Why does itching occur down there for a few days every month?
Sep 09, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
The following refers to the vulva. Itching of the vulva for several days each month may be caused by hormonal changes, allergies, bacterial vaginosis, vulvovaginal candidiasis, vulvar eczema, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital, complete relevant examinations, and determine the underlying cause. Treatment should then be carried out under a doctor's guidance based on the specific diagnosis. During treatment, proper local hygiene should be maintained to prevent infection and worsening of the existing condition.
The following refers to the vulva. Itching of the vulva for several days each month may be caused by hormonal changes, allergies, bacterial vaginosis, vulvovaginal candidiasis, vulvar eczema, or other reasons.
1. Hormonal Changes
During menstruation, fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels may irritate the vulvar skin, causing dryness and itching. This is a normal physiological phenomenon and usually resolves after the menstrual period ends.
2. Allergy
The vulvar skin may be allergic to the materials in sanitary pads or underwear, resulting in an allergic reaction that may be accompanied by redness, swelling, and a burning sensation. Antiallergic medications such as loratadine tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, or diphenhydramine hydrochloride tablets may be used under medical guidance.
3. Bacterial Vaginosis
Poor personal hygiene during menstruation may allow bacteria to enter the vaginal area, causing an inflammatory response in the vagina and leading to symptoms such as vulvar itching, abnormal vaginal discharge odor, and pain during intercourse. Treatment under a doctor's supervision may include metronidazole tablets, tinidazole tablets, or levofloxacin capsules, which help inhibit bacterial replication.
4. Vulvovaginal Candidiasis
Infection with Candida can lead to overgrowth of yeast in the vagina, altering the vaginal pH and causing symptoms such as curd-like vaginal discharge, itching, and painful urination. Under medical guidance, sodium bicarbonate may be used to rinse the vagina, or antifungal medications such as clotrimazole suppositories, metronidazole suppositories, or tinidazole suppositories may be prescribed to treat the infection.
5. Vulvar Eczema
Vulvar eczema may cause local inflammation, stimulating nerve endings and resulting in symptoms such as vulvar itching, papules, and blisters. Under a doctor’s recommendation, topical treatments such as hydrocortisone butyrate cream, desonide cream, or tacrolimus ointment may be used to reduce inflammation and relieve itching.
It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation, complete relevant examinations, identify the underlying cause, and receive targeted treatment under medical supervision. Maintaining good local hygiene during treatment is essential to prevent infections and worsening of the condition.
