What causes vaginal itching in women, and what should be done?
Sep 16, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, the main causes of female genital itching include improper cleaning methods, environmental irritation, vulvovaginal candidiasis, trichomonas vaginitis, and squamous cell hyperplasia of the vulva. Patients can choose from general treatment, drug therapy, or physical therapy to alleviate symptoms. In daily life, it is important to maintain genital cleanliness and dryness and to use gentle cleaning methods.
Generally, the main causes of female genital itching include improper cleaning methods, environmental irritation, vulvovaginal candidiasis, trichomonas vaginitis, and squamous cell hyperplasia of the vulva. Patients can choose general treatment, medication, or physical therapies to improve symptoms. Specific explanations are as follows:
1. Improper Cleaning Methods
Excessive cleaning or using alkaline cleaning products can damage the genital mucosal barrier; conversely, inadequate cleaning may lead to accumulation of secretions that irritate the skin and cause itching. Wash the vulva daily with warm water without douching the vagina, avoid irritating products such as soap or shower gel, and change underwear frequently to keep the area dry.
2. Environmental Irritation
Wearing tight, non-breathable synthetic underwear or prolonged use of non-breathable sanitary products can cause dampness and heat in the genital area, promoting bacterial growth and resulting in itching. Switch to loose-fitting cotton underwear, choose breathable sanitary products and change them promptly, avoid prolonged sitting, and maintain good ventilation in the genital area.
Overgrowth of Candida can invade the vaginal mucosa, causing inflammation and genital itching, often accompanied by white, curd-like discharge. Under medical guidance, medications such as clotrimazole suppositories, miconazole nitrate suppositories, or fluconazole capsules may be used. Avoid sexual activity during treatment, and wash and disinfect personal items separately.
4. Trichomonas Vaginitis
Infection of the vagina by Trichomonas vaginalis disrupts the vaginal microenvironment, irritating the mucosa and causing itching, along with yellow-green frothy discharge and odor. Under medical guidance, medications such as metronidazole tablets, tinidazole tablets, or metronidazole vaginal effervescent tablets may be used. Sexual partners should also be treated simultaneously to prevent cross-infection.
5. Squamous Cell Hyperplasia of the Vulva
Long-term irritation of the vulvar mucosa can lead to abnormal proliferation of squamous epithelium, increasing nerve sensitivity and causing severe itching. Over time, this may lead to thickening of the skin and pigmentation. Under medical guidance, medications such as hydrocortisone cream, mometasone furoate cream, or tacrolimus ointment may be used. In severe cases, focused ultrasound therapy for the vulva may be required. Postoperative care includes maintaining vulvar cleanliness and avoiding friction.
In daily life, maintain genital cleanliness and dryness, choose gentle cleaning methods, wear breathable clothing to reduce environmental irritation, undergo regular gynecological checkups for early detection of abnormalities, and avoid unhygienic sexual practices to reduce infection risks.
