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If you were to rank the worst possible places to have an itch, I’m pretty sure an itchy vagina would be right up there in the top three. It’s not exactly the most convenient itch to scratch and it can leave you feeling like you’ve legit got ants in your pants.
Not to mention, its really hard to scratch down there!
But what are the possible reasons that you may be experiencing thunder for down under? Well, like many things relating to the human body, the answer can be a bit complicated. Here are a few reasons you might have an itchy vagina…
Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a red itchy rash that occurs when your skin has come in contact with a substance that causes an allergic reaction. So, if you’ve recently changed your detergent that might be the reason why your vag is not so happy.
There are many things that are causing you some itchiness:
1. scented pads
2. lubricants and spermicides
3. latex
4. tight underwear and jeans
5. scented toilet paper
6. shampoos and body washes
It may prove difficult to find the exact cause of your contact dermatitis but if you’re able to find the offending substance then your itchiness should clear up in no time.
READ MORE: 10 reasons you’ve got bumps on your vagina
Bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis AKA “BV” for short, is caused by an overgrowth of ‘bad’ bacteria. Anyone with a vagina is at risk of getting BV, whether they’ve had sex or not. Some symptoms include
1. vaginal itch
2. thin white, grey, or green vaginal discharge
3. a foul, fishy vaginal odour
4. burning during urination
If left untreated, BV can cause pelvic inflammatory disease which can cause infertility and other health complications. The great news is the BV is treatable! Your doctor can prescribe antibiotics, and over the counter creams are available.
READ MORE: Seriously though, what should your vagina really smell like?
Hormone changes
During menopause, pregnancy, menstruation and while you’re on the pill, your hormones fluctuate leading which can cause your vagina to become irritated. When it comes to your period, be sure to check what products you are using.
Your pads and tampons may be causing some irritation. If it is your sanitary ware, try switching to more organic products, menstrual cup or the unscented variety.
If your birth control seems to be causing the problem, have a chat with your doctor about finding a better option for you.
READ MORE: Should you really be grooming your vagina? here’s what the experts say
Shaving
While shaving gives you that baby soft feel, it can leave you feeling bumpy and itchy. Shaving can cause your follicles to become irritated which leads to that incessant itching. Removing hair from an area as sensitive as your vulva can be tricky, and if done incorrectly can lead to razor burn.
If razor burn is a something that happens to you often, maybe it’s time to take a bit of a break and let your skin heal. When it comes to shaving, be sure that you never do it dry, always shave against the growth and use a cooling gel (like aloe vera) to help soothe the skin.
This article was originally published on Women's Health.
