Andrea Thompson, advocacy and engagement manager at Marie Stopes South Africa, says there are several causes of vaginal itching. “But without checking with a doctor, the sources can be misinterpreted, so make an appointment if symptoms last longer than a few days.”
Here are some possible causes:
1. Thrush
Thrush is an overgrowth of yeast organisms. There are many causes – antibiotics, sex, stress, diet or fluctuating pH-levels. It’s usually accompanied by a white, odourless discharge.
Fix it: It’s easily cured with an over the counter pill or cream. Start taking a probiotic to help keep yeast in check.
2. Allergies
Some women are sensitive to laundry detergents, soaps (particularly those with strong scents), sanitary towels, panty liners and tampons, says Thompson. If the itching occurs after sexual intercourse, it could be a latex allergy.
Fix it: Use unscented or hypo-allergenic products. You can take an over-the-counter antihistamine to relieve symptoms.
3. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Itching is a symptom of several STIs, including chlamydia, herpes, trichomoniasis, pubic lice and gonorrhoea. “If you’re sexually active, you should get a regular STI screening even if you don’t have any problems, since many STIs don't have symptoms,” says Thompson.
Fix it: Here, prevention in the form of condoms is the best cure.
4. Bacterial vaginosis (BV)
BV is caused by an imbalance in healthy bacteria and a change in vaginal pH, and is accompanied by a white, yellow or green discharge.
Fix it: BV can be treated with an over-the-counter cream. It’s often caused by bacteria transferred from the anus, so remember to wipe from front to back.
5. Hormones
When your hormone levels change, vaginal itching can follow. This could happen during pregnancy, menopause, with contraception use, or even during your normal monthly cycle.
Fix it: Talk to your doctor. You could start using contraception or topical hormones, or switch to a different type to balance things out.
6. Skin diseases
Lichen sclerosis causes white spots or depigmentation of the skin around the vagina, while genetic skin disorders like eczema or psoriasis can cause redness, itching, dry skin or a rash.
Fix it: These conditions are chronic, but can be managed with prescription creams.
How Clicks Clinics can help you
Did you know Clicks offers screenings and HIV testing and counselling at our clinics? To make an appointment call 0860 254 257 or book online at Clicks Clinics online.
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