Itching of the skin (in the groin, vagina, anus) - treatment and cause. Causes of itching in the vagina without discharge

Itching in the vagina without discharge can bother women from adolescence to old age. In a healthy state of the vagina, itching is absent. If these symptoms appear, you should seek specialized medical help for a diagnostic examination.

Itching in the vagina without discharge, burning and discomfort in the intimate area are characteristic signs of the pathology of both the functional state of tissue cells and organs of the reproductive system, and the whole organism. The necessary medical procedures to eliminate pathological symptoms should begin after determining the nature of its development. Unpleasant sensations in the vagina can cause various physiological processes. In the period of approaching old age, the gonads of women change their activity.

This phenomenon is called a climax. During this process, the hormonal background of the body changes greatly, uterine bleeding stops - menstruation, the sex glands cease to form eggs and produce a secret. Because of this, the mucous membrane dries up and itching begins. Allergic reactions may occur as a result of the use of various personal care products. Tight underwear, sanitary napkins and tampons, cosmetics sometimes cause itching in the vagina.

Eliminating the irritant will help get rid of problems:

• Diabetes is a disease that affects the amount of the hormone insulin. Pathology can provoke a negative reaction of the body. Among the adverse symptoms is a burning sensation in the groin.
• It is important to properly monitor the hygiene of the intimate area. Insufficient or excessive care can cause redness and itching of the vagina.
• Due to trauma to the genital organs: violations in the structure of the mucous membrane or skin of the vagina, discomfort also appears in the genital area.

Exposure to external stimuli can provoke itching at the entrance to the vagina without discharge:

• Linen. The use of underwear made of synthetic fabric of small size injures the skin and mucous membranes of the genital organs.
• Temperature changes. A sharp decrease or increase in the degree of air reduces the membrane function of the vagina.
• Means of intimate hygiene. The use of poor-quality or inappropriate hygiene products causes sensitization.
• Incorrectly selected medicines and contraceptives, as well as individual hygiene preparations, cause irritation.

Gynecological pathologies are characterized by severe inflammation. Because of this, itching begins in the vaginal cavity. Cervititis is an inflammation of the cervix. In addition to burning in the vagina, this pathology causes cloudy discharge and pain in the lower abdomen, which appear when going to the toilet and having sex.

Four pathogenic bacteria are dangerous for the vaginal microflora. Staphylococcus aureus, streptococcus, gonococcus and E. coli destroy the mucous lining the uterine cavity. Inflammation of this part of the body is called endometritis.

When urinating, burning increases and redness of the external organs of the vagina occurs. This pathology is called urethritis.

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Age-related changes in the external genital organs lead to chronic depletion of the skin and mucous membrane of the vulva. This leads to dryness, sensitivity disorders, pain in the pelvic area, narrowing of the blood vessels of the vagina, itching in the vagina without discharge and gives rise to the development of vulvar kraurosis.

With age, the genitals of a woman atrophy, the glands stop producing a secret, this leads to dryness in the groin area and causes discomfort. The consequence of gynecological and urological operations is often a urogenital fistula. Among its symptoms is itching in the intimate area. Cancerous and benign tumors of the vagina, uterus and cervix are accompanied by unpleasant symptoms.

An allergic reaction to seminal fluid causes vaginal redness and a burning sensation. As a rule, allergic reactions in a woman appear only in relation to one partner, in other cases there can be no such symptoms.

Severe itching in the vagina - how to deal with the disease

Severe itching in the vagina can cause infections transmitted through sexual contact.

Thrush/candidiasis- an infectious-inflammatory process, the cause of which is the yeast-like fungus Candida. The disease is divided into two stages: acute and chronic.

The latter, most often, is called recurrent. A characteristic symptom of thrush is a curdled discharge of white color.

vaginitis and colpitis The causative agent is the bacterium Gardnerella. Characteristic signs of the disease are abundant gray or green discharge, accompanied by an unpleasant odor resembling rotten fish. In the internal environment of the vagina, its own microflora is formed, accompanied by an inflammatory process.

Genital herpes- an infectious disease generated by herpes of the second category. The most common way of transmission of the disease is sexual contact, and herpes manifests itself as a rash with ulcers.

Chlamydia- Spread by chlamydia containing the pathogen. The course of the disease has mild symptoms and slight itching in the genital area.

Helminthiasis- helminths provoke severe itching in the vagina (pubic lice).

Fungal pathologies- accompanied by yellow-green frothy discharge.

The most common sexually transmitted diseases are:

1. Gonorrhea is an inflammation in the vagina, cervix, or urethra with characteristic itching and frequent urination. Such a venereal disease provokes Neyser's gonococcus.
2. Syphilis is a dangerous disease caused by Treponema pallidum. The disease proceeds in three clearly measured stages.
3. Lymphogranuloma - the first manifestation of the disease is a small tubercle or vesicle, which after a certain time either disappears or appears.
4. A venereal ulcer is a soft chancre.

Also, redness of the vagina and itching can cause extragenital disorders:

• Disturbed work of the central nervous system (central) or PNS (peripheral).
• Pathological changes in the functioning of the thyroid gland, kidneys or liver. Due to such disorders, the chemical composition of bile changes, the ovaries function poorly, along with the hormonal background.
• Problems with digestion and further changes in the microflora of the vagina. In relation to the digestive tract, pathology is distinguished as hemorrhoids, anal fissure, dysbacteriosis and proctitis.
• Anemia, leukemia, hematogenous pathology.
• Cystitis.
• Diabetes.

If the vagina itches due to severe itching, you will need to take medications, including vaginal suppositories, various tinctures, solutions or tablets.

As a preventive measure, doctors recommend using an appropriate ointment or cream. Miconazole together with Clotrimazole have great popularity and the most effective effect. Antipruritic agents prepared at home also have a very successful effect. These include tea tree oil - a cotton swab is placed in such oil, which is then inserted into the vagina for 6 hours. Rubbing solution also helps - a popular composition is mixed glycerin and borax. They wipe the genitals from the outside and the crotch area.

It is not bad to use douching - it is a solution of soda and salt, with which itchy places are rubbed. For cooking, you need to take one teaspoon of table salt and baking soda per half liter of water. Or buy Chlorhexidine and Miramistin at the pharmacy - the most effective drug.

Drug treatment is prescribed only after visiting a gynecologist, but most women resort to traditional medicine:

1. Pharmacy chamomile, sage, St. John's wort, juniper.
2. Kalina tincture.
3. Honey - used in a melted state, as an ointment.

The presence of itching in the vagina does not portend danger, however, it is necessary to observe intimate hygiene and eliminate the cause of unpleasant phenomena. It is not recommended to resort to self-medication and douching without the advice of specialists.

Almost every woman may be faced with a situation where discomfort occurs in the vulva, expressed in itching, burning or dryness. The reasons for this phenomenon can be completely different. Sometimes itching or burning is an informative symptom of an illness, such as an allergic reaction or a sexually transmitted infection. As a rule, treatment is aimed at eliminating the cause, after which the discomfort disappears on its own.

In addition to the disease, there are reasons that have nothing to do with it.

Associated symptoms

In a healthy woman, vaginal mucus serves to moisturize the walls of the vagina, which prevents dryness and discomfort. In addition, it is a natural defense of the body against the penetration of pathogenic bacteria, as well as a barrier to their spread. If there are any malfunctions in the process of producing this mucus, in addition to discomfort, problems may arise in sexual life, since sexual intercourse becomes painful.

In addition to itching, burning and dryness, the following may additionally appear:

• pain during intercourse;
• tingling;
• feeling of pressure or;
• yellow-green discharge;
• frequent urge to urinate.

Causes of itching and burning, not associated with the disease

Such discomfort can occur due to:

• ignoring the rules of intimate hygiene (every girl should remember that in order to maintain health, it is necessary to carry out daily water procedures of the external genital organs and change underwear);
• use of synthetic underwear;
• allergies to soap or shower gel, pads, tampons and other intimate hygiene products.

To get rid of discomfort in the genital area, it is recommended to eliminate the cause of their appearance. However, if this did not help, then itching, burning or dryness was provoked by the disease.

If itching and burning are accompanied by discharge

If atypical discharges are added to these unpleasant sensations, then there is definitely an infection in the body that is actively spreading. Normally, vaginal discharge occurs, but there is no discomfort. If they have changed their color and other external characteristics, it is necessary to consult a gynecologist as soon as possible for advice. Itching, burning, dryness in the intimate area can signal pathological processes in the female body and the presence of a disease of the genitourinary system.

There are several diseases, the main symptoms of which are itching, burning and white discharge.

Candidiasis

The cause of the disease is the fungus Candida. Normally, it is in the vagina of every woman, but the balance of good and bad bacteria does not allow it to actively multiply. But in the presence of certain factors, this balance is disturbed, and infection occurs. These factors are:

• long-term antibiotic treatment;
• sexual partner initiation;
• decreased immunity as a result of another disease;
• hormonal disorders;
• diabetes.

In addition to itching and burning, the following symptoms are present:

• curdled discharge;
• sour smell;
• pain during urination.

In this case, the treatment of dryness and burning in the intimate area requires the use of antibacterial agents. Their action is aimed at neutralizing and destroying the fungus - the main culprit of the disease. Antibiotics against candidiasis are available in the form of suppositories, tablets and ointments. The main rule is that both sexual partners should undergo treatment.

Bacterial vaginosis

This disease is characterized by an imbalance in the bacterial balance in the vagina, in which the number of bad microorganisms increases dramatically. This is the main cause of infectious inflammation, or bacterial vaginosis. In addition to itching and burning, there appears which cannot be eliminated even by frequent water procedures, and atypical discharge (usually white, rarely grayish or greenish, stretching, thick).

The causes of this disease are:

• long-term use of antibiotics;
• use of spermicides;
• taking oral contraceptives;
• hormonal imbalance (appears during pregnancy or menopause).

Treatment is carried out only after diagnosis, the purpose of which is to determine the type of bacteria that provoked the imbalance. Only then is antimicrobial therapy carried out.

Genital herpes

In this case, in addition to itching and burning, a small rash appears, which is small blisters, inside of which there is a yellowish content. After these bubbles open, erosions form, which give a burning sensation.

This disease is transmitted sexually. In many cases, the patient is unaware of the infection, because immunity does not allow the infection to spread. However, with a decrease in the functions of the immune infection, the herpes virus is activated. The danger of the disease lies in constant relapses, as well as asymptomatic course. In addition, the disease carries a danger for the embryo, but only if the expectant mother was infected during pregnancy for the first time.

Itching during pregnancy

There is dryness and burning in the intimate area and during pregnancy. This happens due to violations of the hormonal background of a woman and a decrease in overall immunity. This helps to increase vaginal secretion, as well as the activation of pathogenic bacteria. In addition, if there were causative agents of thrush or other fungal diseases in the woman's body before pregnancy, the itching becomes quite strong and brings discomfort to everyday life. You should not self-medicate in this case and make your own diagnoses, even if you are confident in it. During pregnancy, all appointments should be carried out by a doctor based on the examination. Self-medication is unacceptable.

In addition, you can protect yourself and your unborn baby if you prevent the possibility of spreading the infection even before pregnancy and take a course of preventive treatment in advance.

Discomfort after childbirth

This problem, namely dryness in the intimate area, is one of the most common in young mothers. This is due to hormonal disorders in the body, so it is enough just to wait a while for the body to return to its prenatal state. Vaginal dryness is caused by a significant decrease in estrogen, which was many times greater during pregnancy.

Within six weeks after giving birth, doctors do not recommend having sex, because the wounds need to heal completely. You can help with this by lubricating with vitamin A, which helps to accelerate regeneration and increase hydration. If the scar is tactile, it can be lubricated with olive oil. If symptoms, including itching and dryness, persist for several months, a gynecologist should be consulted. You may need plastic surgery to smooth out the scar.

Why there is discomfort during menstruation

Statistics say that every woman felt itching in an intimate place during menstruation at least once in her life. This is due to the fact that during this period various hormonal disruptions can occur in the body. In addition, itching and dryness of the intimate area can occur against the background of disorders of the thyroid and pancreas. Diabetes mellitus can also provoke discomfort, for the same reason. After stabilization of the hormonal background, itching and dryness go away on their own, and additional treatment is not required in this case.

In addition, an infection can be the cause of discomfort, but if this phenomenon is repeated with enviable regularity, then the cause of this phenomenon is most likely a decrease in the level of the estrogen hormone at certain periods of life. However, to make sure of this, you still need to contact a gynecologist for advice. You may still need to use special vaginal tablets or suppositories, which include hyaluronic and lactic acid.

Discomfort after sexual intercourse

Sometimes sexual intercourse may not bring the pleasure that is expected from it. And this may be due to burning and itching in the intimate area immediately after sex. One cause of discomfort may be an allergic reaction to latex or condom flavors. If this reason is excluded due to impossibility, then thrush, or candidiasis, leads to discomfort in the intimate zone. This disease develops as a result of the reproduction of the fungus of the genus Candida, in which, in addition to dryness, white curdled discharge also appears.

This disease is treated from 1 to 2 weeks, depending on neglect. Moreover, it is necessary to undergo treatment not only for a woman, but also for her sexual partner. Men also have symptoms of thrush in the form of itching and burning, but they are less pronounced.

If dryness and itching in the intimate area are caused by an allergy to condom components or simply insufficient secretion, then it is recommended to use special lubricants that moisten the vagina almost instantly, thereby increasing the slipperiness of its walls. In most cases, they are water-based with natural softening ingredients such as collagen, silk extract or bamboo extract. In addition, the composition of such products may include antibacterial and antifungal ingredients, which will be an excellent prevention of diseases. Glycerin-based products are also produced, but it is quite difficult to wash them off after intercourse, which, on the contrary, can provoke the development of an infection.

Dryness in the intimate area with menopause

Unfortunately, this period sooner or later comes for every representative of the weaker sex. In women over the age of 45, dryness in the intimate area without discharge and itching can signal the onset of menopause. During menopause, the epithelium of the vagina becomes much thinner and loses its former elasticity due to a decrease in the production of collagen fibers. In addition, the amount of vaginal secretion also decreases, which causes discomfort, in particular dryness in the intimate area in women.

All these factors provoke atrophic processes in the perineum and vagina. Itching and burning can be so strong that it is simply unrealistic to endure them. It is because of combing the affected areas that re-infection occurs, as well as the development of additional erosions and ulcers.

Do antibiotics affect the health of intimate places?

One of the main causes of dryness, itching and burning in the external genital area in women is taking antibiotics. are designed to eliminate infection and inflammation, but at the same time, the natural flora of the intestines and vagina is also killed. Also, the general immunity of the body is significantly reduced, due to which the latter is no longer able to fight the infection, and pathogenic microorganisms multiply. This is what leads to an imbalance in the microflora of the vagina, which causes itching, burning and dryness.

Causes of itching and burning during urination

Unlike candidiasis and bacterial vaginosis, itching and burning during urination are provoked by completely different bacteria and infections. In particular, the female urinary system is affected. Bacteria from the vagina can penetrate the organs of the urinary system (urethra, ureters, bladder, kidneys), thereby provoking diseases. Normally, the process of urination is not uncomfortable, which is why itching, burning, pain may indicate the presence of a disease. It can be cystitis, urethritis, urolithiasis and others. An accurate diagnosis can only be made by a doctor.

Features of diagnostics

The female intimate area is very sensitive to various pathogens, which is why even with a small number of them, very unpleasant symptoms can appear, for example, dryness in the intimate area (treatment depends on the diagnosis). To make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment, you need to contact a gynecologist who will send for research:

• blood analysis;
• Analysis of urine;
• vaginal swab to determine the type of pathogen and its sensitivity to antibiotics.

Only after the diagnosis is made, the doctor draws up a treatment plan.

Principles of treatment

Dryness, burning in the intimate area in women, the cause of which is not a disease, goes away on its own. If relief does not occur, you should contact your doctor who will prescribe medications.

If dryness and burning in the intimate area are accompanied by infectious or fungal diseases, then the disease must be cured to eliminate the symptoms. In addition, it is necessary to restore the microflora of the vagina.

In the event that dryness in the intimate area (treatment usually consists of the use of moisturizers) is the result of the use of contraceptives in the form of suppositories or tablets, it is necessary to change the drug. However, do not do this on your own, but after consulting a doctor. For moisturizing, you can use various creams, gels, ointments with a high content of lactic and hyaluronic acid, as well as glycoten.

If dryness occurs in the intimate area during menopause, the treatment is carried out on the basis of the examination, taking into account the results of the tests. In addition, there are special remedies for dryness in the intimate area.

Or suppositories, which include a certain amount of estrogen, do an excellent job with the problem of dryness of the external genitalia. These remedies eliminate dryness in the intimate area in women (the treatment is based on this) and prevent the loss of flexibility of the vaginal walls. The candles "Ovestin" and "Estriol" have proven themselves well.

Treatment takes place in two stages:

1. At the first stage, broad-spectrum antibiotics are used, and exclusively in local dosage forms, that is, ointments, creams, suppositories. It is also allowed to use corticosteroid ointments, the main purpose of which is the elimination of the inflammatory process. Among them, Lokakorten, Triakort, Flutsinar are popular.
2. The purpose of the second stage is to restore the balance of the microflora of the vagina. Therefore, the use of probiotics is required.

All drugs are prescribed exclusively by a doctor, however, symptoms can be reduced by means that are sold in a pharmacy without a prescription:

• furatsilin (in tablets - 1 tablet per 100 ml of boiled water - or solution) should be used for washing (the number of procedures per day depends on your condition);
• well proven - it is a protective agent that can eliminate inflammation and reduce the intensity of itching and burning;
• antihistamines, such as Suprastin, will help to quickly relieve itching, especially if such discomfort was provoked by an allergic reaction;
• suppositories will help eliminate dryness, which are made on the basis of vitamin E, which increases the amount of moisture in the vaginal cavity;
• the use of Aloe Vera gel will quickly relieve itching and dryness (you can also use a natural remedy from fresh aloe juice).

How to eliminate unpleasant symptoms at home?

The treatment of dryness and burning in the intimate area is prescribed by the doctor on the basis of the study, and it is strictly individual. However, a woman at home can alleviate the condition on her own. The main rules are:

• exclude the use of flavored intimate hygiene products (pads, toilet paper, creams, detergents and feminine products);
• for daily care of the external genital organs, it is recommended to use only water and unscented soap, and do this no more than once a day (more frequent washing can only aggravate the situation);

• you also need to wash yourself after visiting the toilet correctly: only in the front-to-back direction;
• when buying underwear, give preference to cotton, and change it daily;
• during intercourse, use condoms (provided there is no allergy to them) as a prophylactic for various sexually transmitted diseases;

• to eliminate dryness in the intimate area, you can use various moisturizing lubricants (the so-called lubricants), but it is better to choose water-based products, since they will not cause irritation and can be easily removed;
• it is better to refuse sexual intercourse for the duration of treatment until the discomfort is completely eliminated;
• if you feel severe itching, then it is strictly forbidden to comb the lesion site, this can increase irritation, as well as provoke infection;
• it is necessary to adjust the diet, in particular, completely abandon fatty and spicy foods, alcohol.

Folk remedies for dryness in the intimate area will also help alleviate the condition:

• Washing with a decoction of chamomile or calendula, for the preparation of which you need 1 tbsp. l. flowers pour 1 tbsp. boiling water and leave for 15 minutes (this procedure can be done up to 3-4 times a day, you do not need to use soap and rinse with water as well).
• Douching twice a day for five days with a solution of soda, which is prepared as follows: 1 tsp. dilute soda with 0.5 l of warm water and stir until completely dissolved (can be replaced with a solution of salt and iodine in the proportion of 30 g of salt, 5 g of iodine per 2 l of water).
• Lubrication of intimate places with vitamin E in an oil solution, which can be mixed with ordinary vegetable (after boiling it) twice a day (if dryness is excessive, then the number of procedures can be increased).
• Baths with decoctions of herbs, for example, chamomile or calendula (put dry flowers wrapped in gauze in a hot bath and leave for 10 minutes, the duration of the procedure itself is about 20 minutes).
• Kiwi vine extract is excellent for dryness (the advantage of this lubricant, which is sold in specialty stores, is to maintain a natural PH balance).

When the first unpleasant symptoms appear, it is recommended to consult a specialist. The sooner they are eliminated, the less likely the disease is to give complications.

An unpleasant feeling of irritation of a particular area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe skin, causing a person tangible discomfort, is called itching.

The human skin contains a large number of receptive nerve endings that respond to all kinds of stimuli (chemical irritations, touch, vibrations). In certain cases, with mechanical irritation of the skin (for example, if an insect crawls over you) or under the influence of a number of chemicals, there is a desire to comb the skin in the area excited by the action in order to remove the irritant (the so-called itching).

With allergies, dermatitis and other inflammatory and allergic skin diseases, it contains an increase in histamine- a substance that, irritating the nerve endings, causes itching. Most of the medications used to treat itching relieve the sensation of itching. by blocking the effects of histamine on nerve endings. In addition to itching, histamine causes blood vessels to dilate and tissue to swell, and as a result, itchy parts of the skin tend to be bright pinkish-red in color and appear somewhat swollen compared to healthy skin.

With obstructive jaundice (damage to the liver and bladder), a significant amount of bile acids and bilirubin is deposited in the skin. These substances, being strong irritants of nerve endings, can lead to intolerable itching of the skin. Patients with diabetes experience itching in the genital area and anus. This is due to the fact that with an increase in blood sugar levels, a yeast fungus grows.

Causes of itching

The causes of itching can be very different. To date, medicine knows several dozen diseases, the symptom of which is itching in various parts of the body. To identify the cause of itching, it is necessary to take into account factors such as the location of itching, skin changes in the localization of itching, and other symptoms that accompany itching. Next, we turn to the most common causes of itching, characterize its main features, and also consider additional symptoms characteristic of each disease associated with skin itching.

So, main causes of itching:
1. Skin diseases.
2. Diseases of organs and systems of the body:
Itching can be caused by a number of blood disorders. For example, with erythremia, that is, an increase in the number of red blood cells in the blood (the so-called Wakez disease), a characteristic itch appears after water procedures - a bath or shower. Another disease of the blood system, manifested as itching in the lower extremities, is Hodgkin's lymphoma. With this disease, there is a noticeable increase in one or more lymph nodes.
in cholelithiasis, when a stone clogs the gallbladder, as a rule, mechanical (another name is cholestatic) jaundice develops. With this type of jaundice, a significant part of the bilirubin pigment, which is part of bile, enters the bloodstream and is deposited on the skin. Acting on the skin nerve endings, bilirubin causes obvious skin itching. Among other symptoms of obstructive jaundice, yellow staining of the skin, sclera of the eyes and oral mucosa, recurrent pain in the right hypochondrium (can be both aching in nature and be very strong), etc. are noted.
a number of liver diseases (cancer, hepatitis, cirrhosis) can also lead to pruritus.
in rare cases, itching signals the presence of diabetes mellitus (especially itching in the genital area) or chronic renal failure (amyloidosis of the kidneys, chronic pyelonephritis), etc. In such cases, in addition to itching, there are other characteristic symptoms.
multiple sclerosis, which is a disease of the central nervous system associated with the destruction of the nerve sheath and impaired conduction of impulses along the nerve trunk. This type of sclerosis has the following symptoms: tingling sensation, numbness, blurred vision, imbalance, paralysis, hand trembling, etc., including skin itching.
a number of mental illnesses also have skin itching as a symptom (for example, neuroses, psychoses). As a rule, itching, which has a "psychic" etymology, is closely related in time to the moment of stress. That is stress is the cause of the appearance or intensification of itching.

Different types of localization of itching

Skin itching can be both localized and observed on the entire surface of the body. As a rule, itching in a localized skin area occurs in women in the genital area, and in men in the anus.

2. genital itching- the desire to comb the skin in the genital area (in women it manifests itself as itching of the labia and vagina, in men - in the scrotum and glans penis). Inguinal itching can occur as a symptom of many inflammatory diseases of the skin and genital organs.

In women, the cause of genital itching can be:
sexually transmitted diseases (candidiasis, chlamydia, ureaplasmosis, trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, mycoplasmosis, etc.) are usually accompanied by severe itching in the vagina, discharge from it, discomfort during urination (pain, cramps), reddening of the skin in the perineum, cracking, which can develop a favorable environment for infection.
Bacterial vaginosis (vaginal dysbacteriosis) is a disease in which the ratio of normal and pathogenic microflora of the vagina is disturbed. The causes of bacterial vaginosis are as follows: regular wearing of tight underwear, failure to follow the basic rules of personal hygiene, taking antibiotics, intestinal diseases, etc. Bacterial vaginosis is manifested by the following symptoms: vaginal itching, sticky, foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
other gynecological diseases: inflammation of the cervix (colpitis), reduction in size (the so-called atrophy) of the vulva (vulvar krauoz) - all these diseases also have severe itching in the genital area as symptoms.

In men, itching in the genital area can be caused by the following reasons:
sexually transmitted diseases (candidiasis, chlamydia, ureaplasmosis, etc.). Most often, other symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases among men are: burning and pain during ejaculation and urination, varying intensity of discharge from the urethra, etc.
Balanoposthitis is an inflammatory process in the glans penis and on the foreskin. The symptoms of balanoposthitis are as follows: redness or itching of the glans penis, swelling of the foreskin, a feeling of pain when the head of the penis is exposed.
if after intercourse a man feels itching of the head of the penis, this may indicate an increased acidity of the vaginal discharge in a partner.

In both women and men, itching in the groin can occur with scabies, especially in case of sexual transmission. The main symptoms of scabies: itching (especially worse at night), the appearance of whitish stripes on the skin (the so-called scabies) and itchy blisters, crusts, cracks.

3. Itching of the scalp- intermittent or constant desire to comb the scalp. Itching in this area can be a symptom of various diseases, the main of which are:
lice (pediculosis).
seborrheic dermatitis (seborrhea) is a disease of the scalp, décolleté and face, characterized by a malfunction of the sebaceous glands. There are two types of seborrhea: with dry seborrhea, the activity of the sebaceous glands decreases, and with oily seborrhea, the sebaceous glands begin to secrete more sebum with a changed chemical composition.
lichen (dermatophytosis) is a contagious fungal infection of the skin that most often occurs in children. Ringworm is characterized by hair loss on the head in one or more places.
dry scalp. With this feature of the skin, it is recommended to use cosmetic preparations for hair that have a moisturizing effect on the skin.

4. Itching of the skin of the legs may indicate about diseases of the vessels of the legs or about the defeat of the feet by the fungus. If you feel severe itching in the interdigital area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe legs, this may indicate a foot infection with a fungus (a type of dermatophytosis). Mycosis (foot fungus) is common in both men and women. This is a dependent disease and often it is combined with the defeat of the toenails by a fungus (onychomycosis). With this disease, a thickening of the nail plate occurs, while the nails become cloudy, become loose, crumble.

If itching is present in the area of ​​the feet and lower legs, this may be the cause of varicose veins, a disease of the leg vessels. As a rule, women suffer from varicose veins in the legs. Itching of the skin in the lower legs against the background of varicose veins may be accompanied by recurring swelling, a feeling of heaviness in the legs. In the later stages of varicose veins, a noticeable expanded venous network appears on the legs.

Itching during pregnancy

In pregnant women, itching usually appears in the second half of the pregnancy. It can cover the entire surface of the body, and can focus on the back and abdomen.

The causes of itching during pregnancy are varied. First, itching can occur because the growing uterus stretches the skin of the abdomen. In the second part of pregnancy, the abdomen usually grows at a rapid pace, as a result of which the skin of the anterior abdominal wall is stretched and thinned. Stretching the skin can cause itching in the back and abdomen. In this case, the use of a moisturizer will be mandatory.

Secondly, itching of the skin may also indicate a disease such as cholelithiasis. If, against the background of skin itching, yellowing of the skin, sclera of the eyes and mucous membranes of the mouth is observed, you need to urgently go to the hospital. The presence of thrush may indicate itching of the genital organs during pregnancy. Usually, after childbirth, itching disappears, as if it never happened.

Diagnosis and treatment of pruritus

We have previously said that itching can indicate the presence of many diseases, therefore, before treating itching, you need to establish the cause of its appearance. Usually, by eliminating the cause of the itching, you get rid of this symptom itself. Once you discover that you have itchy skin, you need to consult a dermatologist, who will direct you to the necessary tests and be able to make a diagnosis. It may turn out that the diagnosis will require the help of other doctors (allergist, endocrinologist, therapist, etc.).

The main principles of the treatment of skin itching are: getting rid of the cause of itching; with itching localized to a specific area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe body, local treatment and systemic (i.e. general) treatment are used. Before contacting a specialist dermatologist, you should not self-medicate (do not lubricate or treat itchy areas with any means), as this can make it difficult to make a diagnosis.

Diet for itchy skin

Often, the appearance of itching is associated with an allergic reaction to certain foods (urticaria, atopic dermatitis). At the time of itching, it is necessary to exclude fried, spicy and fatty foods from the diet, as well as those foods that most often cause allergies (cheeses, coffee, citrus fruits, eggs, chocolate, meat broths, alcohol, etc.). If there is itching in the genital area or anus, you need to reduce the amount of sweets (sugar, sweets, etc.) consumed. Useful in this case will be cereals (oatmeal, buckwheat, rice), kefir, pasta, vegetable puree, low-fat boiled meat.

Topical treatment for itching

In the treatment of pruritus is extremely important proper skin hygiene. With the spread of itching throughout the body, it is advised to treat the surface of the skin from time to time 3-5- a percentage solution of vinegar (moisten a sponge in the solution and rub the body with it), anesthesin and use talcum powder. With localized forms of itching (genital, anal itching), daily morning and evening washing, as well as washing after defecation (warm water with soap) will be useful.

For the treatment of anal itching, various anti-inflammatory ointments are effective means - Triderm, Ultraproct, Lokoid. However, it is important to remember that ointments only reduce the intensity of itching, but do not get rid of its cause, so their effect is temporary. To establish the real cause of anal itching and prescribe a full-fledged treatment, you need to consult a proctologist.

General treatment for itching

The most common mechanism for the development of skin itching can be called an increase in the amount of histamine in the skin. To reduce the intensity of itching, doctors prescribe antihistamines, such as Zyrtec, Loratidin, Tavegil, Erius, Suprastin etc. Please note that most antihistamines have an inhibitory effect on the nervous system, as a result of which it is forbidden to drive vehicles during treatment with this group of drugs.

Severe itching of the skin is usually an irritant to the nervous system, resulting in a patient with such a diagnosis suffers from irascibility. To eliminate this manifestation, drugs are used that have a calming effect on the nervous system (the so-called sedatives), these include: Novo-passit, valerian, mint tea, motherwort tincture and others.

If the itching does not go away for a long time, you need to consult a specialist.

Itching of the vagina can occur in a woman at different periods of life, at any age. Most often, such discomfort is combined with the occurrence of scratching wounds, which is a provoking factor for possible infection with pathogenic pathogens, leading to inflammation and the formation of ulcers.

External factors provoking vaginal itching

If it itches inside the vagina, this may indicate that some kind of failure has occurred in the body, or a disease has begun to develop. Only after finding out the true cause of this symptom, you can take action. Most often, itching in the intimate area causes:

• Taking antibiotics. Bacteria create a comfortable environment on the mucous membrane of the female genital organs. Antibiotics kill beneficial microorganisms along with the virus, they are replaced by opportunistic pathogens. As a result, the balance is disturbed, and there is a strong itching in the vagina.
• Insufficient hygiene. Ignoring hygiene procedures, which must be carried out at least twice a day, a rare change of linen leads to serious problems. First, it begins to itch in the vestibule of the vagina, an unpleasant odor appears. If proper measures are not taken, the genitals can become infected.
• Mechanical damage. Uncomfortable underwear, rough internal seams injure the mucous membrane. As a result, itching appears at the entrance to the vagina, on the pubis. Another cause is trauma during sexual contact, masturbation, and the introduction of tampons.
• Poisoning. In case of poisoning with food or toxic substances, the whole body can itch, including itching of the labia.
• Sweating. Sweat salts get on the mucous membrane, causing slight discomfort. For this reason, itching appears in the vagina and perineum in hot weather and in cold weather, when clothes that are too warm or made of synthetic fabrics are chosen.

Allergy

When itching in the vagina and the skin next to it, you should pay attention to the cosmetics (shower gels, shampoos, soaps) that you use. The cause of itching may be:

• Intimate hygiene products. The ingredients in this product may cause irritation. Choose products for water procedures without SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) in the composition. Use hypoallergenic baby oil and body milk, make compresses with mint infusion. Tampons, pads, toilet paper are best used without fragrances.

• Sex attributes. To eliminate the consequences in the form of itching in the vagina, one should be interested in what materials the purchased goods are made of. Talk to your gynecologist about choosing condoms and sex toys.

Itching in the vaginal area with sexually transmitted diseases

With unprotected sexual contact, the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease is very high. In most cases, infections are accompanied by secretions that are clear, white, greenish in color and have an unpleasant odor. In addition, it itches a lot inside and outside the vagina.

Complications due to STDs as a cause of vaginal itching

There are many latent infections that are sexually transmitted and do not manifest themselves for a long time. Against their background, complications are dangerous:

• urethritis - inflammation of the mucous membrane of the urethra;
• cervicitis - inflammation of the mucous membrane of the cervix;
• endometritis - inflammation of the uterus.

Usually, itching inside the vagina is a sign of a decrease in immunity, an exacerbation of chronic diseases of the internal organs. This condition can also be after the transferred virus.

Other causes of vaginal itching

It is not excluded the appearance of discomfort due to factors that are not associated with sexual infections and contact with irritants.

• Hormonal disorders. Most often, women suffer during menopause and pregnancy.

• Mental disorders. Itching in the vagina due to stress and strong feelings is a common occurrence.

• Diseases of the kidneys, liver, blood. Pathologies of the internal organs often cause discomfort in the genital area. Patients usually complain of constant itching. The causes and treatment of this condition is the task of a narrow specialist (hepatologist, hematologist, etc.).

• Inflammation of the mucosa. Pathology can be caused by skin diseases, complications as a result of sexual infections, severe hypothermia, mechanical damage and other causes.

• Urogenital fistulas. If there is itching in the vagina after childbirth or surgery, urogenital fistulas may be the cause.

• Worms. Helminths lay eggs not only in the anus, but also on the eve of the vulva, which causes severe discomfort in the vagina, itching of the skin around it. Patients report an increase in symptoms at night.

• Atrophy of the vaginal mucosa. Dryness of the mucosa during menopause can be the reason why the vagina itches and pain occurs during intercourse.

• Tumors. A symptom of neoplasms of a different nature often becomes an itchy condition in the genital area.

Diagnostics

In many cases, with the appearance of itching in the vagina, medication is necessary, and for proper therapy, accurate diagnosis is necessary.

3 days before the visit to the gynecologist, you need to exclude sexual intercourse, use baby soap for washing, do not douche. Diagnostic measures usually consist of the following steps:

• First, the gynecologist takes an anamnesis: he clarifies the symptoms, lifestyle, nutrition, drugs taken recently, and other nuances that may affect the appearance of genital itching.
• Conducts an examination of the genital organs, notes all the symptoms.
• Takes a swab for a biochemical study.
• Prescribes blood, urine, stool tests.

If necessary, a study can be carried out on medical equipment: ultrasound, MRI, X-ray, CT. They allow you to determine neoplasms, the state of internal organs.

Then the doctor decides what to do and how to treat the patient: leave her on outpatient therapy, place her in a hospital, or refer her to other specialists.

Medical treatment

If the cause of discomfort is not external irritants and improper hygiene, the treatment of itching in the vagina should take place only after an accurate diagnosis and according to the doctor's prescription. In each case, the treatment is selected individually.

• Fungal infections can be cured through the use of antimycotic drugs, in some cases - antibiotics. Usually prescribed Nystatin, Levorin, Clotrimazole, Ginezol. At the same time, suppositories can be prescribed to restore the microflora of the mucosa: Vagilak, Ecofemin, Bifidumbacterin.

• For allergies, antihistamines are prescribed. They perfectly relieve itching and help to cope with hypersensitivity to sensitizing agents tablets: Telfast, Erius, Suprastin, Tavegil injection, Enterosgel paste, Hydrocortisone and Menthol ointment.

• Laktozhinal, Lactobacterin, Laktonorm, Femilex, sour-milk diet help to restore the vaginal microflora.

• Venereal diseases require long-term and complex therapy with the obligatory intake or administration of antibiotics intramuscularly. Metronidazole, Erythromycin, Doxycycline, Chlorhexidine, Trichopolum, Betadine are often prescribed. How to treat (course of therapy) can only be determined by the attending physician, self-medication in this case is contraindicated.

If it itches inside the vagina due to diseases of the internal organs, the treatment is carried out by a narrow specialist after diagnosis using instrumental examination.

Additionally, during therapy it is necessary to take vitamins, immunomodulators. The correct course should also be prescribed by the doctor.

Folk remedies for itching in the vagina

If an incomprehensible scabies in the genital area has just appeared, and there is no reason to suspect the seriousness of the cause, you can cope with the discomfort yourself.

If after 3 days the symptoms have not disappeared, you should immediately go to the doctor.

At home, you can use these effective recipes to help remove itching (douching 3 times a day):

Recipe 1. Prepare a solution of baking soda at the rate of 1 teaspoon per half liter of warm water.

For the duration of treatment, it is necessary to exclude sexual contacts, do not visit a public sauna, swimming pool. At the same time, you need to sleep well, not be nervous. It is important to remember that even with the disappearance of symptoms, it is necessary to take tests and make sure that there is no cause for concern.

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Most women at some point or another in their life experience an unpleasant itch in the vagina. In some cases, mild itching disappears on its own, but it also happens that it does not go away due to an illness or allergy. Depending on the specific cause of the itching, home remedies are often enough, but sometimes you need to see a doctor.

Steps

Interim measures

Apply cold compresses. Regardless of what causes vaginal itching, it can be temporarily relieved with a cold compress (such as a damp, soft washcloth) applied to the labia.

• Take a clean face washcloth for a cold compress and hold it under a stream of cold water until it gets wet. Then squeeze out the excess water and apply the washcloth to the vaginal area for 5-10 minutes.
• Be sure to wash the washcloth after use. For the next compress, use a new, clean washcloth.
• You can also apply an ice pack. Remember to wrap it in a clean towel and don't apply the compress for more than 20 minutes at a time.

1. Avoid irritants. Washing powder, soap and other products can irritate the mucous membrane and cause itching in the vagina. Switch to unscented laundry detergents and avoid using fabric softener to avoid vaginal itching due to an allergic reaction. You can also use a mild cleanser to avoid irritation from regular shower gel.

   • Try using Dove soap or Cetaphil mild skin cleanser, for example.
   • Do not use scented cleansers, wet wipes, powders, or other products that can irritate the vaginal area.

2. Try using a humidifier. Purchase a water-based cream or emulsion ointment from your local pharmacy that can help relieve vaginal itching. Follow directions for use and be aware that these products do not address the cause of itching.

   Do not scratch the itchy area. Scratching can increase irritation and itching. Moreover, it can lead to skin damage and infection, so never scratch the irritated area.

   Get rid of the cause of the itching. Itching in the vagina can occur for unknown reasons and go away on its own, but if you experience severe or persistent itching, it may be due to more serious reasons. In this case, it is necessary to find out these causes and try to get rid of them: for example, to cure an infectious disease or avoid contact with irritants.

Treatment of a fungal infection

Look for a fungal infection (candidiasis, or thrush). A fungal infection can be difficult to distinguish from other types of infection, so if in doubt, see your doctor. A fungal infection is often accompanied by symptoms such as inflammation, burning and pain in the vagina, and a watery or thick, white, odorless vaginal discharge.

Take over-the-counter drugs. To treat a fungal infection, there are many creams and vaginal suppositories (candles) that can be purchased at your nearest pharmacy. As a rule, these funds are sufficient to treat most fungal infections.

Consider other treatments. If standard medications don't work for you, or if you want to use natural remedies, try other methods.

Know when to see a doctor. In most cases, you can get rid of a fungal infection yourself at home, but sometimes you have to resort to medical help. It is usually recommended to see a doctor if you have never had a fungal infection before, as this can lead to misdiagnosis. You should also consult a doctor if self-treatment does not work.

Try to prevent fungal infections in the future. You may not be able to completely avoid recurring fungal infections in the future, but there are many ways to reduce their chances.

Treatment of bacterial vaginosis

Recognize the symptoms. Symptoms of bacterial vaginosis include burning, inflammation, a thin, greyish-white discharge, and a fishy vaginal odor. The disease may be accompanied by all these symptoms, only some of them, or they may be absent altogether.

• The exact causes of bacterial vaginosis are unknown, and some women are more susceptible to it than others. Many women experience bacterial vaginosis at least once a year. This may be due to lower levels of naturally beneficial bacteria.

1. Contact your doctor. Unlike a fungal infection, bacterial vaginosis is difficult to self-treat at home. To get rid of the infection and associated symptoms, you should consult a doctor who will prescribe suitable drugs. These can be oral agents such as Metronidazole or Tinidazole, or creams such as Clindamycin.

   • To diagnose bacterial vaginosis, your doctor will do a pelvic exam and take a swab from your vagina to check it under a microscope. In addition, using a test strip, the doctor can check the pH level in the vagina.
   • It is especially important to immediately start treating bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy, as in this case it can lead to serious complications.

2. Prevent the recurrence of vaginosis. Although you may not be protected from repeated cases of vaginosis, there are a few simple rules that help reduce the risk.

STD treatment

1. Learn about the warning signs of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Vaginal itching is characteristic of many different STDs. If you experience any of the symptoms listed below, or simply suspect that you may have contracted an STD, contact your doctor immediately. Be aware that sometimes STDs occur without any symptoms.

   • Trichomoniasis is usually accompanied by redness, a strong vaginal odor, and yellow-green vaginal discharge.
   • Chlamydia is often asymptomatic, but can also cause abnormal bleeding, vaginal discharge, and abdominal pain.
   • Gonorrhea is usually accompanied by thick, cloudy or bloody vaginal discharge, itching, and painful urination.
   • Herpes usually results in red pimples, blisters, and sores in the vaginal area.
   • Human papillomaviruses usually cause small, flesh-colored warts in the genital area (these warts can be quite numerous).

2. Visit a doctor. In the case of STDs, it is necessary to consult a doctor who will prescribe the appropriate treatment. If left untreated, some STDs can lead to serious complications, so you need to see your doctor right away and start taking their prescribed medications.

   • Gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and trichomoniasis are treated with antibiotics. Depending on the type of infection, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics by mouth or by injection.
   • Although there is no cure for human papillomaviruses, your doctor will be able to suggest steps that will reduce the chance of new genital warts forming in the future.
   • Herpes can be suppressed with antiviral medications that reduce the chance of relapses, although it is not completely curable and there is no guarantee that you will not infect others.