What causes itching down there?

Itching in the lower area usually refers to itching in the genital region. In most cases, genital itching may be caused by hormonal changes, dry skin, bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis (yeast infection), prostatitis, and other conditions. If abnormalities occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Hormonal Changes

Women may experience fluctuations in hormone levels during physiological stages such as the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause. These changes can affect sebum production and disrupt the pH balance of the vagina, altering the local environment and making the genital area more susceptible to infections or irritation, leading to itching. Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, a balanced diet, moderate exercise, and stress reduction can help.

2. Dry Skin

Dry climate or poor personal moisturizing habits can lead to dryness of the skin in the genital area. When the skin’s protective barrier is compromised, it becomes more vulnerable to external irritants, causing itching. Friction or wearing clothing made of irritating materials can further exacerbate dryness and discomfort. Keep the genital area clean and dry, use mild, non-irritating cleansers, wear breathable cotton underwear, and avoid using soap or shower gel directly on the genital area.

3. Bacterial Vaginosis

This condition results from an imbalance of vaginal flora, where bacterial overgrowth leads to increased vaginal discharge, often accompanied by odor and itching. Symptoms may include excessive discharge that appears grayish-white or yellow with a fishy smell. Treatment should be guided by a physician and may include vaginal medications such as metronidazole suppositories or miconazole nitrate vaginal soft capsules, or oral medications like tinidazole tablets.

4. Candidiasis (Yeast Infection)

Poor hygiene in the genital area may allow Candida fungi to grow and multiply, triggering inflammation and itching. Additional symptoms may include redness, swelling, and abnormal discharge. Under medical guidance, antifungal treatments such as clotrimazole cream or ketoconazole cream can be applied topically, and oral antifungals such as itraconazole capsules or terbinafine hydrochloride tablets may be prescribed. It is also important to keep the genital area clean and dry and avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing.

5. Prostatitis

Prostatitis is associated with bacterial infection, excessive sexual activity, and other factors. Inflammation of the prostate can irritate the urethra and genital organs, causing itching and discomfort. Common accompanying symptoms include frequent urination, urgency, painful urination, and lower abdominal pain. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include antibiotics such as levofloxacin tablets, ciprofloxacin hydrochloride tablets, or faropenem sodium tablets.

In daily life, it is important to take preventive measures—maintain proper hygiene while avoiding over-cleaning—to reduce the risk of infection.