Severe itching and burning in the vaginal area is a major health problem that is seen in women of all ages, but many are reluctant to talk about it to others and keep it inside. Since the skin of the vagina is very sensitive, even a minor infection or the presence of chemicals can cause severe discomfort. Many people ignore it, thinking that it is due to normal dirt. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind vaginal itching:
Yeast Infection / Candidiasis: The most important scientific reason for vaginal itching is a fungus of the genus Candida (Candida albicans). This fungus is naturally present in small amounts in the vagina of women. However, when diabetes increases, excessive intake of antibiotic pills, or a decrease in immunity, this fungus multiplies rapidly. This causes severe itching and a white discharge that looks like curd.
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): This is a condition in which the amount of good bacteria (Lactobacillus) naturally found in the vagina decreases and bad bacteria multiply in large numbers. This disrupts the natural pH balance of the vagina. The main symptom is a gray or white discharge with a fishy odor along with severe itching.
Chemical Irritants / Contact Dermatitis: Harmful chemicals in many products we use daily can cause allergies to the skin in the vagina. Perfumed soaps, body washes, vaginal washes, underwear washed with strong detergents, and perfumed sanitary pads are the main culprits that cause severe itching and redness on the skin.
Menopause and hormonal deficiency (Vaginal Atrophy): In women who have gone through menopause at an older age, the level of the female hormone estrogen in the body decreases sharply. When estrogen decreases, the skin in the vagina becomes very dry and its thickness decreases (Vaginal Atrophy). Due to this dryness, chronic severe itching and burning during urination are experienced.
Sexually transmitted diseases and infections (STIs): Sexually transmitted diseases such as trichomoniasis, chlamydia, and genital herpes, which are transmitted through unprotected sex, can cause severe vaginal itching. Trichomoniasis can cause a green or yellow, pus-filled discharge with a strong odor. Skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema in the vaginal area can also increase itching.
