What should I do if I experience itching during my menstrual period?
Menstrual period refers to the time during menstruation, and "below" refers to the genital area. In general, genital itching during menstruation may be related to unsuitable sanitary pad materials or failure to change them in time, improper local hygiene, vulvar eczema, vulvitis, vaginitis, and other causes. It is recommended to seek medical attention at a hospital and receive targeted treatment based on the specific cause. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Unsuitable sanitary pad material or failure to change in time: Low-quality sanitary pads—such as those that are non-breathable or contain allergens—or prolonged use without timely replacement can irritate the skin of the genital area, causing itching, possibly accompanied by mild redness, swelling, or discomfort. It is recommended to switch to cotton, breathable sanitary pads, change them regularly, and maintain cleanliness and dryness of the external genital area.
2. Improper local hygiene: During menstruation, increased menstrual blood and secretions may lead to bacterial growth if not cleaned promptly or thoroughly, resulting in vulvitis. Symptoms may include itching, odor, and increased vaginal discharge. It is recommended to wash the vulva daily with warm water and avoid using irritating chemical products.
3. Vulvar eczema: Vulvar eczema may be associated with friction, moist environments, or allergic reactions, leading to inflammation of the vulvar skin, manifesting as red patches, papules, and accompanying itching. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets, ebastine tablets, or compound acetic acid dexamethasone cream.
4. Vulvitis: Bacterial or fungal infections may cause vulvitis, leading to symptoms such as vulvar swelling, itching, burning sensation, increased vaginal discharge, and odor. Patients are advised to use medications such as An'ar Feminine Cleanser, miconazole nitrate suppositories, or clotrimazole suppositories under medical guidance to relieve symptoms.
5. Vaginitis: Bacterial or fungal infections may also cause vaginitis. In addition to itching, symptoms may include increased vaginal discharge, changes in discharge characteristics, odor, and painful urination. Patients should use medications such as Baofukang suppositories, miconazole suppositories, or Kangfu ointment as directed by a physician to aid recovery.
In daily life, it's important to develop good living habits and engage in moderate exercise, such as jogging or hiking, which benefits overall health.