected or suffer from trichomoniasis. The danger in this disease is, first of all, the risk of women developing infertility in the future and the abundance of pathological conditions during pregnancy.

Infection occurs sexually, and manifests itself approximately 1-4 weeks after contact with a sick or carrier. In women, it manifests itself in the form of copious, yellow, frothy discharge with a specific odor. There are also symptoms such as itching, burning and pain, usually after urination. The external genital organs are edematous, hyperemic, macerations and foci of secondary suppuration easily appear. This provokes pain during sex.

Gonorrhea is caused by a bacterium called gonococcus. Once in the female body, it manifests itself as acute gonorrheal urethritis. Symptoms of the disease are manifested by burning, tickling in the distal urethra. Frequent urination is accompanied by pain. Discharges are purulent. In some women, the symptoms are not expressed, but this does not mean at all that the infection has not occurred. The inflammatory process rises. In women, the inner lining of the uterus is affected in the form of endometritis, the fallopian tubes and ovaries in the form of salpingo-ovoritis. Urinary organs are affected in the form of urethritis, cystitis. The process becomes chronic and in the future increases the risk of infertility and adhesive disease of the pelvic organs.

Condylomas are unpleasant formations on the external genitalia resulting from infection with the human papillomavirus. In some women, the presence of warts is accompanied by discomfort in the area of ​​​​the entrance to the vagina and around the anal canal. It should be remembered that it is the human papillomavirus that has been proven to cause cervical cancer.

Genital herpes. The herpes virus is in the body of many people. In some, the disease manifests itself on the lips, as a rule, after hypothermia. In other words, the virus is suppressed by the body's immune system. In the case when stress occurs, other diseases lower the body's immune defenses, the herpes virus appears on the skin.

Genital herpes appears as a result of contact with a sick person or carrier. The woman begins to feel itching and burning in the intimate area. Then there are bubbles filled with liquid. In addition to the above symptoms, women are concerned about pain and redness. Infection, under favorable conditions, can penetrate the body and affect the reproductive organs.

Mycoplasmosis and ureaplasmosis. This disease occurs in both men and women. The main symptom is pain and an unpleasant burning sensation in the urethra. Women become infected during sexual contact and due to the proximity of the vagina and urethra, the first unpleasant manifestations are felt in the urethra. The incubation period lasts ten days.

Women suffer from these ailments more than men. Mycoplasma affects the vagina, cervical canal and cervix. But more formidable conditions can occur if a woman becomes ill during pregnancy. Even if there are no active manifestations of the disease, pathology of the placenta can develop and, as a result, not bearing the fetus. The chronic form causes secondary infertility.

As for ureaplasma, here doctors and microbiologists cannot determine whether ureaplasma is an opportunistic microflora or whether it colonizes the mucous membrane after contact with a sick person. It is a small defective bacterium without a cell wall. The uniqueness of ureaplasma lies in the fact that they cannot live and function without urea. Urea is a constituent chemical compound of urine. The clinical manifestation is similar to that of mycoplasma. During the illness, there is burning, itching, and rarely pain during urination. But the insidiousness lies in the fact that the disease proceeds imperceptibly and sometimes secretly, but, nevertheless, affects the female reproductive system. This entails problems with conception and further bearing of the fetus.

Candidiasis - or thrush. A disease caused by fungi of the genus Candida and affecting the mucous membrane of the female genital organs, and sometimes the internal organs. This disease is exclusively female, although men can contribute to its transmission. Fungi of the genus Candida live on the mucosa without damaging it, but under certain conditions they begin to multiply excessively and cause symptoms of candidiasis. Conditions for the development of the disease:

  • decreased immunity;
  • hormonal changes;
  • change in the acidity of the vagina.

Yeast-like fungi affect not only the external genital organs, but also the internal genital organs and intestines. In severe cases, fungi infect oral cavity, esophagus, urinary bladder.

Normally, the vagina is acidic, which is what stops Candida from multiplying. In the case of a combination of these factors, a disease occurs. Also, normally in the vagina there is a mutually beneficial relationship of fungi, viruses of special bacteria Gardnerella vaginalis lactobacilli.

When the balance is disturbed in this peaceful microscopic realm, problems arise. The main regulator is lactobacilli. They deprive the candida fungus of food. The main symptom of thrush is a thick whitish discharge from the vagina. Severe itching and burning. The mucous membrane of the vulva and vagina is bright red and bleeds easily. There may be pain during urination and during intercourse.

Bacterial vaginitis - This is a pathological condition of the vaginal mucosa, as in the case of thrush, due to a violation of the symbiosis between conditionally pathogenic bacteria and lactobacilli. Symptoms include itching, burning, and discharge. The color of the discharge varies from white to yellow-green. A specific sign is the unpleasant smell of "raw fish". This condition gives a woman a lot of trouble, and there is also a risk for the development of complications. Any inflammatory process in the vagina can lead to an ascending infection. Of particular danger is bacterial vaginitis during pregnancy, as a special source of infection for the fetus.

Phthiriasis is an infestation of pubic lice. The disease is extremely unpleasant and is associated with poor hygiene. But you can get infected when using common subjects hygiene and towels. The traditional sexual route is not in last place in terms of infection methods.

Causes of non-infectious itching

Allergic reaction to male ejaulant. In rare cases, a woman may experience a reaction when a man's seminal fluid enters the vagina. It manifests itself as a common allergy in the form of redness, swelling and burning sensation. Itching is also a frequent companion of allergies. Particular concern should be shown if such a reaction occurs between a husband and wife who want to have children. Perhaps this occurs if a man has eaten unusual foods or medicines.

The above problems lie in wait for young women of reproductive age.

But there is a special category of pathologies that a woman can have in the premenopausal period or during menopause. The hormonal background of a woman is changing. Some types of hormones are replaced by others, but under the action of various factors, failures occur in the ratio of hormones, then the following conditions occur.

Kraurosis is a formidable precancerous disease of the external genital organs of a woman. Its essence lies in the degenerative processes of the stratified squamous epithelium of the skin and mucous membranes, followed by the development of atrophy. The reasons are not completely known, not the last role is played by the age-related lack of estrogens. A woman complains of severe dryness of the skin of the external genital organs in the form of itching, discomfort and burning. With the passage of time and the progression of the disease, soft tissues begin to undergo changes. The skin becomes thinner, easily injured and macerated. The labia are smoothed out, the entrance to the vagina can critically narrow. The process may eventually move to the perineum. Diagnosis is based on microscopic examination of a skin biopsy.

Dystrophic changes in the mucosa - does not apply to the precancerous condition of the previous cause. A woman during menopause produces little lubrication, so a woman may experience some discomfort and even itching in the intimate area. At the same time, there are no changes visible to the naked eye and under a microscope on the skin and mucous membranes, just with age there is a lack of hormones.

Malignant neoplasms are a large group of diseases that are accompanied not only by itching, but also by a number of other manifestations. Neoplasms can affect both the vulva and vagina, and the cervix, and the uterus itself.

Fistulous passages - narrow pathological passages in soft tissues, communicating with each other in some cases, the vagina and rectum, vagina and urinary organs. The reasons are varied, mainly surgery, caesarean section, trauma. In addition to unpleasant sensations, they are accompanied by inflammation.

The next group of causes of itching in the intimate area does not apply to any diseases, but is not inferior to them in terms of frequency of occurrence among women.

Hygiene - improper hair removal in an intimate place. If this procedure is performed at home using a razor and foam, then some mistakes can cause burning, pain in the labia area. Shaving against hair growth with a not quite sharp razor, ingrown hairs, skin microtraumas and their suppuration. Improper use of shaving products and after it. The repetition of such mistakes provoke irritation, inflammation and maceration of delicate skin.

Personal hygiene products in the form of panty liners and panty liners for use during menstruation. Manufacturers filled supermarket shelves with a huge number of gaskets for every taste. But sometimes, in the pursuit of cheapness, the quality of this product seriously suffers. Low grade materials have the ability to cause allergies. If this happens, then you should immediately stop using this brand of funds and consult a doctor.

Insufficient hygiene. For various reasons, an insufficient number of water procedures per day can provoke burning and itching, in addition, there is a high risk of developing pathological conditions such as thrush, bacterial vaginitis. Particularly relevant water procedures in summer. During this period, excessive sweating provokes the appearance of chafing and inflammation in the intimate area. Regular change of pads and tampons, as well as the use of wet wipes for intimate care, will help to cope with this problem.

Diseases of the digestive tract - these include systemic diseases of the intestine associated with a violation of the act of defecation. Intestinal dysbacteriosis can lead to thrush. Chronic and acute hemorrhoids, chronic anal fissures, fistulas, epithelial coccygeal passages. These are diseases that are treated by a surgeon - a proctologist. All of them bring torment to a person and are manifested by pain, bleeding and itching in the perineum.

Underwear - the poor quality of the fabric from which the underwear is sewn causes itching and irritation. Synthetic fabrics do not absorb sweat, and natural vaginal discharge thus promotes the growth of pathogenic bacteria. In addition, the greenhouse effect plays an important role here, when an elevated temperature is created in the intimate area. Narrow, uncomfortable styles of underwear injure the skin and mucous membranes.

Soaps and hygiene gels - often allergic to the chemical components of shower gels, soaps, lotions and deodorants. Pads, tampons, toilet paper can also act as allergens.

Contraceptives - the most common type of protection condom. However, the material from which these things are made causes an immediate reaction in some women, and is manifested by itching, burning. Lubricants, spermicides, diaphragms can all cause unwanted reactions. An undesirable effect appears directly during the use of a condom or immediately after sexual intercourse.

Diets - a passion for diets, in which one type of product is in the lead and the lack of rational nutrition reduces the amount of vitamins consumed. This adversely affects the immune system. vitamins of group A are directly involved in the regeneration of the skin epithelium and mucous membranes. From a lack of vitamins in the diet, there is a violation of the structure of the integumentary layer, as a result of itching and burning.

Senile itching - very often the cause of itching is age-related changes, in this case it can be recommended to take sedatives, tranquilizers that improve liver function, take vitamins A and E. Soften the skin with good creams. Of the drugs in this case, Ovestin suppositories are prescribed.

Risk factors

There are several body conditions that can contribute to the development of almost all of these problems in an intimate place.

  1. Diabetes mellitus is a serious metabolic disease with impaired absorption of carbohydrates. In this case, local immunity is violated. In diabetes, bacterial infections develop faster, mainly coccal etiology, causing complications. Also, itching and burning in the intimate area can be a direct symptom of diabetes.
  2. Allergic reactions - general sensitization of the body to the allergen, provokes the appearance of uncomfortable sensations in the perineum.
  3. Overwork syndrome is a long-term stressful situation that causes emotional stress and fatigue, reduces immunity. But in addition to problems with the immune system, depression, increased anxiety and anxiety can cause paresthesia, including in the genital area. Itching in various parts of the body is often a symptom of mental disorders.
  4. Diseases of the thyroid gland, insufficiency of liver and kidney function, anemia of various origins. All these pathological conditions not only change the habitual functioning of the whole organism, but also directly affect the condition of the skin and mucous membranes.

Itching in the intimate area during pregnancy

Normally, a woman expecting a baby should not have itching and burning. Sharp jumps in the hormonal background provoke the reproduction of fungi of the genus Candida and symbiotic bacteria. Therefore, when unpleasant sensations appear, you should not wait for self-healing, but you must urgently consult your doctor.

The second factor is the reduced immunity of the poor mother. According to statistics, up to 85% of pregnant women suffer from candidiasis. When the placenta forms at the beginning of the second trimester, the discharge becomes larger. It is necessary to monitor the color, consistency and smell of these secretions. In case of an unpleasant odor, also contact a specialist. Future mother it is necessary to observe personal hygiene with special care, it is very important for her health and the health of the baby.

What to do if itching occurs

Contact a gynecologist. The doctor will be able to professionally assess the changes in the skin and mucous membranes that have appeared. Assess the type of disease and stage. For confirmation, he will appoint the necessary laboratory tests:

  1. A smear from the vagina - allows you to assess the state of the microflora and identify the pathogen.
  2. Cytological examination - an assessment of not only the presence or absence of microorganisms, but also the condition of the cells of the integumentary epithelium.
  3. Biopsy - a deeper analysis with the study of the cells of the integumentary epithelium of the skin and mucous membranes with a submucosal layer. This diagnostic method is used to diagnose neoplasms.
  4. General tests - a clinical analysis of blood and urine, as well as a biochemical analysis to detect violations of the functioning of the liver and kidneys.
  5. Identification of the level of hormones - hormones of the sexual sphere and the thyroid gland.
  6. PCR is a type of analysis for the presence of a specific pathogen in a smear.

Treatment of itching in the intimate area in women

If dangerous bacteria that can cause severe complications and require long-term treatment in a hospital are not the cause of itching in the intimate area, then these problems can be eliminated with a few simple rules:

  1. Keep the genitals perfectly clean. Perform water procedures at least three times a day. If this is not possible due to circumstances, then use wet wipes.
  2. Replace hygiene products that cause irritation. Be very careful when choosing panty liners and tampons, and don't buy low-end, cheap stuff. Replace hygiene products at least every two hours.
  3. Wear cotton underwear. Choose the right size for your comfort.
  4. Make baths from antibacterial medicinal herbs.
  5. If the doctor does not prohibit, then douching with antiseptic substances for the skin and mucous membranes.
  6. Use a skin soothing product after shaving.
  7. Do not allow a lack of vitamins and minerals in food. Choose diets that follow all the principles of rational nutrition.
  8. Maintain sexual hygiene.

We treat itching of the intimate zone at home with folk remedies

Simple and effective folk methods can relieve the discomfort of burning and itching in the intimate area in women.

Before you start using folk methods, you must definitely establish the exact cause of the itching and start the treatment prescribed by the doctor. Many folk remedies well complement the main drug therapy and are effective in relieving itching.

soda solution

We dilute one teaspoon of soda in a liter of boiling water, cool it so that the solution is pleasantly warm. The resulting solution should be used to douche the vagina twice a day - in the morning and in the evening. This method will relieve the itching, but this will not relieve the causative agent of the unpleasant condition.

Aloe gruel

For treatment, it is necessary to scroll the aloe leaves in a meat grinder, and soak cotton swabs in the resulting slurry. After douching, in order for the mucous membranes of the vagina to heal, it is necessary to insert tampons soaked in aloe juice overnight.

Iodine solution with salt

For douching, you need to prepare a solution in one liter of boiled water. Add soda to the water - 1 teaspoon, salt - 1 teaspoon and iodine - 10 drops. It is necessary to douche with the received medical solution in the morning and in the evening. This procedure has a combined effect of medicinal substances on the vaginal mucosa: washing out fungi, drying and disinfection.

Decoctions and infusions of chamomile and calendula

To prepare a healing decoction, add 2 tablespoons of chamomile to 200 milliliters of water and boil. After that, remove from the fire and insist for 20 minutes. With this decoction we carry out the procedure of douching in the morning and in the evening.

In infusions medicinal herbs calendula and chamomile, it is very good to take sitz baths, you can also add a little sea ​​salt. This simple procedure is very good at helping to cope with itching. After taking the bath, dry the genitals well.

Basil decoction

Pour a tablespoon of basil with two glasses of water and boil over low heat for 20 minutes. The resulting decoction is infused for 30 minutes, filtered and taken orally for treatment. You need to drink 100 milliliters four times a day. This remedy helps the body to cope with infections of various types.

Yogurt and dairy products

To restore and normalize the vaginal mucosa, it is necessary to eat various fermented milk products, such as yogurt, kefir, as they contain beneficial bacteria. It is very important to eat dairy products while taking antibiotics. In addition to yogurt, it is useful to take various supplements, such as acidophilus or lactobacilli.

Medical treatment

For the effective treatment of itching in an intimate place in women, folk remedies are used in complex therapy with medians, this approach gives excellent results and allows you to cope well with the disease.

  1. Boromenthol is recommended when a similar symptom, namely itching, occurs with menopause, with age-related changes, kidney disease, dermatitis, diabetes mellitus and cholestasis.
  1. Nezulin - this ointment has good antimicrobial and antiseptic properties.
  1. Gistan - has a good antiallergic and antifungal effect.
  1. Fenistil - this ointment relieves allergic symptoms.
  1. Of the hormonal ointments, we can recommend - Beloderm, Hydrocartisone, Advantan.

Pills

Treatment with pills is prescribed in the hospital based on the reasons that caused discomfort. With the following diseases, you need to take such medicines:

Conclusion

In conclusion, it should be recalled that women's health directly depends on the woman's common sense and compliance with simple rules of personal hygiene. The main function of women is to bear and give birth to healthy offspring. Itching in the intimate area in women and the causes of its occurrence can cause serious harm to the body. Sometimes, due to a violation of health, women remain infertile, this can forever poison life and destroy a marriage.

In case of a delicate problem, immediately consult a doctor who will prescribe you an effective and safe treatment.

Excellent help from thrush cranberry juice, especially made with one's own hand. Just drink it every day for at least a month.

In any case, at the first unpleasant symptoms and the appearance of itching, you need to urgently see a doctor, let him determine what the reason is and prescribe an adequate solution.

I'll definitely take note this article! Thanks for such helpful information.

With such a delicate problem, most women are in no hurry to see a doctor. Although she, it turns out, may have such serious reasons. Thank you for informing the weaker sex about such important things and always recommend that you seek help from a doctor (although folk remedies in this situation can be good helpers).

For women's problems, a doctor's consultation is necessary, but also folk ways are good. They are natural and harmless to the body.

I think every girl faced such a nuisance as thrush. Gynecologists in such cases usually prescribe Pimafucin suppositories.

There are many reasons for such itching, and only a doctor can determine its cause, and then traditional medicine you can connect.

Itching in the intimate area is a very unpleasant phenomenon. I agree with other commentators that if this problem occurs, you need to see a doctor!

I faced this problem when I was young. Now, thank God, everything is fine. The article is very complete and reveals all the problems.

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The condition, when itching appears in the vulva, is not only unpleasant, but also very debilitating. It forces a woman to constantly seek solitude and the only available method - mechanical stimulation of the mucous membrane - to try to get rid of the tormenting symptom.

Such a short-term "deliverance" leads to the appearance of scratching, which, due to the fact that itching and pain go one at a time. nerve fibers cause the symptoms to worsen. The way out of this "vicious circle" is to find the causes of vulvar itching and eliminate them as soon as possible.

How does vulvar itching occur?

The vulva is the external genitalia of a woman, located between the pubis in front, the perineum in the back and the labia majora on the sides. They are innervated by a large number of nerves: iliac, pudendal, femoral and rectal.

Unmyelinated C-fibers depart from large branches, the duties of which are to convey impulses that are obtained when certain types of stimuli hit the vulvar mucosa. As a result of passing through spinal cord from such impulses the sensation of itching is born.

The largest number of C-terminals are located in the area of ​​the vestibule of the vagina, the clitoris and in the labia minora. That is, if irritating secretions accumulate in these areas or, conversely, the mucous membrane dries out too much or swells, and itching will be felt.

Causes of the pathological condition

The feeling when the genital area itches can be due to a huge number of reasons that are divided into several groups:

Infectious diseases of the genital area

The main diseases transmitted from an infected sexual partner that can cause itching of the vulva are:

  • ureaplasmosis;
  • inflammation of the genital organs caused by the papillomatosis virus;
  • gonococcosis.

When infection of the internal reproductive organs did not occur due to contact with an infected partner, various microorganisms can cause it: staphylococci, Escherichia coli, streptococci, Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

They arise as a result of hypothermia; after an abortion, surgery or curettage; with tattooing or piercing performed in non-sterile conditions; as a complication or urethritis; after antibiotic treatment. After taking antibiotics, itching of the vulva is most often caused by the Candida fungus.

Favorable conditions for the development of an infectious-inflammatory process are created in diabetes mellitus (one of the early manifestations of the disease is thrush), HIV infection, and also during menopause.

Diseases of a non-infectious nature

Itching of the vulvar zone may appear as a result of:

  • plasma cell vulvitis;
  • atrophic vulvitis;
  • squamous cell intraepithelial neoplasia of the vulva - a precancerous disease caused by papillomavirus type 16;
  • cancer of one of the genital structures;
  • , fibroids or uterine fibroids;
  • gartner's canal cysts.

Mechanical irritations

Common causes of vulvar itching may be due to rubbing underwear or tight pants; vigorously wiping the genitals with toilet paper; underwear that has leftovers of soap or detergent; frequent washing with detergents (soap, shower gels), which wash off their protective upper layer from the mucous membranes, which leads to the drying of the mucous membranes.

Skin diseases

Itching in the genital area in a woman can be due to:

  • lichen sclerosus;
  • lichen planus;
  • genital psoriasis;
  • pink lichen;
  • scleroatrophic lichen of the vulva;
  • eczema: contact, atopic.

Pathologies of internal organs and blood

Diseases of some internal organs cause both itching of the skin and itching of the vulva. This can be done by such pathologies:

  • dysfunction of the thyroid gland;
  • liver diseases (hepatitis, cirrhosis);
  • the last stages of chronic renal failure;
  • diabetes;
  • low blood levels of iron;
  • hypervitaminosis D;
  • malignant pathologies of the hematopoietic organs: lymphogranulomatosis, leukemia;
  • gout;
  • some autoimmune diseases (for example, Sjögren's disease).

Mental factors

When a woman lives in a stressful state or is very nervous, her genitals may begin to itch.

Allergic causes

In most cases, an allergic reaction is observed on intimate care products and laundry detergents, semen of a sexual partner, lubricant gels and latex condoms, as well as fabric dyes.

Chemical and physical irritants

As a result of hypothermia or constant contamination of the vulvar region with urine or feces (which is observed with incontinence or urogenital fistulas), a woman may suffer from periodic or constant itching.

When the causes are in the imbalance of female sex hormones

In addition to thyroid hormones and insulin, female hormones, of which there are several types, affect the state of the genital organs. During life, their ratio changes, which provokes itching of the vulva.

When does the vulvar region begin to itch before menstruation?

Itching of the vulva before menstruation can begin a week or 1-2 days before them. In different women, its intensity varies from mild to unbearable. The cause of this condition is a combination of a decrease in the immunity of the vulva and vagina, an alkalization of the vaginal pH due to a change in the ratio of estrogen and progesterone, against which:

  • or manifest suppressed by the immune system fungal (mainly thrush), bacterial (especially gardnerellosis) or viral infections of the genital tract;
  • or hypersensitivity of the vulva to mechanical stimuli develops;
  • or hygiene rules are violated - from insufficient to excessive washing of the genitals.

If the genitals itch during pregnancy

The symptom that arose at this time may indicate a physiological phenomenon - an increase in blood supply and a slight swelling of the genitals, which causes itching. On the other hand, a decrease in immunity and a change in the level of the vaginal-vulvar pH provide an easier penetration of the infection here. Most often during pregnancy, thrush and genital herpes develop.

Itching while breastfeeding

After childbirth, there is a decrease in estrogen, and this causes dryness of the vulva and vagina, which causes discomfort.

After menopause

Itching of the vulva in old age is a very common phenomenon. It is caused by a decrease in the level of estrogen, as a result of which the mucous membrane of the vulva atrophies, connective tissue develops here. Itching with kraurosis can be unbearable and debilitating. It needs to be treated, and it is amenable to therapy, otherwise an infection gets into the wounds from scratching, which leads to an increase in the symptom and can cause complications from the internal reproductive organs.

In some cases, the cause of the symptom is never found.

Clinical picture

The characteristic symptomatology is noted in the inflammatory and allergic diseases listed above. The intensity and constancy of the symptom accompanies the senile itching of the vulva.

Most pathologies are accompanied by the appearance of secretions: light yellowish - with herpes, greenish - with trichomoniasis, grayish-white - with gardnerellosis, curdled - with candidiasis, abundant, liquid and yellow - with gonorrhea.

Itching of the vulva without discharge develops with:

  • lichen: sclerosing, flat;
  • genital psoriasis;
  • stress itch;
  • atopic eczema;
  • plasma cell vulvitis;
  • vulvar kraurose;
  • atrophic and adhesive vulvitis.

There is no discharge, but a burning sensation joins the main symptom when:

  • violation of the hygiene of the intimate zone;
  • injury to the vulvar region;
  • sperm intolerance;
  • allergies to detergents and bathing products;
  • diseases of the biliary tract and liver;
  • hypothyroidism;
  • diabetes.

Treatment

Vulvar itching is treated after determining its cause, for which you need to contact a gynecologist. The doctor will ask about when this sensation arose, with what the woman associates its appearance. He will definitely examine the genital area and take a swab from the vagina and urethra, which will help determine the nature of the inflammation, see atypical cells and signs of viral pathology.

If necessary, a bacterial culture from the vagina or a study of the vaginal contents by the PCR method will be prescribed. If the gynecologist does not see inflammatory changes or detects thrush, he will prescribe a consultation with an endocrinologist to rule out diabetes mellitus and disruption of the thyroid gland.

While the cause is at the stage of clarification, and also in cases where it is not detected, the following treatment is used:

  1. Adequate hygiene of the genital area: pH-neutral compounds or products containing lactic acid, herbal extracts, D-panthenol: Eplir, Gynocomfort, Epigen intim. Use these funds at least 2 times a day.
  2. Take sitz baths with decoctions of chamomile, calendula, string.
  3. Wash underwear by hand with baby soap.
  4. Adjust the diet by removing fried, canned foods, muffins and sweets from it.
  5. Lubricate the vulvar area with moisturizers: Vagilak-gel, Bliss, Gynofit gels.
  6. A mixture for rubbing from: carbolic acid 4.0 + acetic acid 15.0 + rectified alcohol 15.0 + Burow's liquid 20.0 + 2% solution helps well boric acid 200 ml.
  7. Take calcium pangamate (vitamin B15) 0.1 mg three times a day.

For the treatment of vulvar itching, ointments, suppositories, creams are prescribed:

  • for bacterial infections - containing antibiotics;
  • with genital herpes - with acyclovir;
  • with genital psoriasis, eczema, plasma cell vulvitis, sclerosing and flat lichen - with glucocorticoids;
  • with kraurosis - with estrogens.

It is necessary to stop using such drugs not when there is no itching (especially with infectious pathology), but after a time that the doctor will indicate.

If it turned out that the cause of the itching sensation is a disease of the internal or endocrine organs, then it is they who need to be treated. For this, the therapist or endocrinologist will prescribe the appropriate systemic drugs.

If the treatment of an internal disease has not eliminated the itching, or its cause has not been clarified, and the intensity of the symptom is extremely high, I resort to novocaine blockade of the pudendal nerve. In extremely severe cases, surgery to resect the pudendal nerves can be performed.

Itching of the labia is a specific skin reaction to an irritant that makes a woman want to scratch the itchy area. There can be many reasons for itching of the labia. You should not ignore them, as in some cases serious treatment may be required.

By itself, itching of the labia is not a separate disease, but only a symptom indicating trouble in the body.


The causes of itching in the labia include the following:

    The age of a woman is important in determining the cause of the itching. So, hormonal fluctuations in the body can occur during puberty, during pregnancy, during menstruation and in menopause and lead to itching.

    Itching during menstruation. Menstrual flow is a favorable environment for the development and reproduction of the bacterial flora. During this period, a woman's immunity becomes especially vulnerable to various external and internal factors. If, in addition to everything, the rules of intimate hygiene are not observed, then it is quite possible to develop an inflammatory process - vulvovaginitis. He becomes the cause of itching of the labia.

    Itching of the labia during pregnancy. The reason for the discomfort that has arisen most often lies in the hormonal changes that occur in the body. These fluctuations lead to a weakening of the immune defense, a change in the normal microflora of the vagina and the growth of pathogenic bacteria.

    Itching of the labia after the birth of a child. This discomfort is also associated with hormones. In order for the hormonal background to stabilize, it will take some time. The hormonal storm ends with the onset of menstruation. Until this time, there is an increased risk of developing various diseases of the genital organs, which may be accompanied by itching.

    Itching of labia during menopause. Violation of the trophism of the mucous membranes and skin of the vulva often occurs during menopause. Gynecologists call this process kraurosis. With this disease, itching becomes a rather serious symptom, causing a woman to experience severe discomfort. Often, against the background of kraurosis of the vulva, nervous disorders of varying degrees occur. A sharp drop in the body of female sex hormones, which previously had a protective effect on the mucous membranes of the genital organs, leads to kraurosis. Sometimes the disease is quite difficult, abrasions and cracks appear on the labia, followed by the formation of ulcers. The risk of developing infectious lesions increases, vulvitis and vulvovaginitis join.

    External factors which affects the occurrence of itching of the labia.

    Pollution. Most often, itching of the labia occurs in women working in industries with increased air pollution with dust.

    Failure to comply with the rules of intimate hygiene, rare and incorrect washing, a rare change of pads, the inability to take a shower.

    Exposure to low or high temperatures. Both overheating and hypothermia can provoke itching.

    mechanical impact. In this case, we are talking about wearing underwear made of synthetics, about its inconsistency with the size range, about the use of underwear with rough internal seams. In addition, too frequent washings, as well as vaginal douching without medical recommendations, can negatively affect. The use of scented sanitary pads can cause discomfort in the area of ​​the labia.

    Taking certain medications.

    Exposure to chemical compounds contained, for example, in condoms or contraceptive gels.

    Infectious diseases leading to the development of itching of the labia.

    Vaginal candidiasis caused by fungi, which, with a normal immune status, always exist in the mucous membranes of a woman's body. With a decrease in protective forces, their active reproduction occurs. Itching of the labia is one of the most striking symptoms of candidiasis. In addition, white curdled discharge, pain during an attempt to empty the bladder, during sex, etc., testify to the disease.

    Gardnerellosis. The disease develops due to the replacement of the normal microflora of the vagina with a pathogenic one. Itching and burning of the labia with this disease is always pronounced. In addition, the woman is concerned about the discharge, which has an unpleasant odor, reminiscent of the smell of a missing fish.

    Genital herpes is also one of possible causes occurrence of itching of the labia. In addition, rashes in the form of bubbles periodically appear on the genitals, which occurs during an exacerbation of the disease.

    With inguinal epidermophytosis there is a lesion of the skin of the labia, the appearance of pink spots on it with a center of inflammation. In this case, the inguinal zone itches, and the lesions peel off. Then, foci of inflammation are formed on the skin, which have clear red borders.

    Trichomoniasis is infectious disease leading to redness and itching of the labia. Discomfort occurs against the background of abundant yellow discharge with an unpleasant odor.

    Diseases of the reproductive system of a woman that can provoke itching of the labia. Sometimes the cause of itching of the labia is the pathology of the reproductive system of a woman. With endometritis and cervicitis, purulent discharge may appear, which will irritate the skin of the labia and cause itching. Although sometimes these diseases are asymptomatic.

    Itching of the labia in diabetes mellitus. Itching in the groin occurs due to the fact that the urine of a woman suffering from diabetes contains a lot of glucose. In addition, trips to the toilet become more frequent. The remnants of such secretions on the genitals lead to the fact that bacteria begin to multiply there faster, which provoke the occurrence of irritation and itching.

    Diseases of the liver that provoke itching of the labia. Severe liver damage can cause bile enzymes to accumulate in the blood and skin. In addition to giving the skin a yellowish tint, they also act as an irritant. As a result, a woman may experience itching all over her body, including in the area of ​​the labia.

    Diseases of the urinary system and itching of the labia. With pathologies of the bladder and kidneys, their functioning is disrupted. This contributes to the development of polyuria and the accumulation of urea breakdown products in the blood. These two factors act as irritants for the skin of the labia.

    Diseases of the hematopoietic organs, endocrine glands, tumors of the genital organs. All of these diseases lead to the immune system women begin to function worse. The decrease in protective forces leads to the multiplication of pathogenic microflora, which causes various diseases that provoke itching of the genital organs. Diseases of the endocrine glands can also cause hormonal failure.

    psychological reasons.

Prolonged stress, serious shocks, nervous disorders, depressive states can cause increased sensitivity of the skin. This, in turn, leads to itching on the body and in intimate places.

Treatment of itching of the labia in women


    To avoid the development of vulvovaginitis during menstruation, it is necessary to perform high-quality intimate hygiene. Gaskets should be changed after a maximum of 6 hours. The amount of menstrual flow does not matter. If the inflammation has already begun, then you should stop using tampons. Washing should be performed using antiseptic solutions, including: Miramistin, Furacilin, etc.

    If itching began to bother a woman during gestation, an obstetrician-gynecologist should be contacted and appropriate tests should be taken. It may be necessary to use medications aimed at normalizing the vaginal microflora and increasing the body's immune forces. Pregnant women are more often recommended treatment with local preparations - the use of intervaginal suppositories and ointments, washing with antiseptic solutions.

    When vulvitis or vulvovaginitis becomes the cause of itching, it is necessary to find out the reasons that led to the development of the disease. A woman will need to adhere to bed rest (in the acute phase of the disease), change the diet by increasing the number of alkalizing foods (milk, steamed vegetables, fresh fruits, mineral water). Local treatment is reduced to the use of medical antiseptics (Chinosol, Chlorhexidine, Miramistin), it is possible to lubricate the affected skin of the labia with ointments, for example, Sanguiritin 1%. Doctors also prescribe antibacterial ointments - tetracycline, erythromycin, oletherine. Inside, the reception of antimycotic agents (with fungal infection), antibiotics (with bacterial infection) is indicated. The choice of a particular drug depends on the type of pathogen and its sensitivity.

    Therapy of inguinal epidermophytosis is reduced to the implementation of lotions with a solution of Resocine and Silver Nitrate in the required concentration. It is possible to take antihistamines, treat affected areas with antifungal agents, for example, Lamisil, Nizoral, Mikoseptin, etc.

    To get rid of trichomoniasis, doctors prescribe Metronidazole or Trichopolum. The course of treatment can be a week or a single dose of 2 g can be recommended. The combination with local treatment makes it possible to fully get rid of the disease. To do this, use candles Terzhinan, Betadine, Klion-D and others. If the disease proceeds in a complicated form, then longer antimicrobial therapy will be required.

    If itching is caused by psychological disorders, then it is necessary to contact a psychotherapist, undergo an examination and take medications that this specialist will prescribe.

The rules of intimate hygiene are the same for all women:

    Washing after going to the toilet (movements should be from front to back);

    Change of underwear twice a day (girls younger age linen is changed more often - as it gets dirty);

    Thorough washing and rinsing of underwear, for which it is better to use hypoallergenic powders;

    Use soap for washing no more than once in 12 hours;

    Wearing underwear made from natural materials;

    Use only personal means for hygiene procedures.

In addition, at the time of treatment, you will need to refuse intimate life. Sometimes both partners will need to undergo a therapeutic course. In any case, if the itching of the labia does not go away after the normalization of the rules of intimate hygiene, it is necessary to consult a gynecologist, venereologist or dermatovenereologist.


Education: Diploma in Obstetrics and Gynecology obtained from the Russian State medical university Federal Agency for Health and Social Development (2010). In 2013, she completed her postgraduate studies at the NMU. N. I. Pirogov.

All women face sensitive issues intimate area. Sometimes their labia are very itchy, sore or flaky. These states should not be ignored.

Itching of the genitals can be caused by harmless causes: uncomfortable underwear or poor-quality products for the care of the intimate area. In other situations, burning confirms the presence of diseases (itching will be accompanied by other symptoms).

Why itchy labia

Conventionally, there are two main causes that cause itching. The first is safe for women's health. It is related to external factors. This is an irritation of delicate skin in response to low-quality things, underwear, depilation.

The second group - failures in the body. Itching is caused by gynecological pathologies, sexually transmitted diseases and diseases of the endocrine gland (diabetes mellitus).

Based on the pathology, in women, large (external) or small (internal) labia hurt and itch. In some cases, burning accompanies both those and other labia, as well as the vulva.

When Itching Is Safe

Often, burning is caused by extraneous factors that do not cause serious harm to health. In these cases, itching is not accompanied by any additional symptoms (for example: no uncharacteristic discharge or pain when urinating).

The main causes of burning include:

  • Unsuccessful - the outer labia not only itch, but can also swell. Sometimes burning sensation appears a few days after epilation. The hairs begin to grow back and irritate the delicate skin.
  • Poor-quality intimate area care products - if soap or gel causes an allergic reaction, they should be discarded and any antihistamine should be taken.
  • Synthetic underwear - wearing tight panties, frequent use of scented panty liners causes a similar reaction.
  • The outer labia swell during pregnancy - they fill with blood, swell and cause slight itching.

Burning can be a reaction of the body to stressful situations or manifest itself as an allergy to any irritant.

Diseases of the female organs

Vulvitis in diabetes mellitus

In this case, itching is one of the symptoms of gynecological diseases. The composition of the microflora of the vagina includes beneficial microorganisms and opportunistic pathogens. Under favorable conditions (decreased immunity), bacteria begin to multiply actively, causing itching.

Common diseases that cause burning include:

  • Vaginitis is a disease in which the lips and vagina become inflamed. It develops after an unsuccessful abortion, if the reproductive organs are injured, or as a result of a malfunction of the endocrine system. In women, abundant discharge with a pungent odor and impurities of pus is observed.
  • Thrush - vaginal candidiasis occurs due to the active reproduction of Candida fungi. The disease develops with a persistent decrease in immunity (for example: after the use of antibiotics). Thrush is accompanied by vivid symptoms: curdled discharge, severe itching (large and small lips itch), pain during and after sex, swelling and redness in the intimate area.
  • Vulvitis is an inflammation in which the upper labia swells. The infection is caused by staphylococci, streptococci or other microorganisms. The lips are red and itchy, women feel pain when emptying the bladder, plaque is noticeable inside the large lips.
  • Ganderellosis is a pathology that is characterized not only by burning, but also by discharge with a bright smell of rotten fish.
  • The acute period of endometriosis - this disease has an endocrine nature of occurrence, but during the period of exacerbation, patients complain that their genitals itch very much, spotting is possible.
  • Leukoplakia is a pathology accompanied by the appearance of white plaques on the genitals.
  • Bartholinitis - located next to the vagina. With its inflammation, the genitals suffer. The vagina, lips and clitoris become red and swollen. Purulent sores appear on the vulva. Urination is also possible.

Venereal diseases

Itching accompanies most sexually transmitted diseases. Some of them are transmitted only sexually, while others can be infected, even using the patient's personal belongings.

Treatment of sexually transmitted diseases is prescribed only by a doctor (venereologist or gynecologist). Self-treatment will aggravate the condition and may lead to infertility.

Trichomoniasis and gonorrhea

A strong burning sensation is accompanied by copious discharge with serous-purulent contents and a pungent odor. In women, the labia, vulva and even the urethra hurt and swell.

Chlamydia

The disease can be transmitted by household means. Additional symptoms: in women, the lower abdomen and perineum hurt, the amount of discharge increases greatly. Itching begins after urination and intercourse. Similar symptoms are observed with ureaplasmosis.

Genital herpes

Pathology is chronic, aggravated by any decrease in immunity, even during allergies. Small pimples with purulent contents form on the skin in the intimate area. Papules burst and then peel off a little.

Pediculosis

When unpleasant symptoms see a gynecologist. After the diagnosis is made, he will tell you how to treat the disease. The treatment regimen is individual, depending on what microorganisms caused the disease, the general condition of the woman, contraindications and a number of other factors.

Most STDs are treated with penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics. After recovery, itching and other symptoms disappear.

For the treatment of gynecological diseases, suppositories, creams or other topical therapies are usually used. Sometimes doctors recommend that patients drink antifungal tablets (for example: Fluconazole, Itraconazole). After treatment, the microflora of the vagina and intestines should be restored with the help of probiotics.

The scheme of treatment of endocrine diseases is prescribed by the endocrinologist, based on the general well-being of the patient, the form of the disease.

During therapy, you should not have sex, exclude alcohol and stick to a diet: limit fried, spicy and fatty foods, pastries and sweets.

Preventive measures

Prevention will help reduce the risk of itching of the labia. However, this is not a panacea; in rare cases, these measures are powerless.

The main preventive measures include:

  • wearing linen made from natural materials (linen or cotton). Even if you wear lace panties, the gusset should be made of cotton;
  • follow the rules of personal hygiene, but do not overdo it with the use of care products, they can cause irritation;
  • use barrier methods of contraception, especially when having sex with a casual or unfamiliar partner;
  • strengthen immunity: balance the diet, regularly drink the mineral-vitamin complex, eliminate bad habits.

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