What causes itching before menstruation?

Jul 16, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

In general, itching in the genital area before menstruation may be caused by hormonal changes, poor hygiene, vulvar eczema, fungal vaginitis, trichomoniasis, or other similar conditions. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. In daily life, it is important to maintain a regular routine and enhance physical immunity; avoid the misuse of antibiotics to prevent imbalance of the vaginal flora.

Generally, itching in the genital area before menstruation may be caused by hormonal changes, poor hygiene habits, vulvar eczema, fungal vaginitis, trichomonas vaginitis, and other reasons. If discomfort occurs, timely medical attention is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Hormonal Changes

Before menstruation, estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate significantly, which may lead to increased vaginal discharge. If the discharge continuously irritates the skin of the vulva, itching may occur. It is important to maintain vulvar hygiene by washing with warm water regularly, changing cotton underwear that is breathable frequently, and avoiding tight synthetic undergarments to reduce local heat and friction.

2. Poor Hygiene Habits

If the vulva is not cleaned timely before menstruation or sanitary products with poor breathability are used, secretions and sweat may accumulate locally, promoting bacterial growth and causing itching. Choose reputable brands of sanitary products with good breathability, wash the vulva daily with running warm water, and dry it promptly to keep the vulva dry.

3. Vulvar Eczema

Before menstruation, the body's resistance is relatively low. If the vulva remains in a moist environment for a long time, vulvar eczema may develop, presenting with symptoms such as itching, redness, and rashes on the vulvar skin. Under a doctor's guidance, topical medications like zinc oxide ointment, hydrocortisone butyrate cream, or tacrolimus ointment can be used to relieve symptoms. Scratching the vulva should be avoided, and spicy or irritating foods should be excluded from the diet.

4. Fungal Vaginitis

Before menstruation, the vaginal pH may change easily, allowing Candida to multiply rapidly and cause fungal vaginitis, with symptoms such as vulvar itching and curd-like discharge. Under a doctor's guidance, antifungal medications such as clotrimazole suppositories, miconazole nitrate suppositories, or fluconazole capsules should be used. Sexual activity should be avoided during treatment, and underwear should be scalded with boiling water and then sun-dried.

5. Trichomonas Vaginitis

Trichomonas vaginitis is caused by infection with Trichomonas vaginalis. Changes in the vaginal environment before menstruation may worsen the infection, leading to symptoms such as vulvar itching and frothy yellow-green discharge. It is contagious. Under a doctor's guidance, anti-trichomonal medications such as metronidazole suppositories, tinidazole tablets, or ornidazole capsules should be used. Sexual partners should also be treated simultaneously to avoid cross-infection.

In daily life, maintaining regular作息, enhancing physical immunity, and avoiding the abuse of antibiotics to prevent vaginal flora imbalance are important. If itching persists without relief or is accompanied by abnormal discharge, pain, or other symptoms, timely medical consultation and examination are necessary.

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