Why does itching still occur if the routine vaginal discharge test is normal?
I went to the hospital for a gynecological examination, and the routine vaginal discharge test results were normal. However, I still feel some itching "down there," without any other abnormalities. Why is this happening?
Doctor's answer (1)
Itching may still occur despite normal routine vaginal discharge tests, which could be caused by stress, hormonal changes, allergies, diseases, etc.
Stress and anxiety can sometimes manifest as physical symptoms, including vaginal itching. Additionally, changes in estrogen levels may lead to an imbalance in vaginal pH, increasing the opportunity for pathogenic bacteria to grow, causing vaginitis and associated itching. Hormonal fluctuations during physiological stages such as pregnancy, menstrual cycles, and menopause can also affect the vaginal environment and cause itching.
Hygiene products containing fragrances or chemicals, such as shower gels and sanitary liners, may cause local skin irritation and allergic reactions. Although vaginal discharge tests appear normal, conditions such as vulvitis, genital eczema, pubic lice infestation, and vulvovaginal candidiasis can also cause itching. These conditions may not affect vaginal discharge, so routine vaginal discharge tests may show normal results.
Patients should avoid self-medication and seek timely medical attention. A thorough medical history, physical examination, and necessary laboratory tests, such as vaginal secretion culture and blood tests, should be conducted to determine the cause and provide targeted treatment.
