Why does itching occur in the genital area during menstruation?

Women experience menstruation every month, which is a normal physiological process. However, many women dread their periods—primarily because of severe abdominal pain during those days, commonly known as dysmenorrhea. There are numerous precautions to observe during menstruation. For instance, some women experience itching in the genital area during their period; what could cause this?

What Causes Genital Itching During Menstruation?

If a woman experiences genital itching during her period, inflammation should be considered as a possible cause. Additionally, contact dermatitis triggered by sanitary pad use during menstruation must be ruled out. Clinically, contact dermatitis typically causes itching localized to the areas directly in contact with the sanitary pad—or within the pad’s coverage area—but usually does not involve vaginal itching. On physical examination, the vulvar skin appears red and swollen, with sharply defined borders. If contact dermatitis is excluded, vaginitis may be the underlying cause. Women experiencing genital itching during menstruation should seek medical evaluation at a hospital for accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.

If vulvar itching, redness, and rash occur due to irritation from sanitary pads used during menstruation, oral antihistamines may be prescribed for anti-allergic therapy. A soothing emollient may also be applied to cleanse the vulva and relieve itching. However, if only mild itching is present without visible redness or rash, inadequate breathability of the sanitary pad is likely responsible; increasing the frequency of pad changes may alleviate symptoms. Poor-quality menstrual hygiene products can provoke allergic reactions leading to vulvar itching. Furthermore, failure to change sanitary pads promptly during menstruation may result in localized itching caused by prolonged moisture exposure.

Women are advised to maintain good personal hygiene during menstruation, follow a light diet, avoid raw, cold, spicy, or otherwise irritating foods, refrain from staying up late, and cultivate healthy lifestyle habits. We hope this information proves helpful.