home Diseases What to do if your labia are itchy and when to see a doctor. Itching, swelling, burning, dryness, pimples and cracks on the labia minora and majora: causes, treatment. How to treat itching and swelling of the labia during pregnancy and after sex

What to do if your labia are itchy and when to see a doctor. Itching, swelling, burning, dryness, pimples and cracks on the labia minora and majora: causes, treatment. How to treat itching and swelling of the labia during pregnancy and after sex

An unpleasant symptom that causes a lot of inconvenience is irritation in the labia area, which in most cases is not associated with serious problems, but to identify the causes of its occurrence, you should still consult a doctor in order to exclude the presence of gynecological diseases, which, as a rule, are accompanied by others symptoms: burning discharge, unpleasant odor, burning or swelling.

Causes of irritation that occurs on the labia

Itching, raw pain, and burning sensation on the labia often appear due to local irritants, dysbiosis, infections, or during menopause.

Redness and itching as a manifestation of genital irritation

Chemical irritants. Intimate creams and sprays, condoms, contraceptives, soaps, laundry detergents, scented toilet paper and fabric softeners can irritate the vulva and cause irritation of the labia minora and majora. This discomfort is not accompanied by unusual discharge; the usual vaginal mucus may increase.

Irritation of the labia minora

Bacterial vaginosis. A healthy bacterial community in the vagina is normal. But the predominance of one type leads to infection. Other symptoms: redness and itching of the labia, burning and unpleasant odor.
Acute vaginitis. Inflammation of the vaginal mucosa caused by infection with pathogenic microorganisms. The first sign of this disease is profuse discharge, followed by redness of the labia minora, itching, and swelling.

It is important! If vaginitis is caused by syphilis or gonorrhea and is not treated adequately, infertility may subsequently occur.

Yeast infection (vaginal candidiasis) is familiar to one in three out of four women. Irritation of the labia minora, itching and leucorrhoea accompany excessive proliferation of yeast in the vagina.

Photo 1: A common cause of yeast infection is taking antibiotics, a weakened immune system, or traumatic sexual contact. Source: flickr (LolaManzanita).

Irritation of the labia majora

Frequent depilation and increasing the length of time the cream stays on the skin when removing unwanted hair with its help are also fraught with troubles. The site of the procedure turns red, itching and burning are felt.
Menopause. The decrease in estrogen production that accompanies the end of a woman's reproductive years leads to dryness and thinning of the skin. This causes itching and irritation of the labia minora and majora.
Infection with genital herpes or a relapse of the disease also manifests itself with itching, the appearance of blisters and crusts, and ends with peeling.
One of the manifestations of diabetes mellitus in women is peeling and itching in the labia majora.

This is interesting! Only the skin of the labia majora is susceptible to peeling that accompanies irritation. And the structure of the epithelium of the labia minora is such that when inflamed, it does not form scales.

What to do if irritation of the labia occurs

Photo 2: Irritation often goes away on its own. But if it continues or recurs frequently, treatment is necessary. The gynecologist will prescribe an examination, including tests to find the source of the problem. Source: flickr (Synapse).

Treatment for irritation of the labia depends on the identified cause of the ailment.

Itching and irritation associated with menopause are eliminated by using estrogen cream and tablets.

avoid toilet paper and pads with fragrances, intimate hygiene gels;
for intimate hygiene, use clean water and ordinary unscented toilet soap;
wear cotton underwear without synthetics;
avoid douching;
For vaginal dryness, use a vaginal moisturizer.

Important! It is recommended to avoid sexual intercourse until the condition improves. They will not bring joy because of the pain and possible deterioration of the condition.

Homeopathic treatment for labia irritation

Homeopathy can cope with many diseases of the skin and mucous membranes. Homeopathic medicines harmonize the functioning of the body and relieve it of illness.

Stress or severe fear often causes unpleasant symptoms in the genital area - shock reduces the local immunity of the skin. In such cases, the drug is perfect Ignazia amara(Ignatia amara).
For irritation and itching, the following are recommended: Lycopodium(Lycopodium clavatum), Hydrocotyle asiatica.
If acute vaginitis is accompanied by severe itching, it is recommended Caladium (Caladium seguinum).
When vaginal discharge literally eats away the mucous membrane, it will help Creosote(Kreosotum fagus).
Gamma Dermosulfur improves the condition of mucous membranes, has a soothing effect on itching.
A drug Gamma Geolamio(contains Kreosotum; Alumina; Caladium seguinum; Sulfur; Tuja occidentalis; Kali bichromicum; Sepia; Causticum; Hydrastis; Mezereum; Viola tricolor; Croton tiglium; Ferrum metallicum; Cinnabaris) is recommended for vulvovaginitis.
Itching and peeling are recommended to be treated with the drug Borax(Borax) brown, Sodium tetraborate.
Treats genital infections Copaiva.
Yeasts that cause itching and irritation suppress Mercurius solubilis(Mercurius solubilis), Natrium muriaticum.
If dryness and itching of the mucous membranes are observed during menopause, prescribe Sepia(Sepia), which has a beneficial effect on the female reproductive system.

Symptoms of the disease

In addition to the fact that a woman is bothered by constant itching, the symptoms are always accompanied by such unpleasant sensations as severe swelling and redness. These conditions affect not only the labia, but also the mucous membrane. During an internal examination, inflammatory processes are also observed on the mucous walls of the vagina; in severe cases, there may be problems with the cervix.

When itching continues for a long time and a woman constantly scratches the affected areas, cracks may appear on the external genitalia, into which pathogenic bacteria can enter. This can cause severe suppuration, which sometimes requires urgent surgical intervention.

Attention! In advanced stages of the disease, traces of tissue atrophy and ulcers may appear on the external female organs. In such cases, it is necessary to urgently consult a doctor to prevent the development of gangrene and other dangerous processes.

Causes of itching of the external genitalia

The main sources of such an unpleasant symptom are the following:

Problems with personal hygiene, which include infrequent washing, daily use of soap bases for washing, wearing sanitary pads outside of menstruation, as well as frequent wearing of underwear made of non-natural fabrics;
rarely changing tampons or sanitary pads during monthly menstruation, as well as using these personal hygiene items with a large number of fragrances;

the use of medications to treat the genitals and vaginal opening in the treatment of infectious diseases, itching, as a rule, in this case occurs due to side effects or an incorrectly prescribed dose;
the development of thrush, which manifests itself under stress, poor diet, colds and hormonal imbalance;
the presence of infections and fungal diseases, overheating and hypothermia, these processes are especially dangerous when wearing synthetic underwear;
diseases of the kidneys, blood, liver and bladder, in which case a quick diagnosis is not made immediately if the doctor is not sufficiently qualified;
cancer of the external and internal reproductive system of women;
vaginal dysbiosis, which is provoked by the pathogenic growth of pathogenic bacteria;
unstable psycho-emotional state, including stress and depression;
during pregnancy and menopause, in addition, the problem can be triggered by hormonal imbalance due to poor functioning of the endocrine system.

Attention! Regardless of the cause of the itching, a woman must wash her genitals every day before going to bed to eliminate all pathogenic bacteria. It is recommended to use soap bases for this procedure only once a week, so as not to dry out the mucous membrane.

Drug treatment of genital itching

Amoxicillin

The drug belongs to the class of antibiotics and is prescribed in situations where the problem is caused by bacteria, inflammation and the presence of E. coli in the smear. For mild to severe cases of the disease, the patient is recommended to take two 250 mg capsules three times a day at regular intervals after meals. If the inflammation and itching is severe, which is characterized by ulcers and extensive damage, the patient may be prescribed 3 g of Amoxicillin, divided into three doses. To support the intestines, it is also recommended to use prebiotics. The duration of therapy can be from five to ten days, taking into account the severity of the disease.

Fluconazole

A popular antifungal agent that is most often prescribed when diagnosing thrush. When choosing Fluconazole, treatment lasts literally one day. After meals, a woman should take one capsule of the drug, which is equal to 150 mg of the active substance. In case of severe candidiasis, the gynecologist may recommend that the woman take another capsule after 1-2 days of the week, which will consolidate the result. It is recommended that the woman’s sexual partner undergo the same course of therapy to avoid relapse.

Terzhinan

Vaginal tablets that must be taken before going to bed. In this case, be sure to wash your external genitalia and hands first. Terzhinan has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect and is able to quickly relieve itching and irritation. Experts recommend immersing the medication in warm water for 20 seconds before using it, and then immediately placing the tablet inside the vagina. The recommended course of therapy is ten days; if the patient's condition is complicated, the duration of treatment can be doubled. When using Terzhinan, it is necessary to completely avoid sexual contact until the end of the course of therapy.

Nystatin

The most affordable vaginal suppositories that can suppress itching and relieve irritation in just a few uses. They are used mainly for diseases caused by fungi. The patient is recommended to put one suppository twice a day. After insertion, you must lie down for 20 minutes, as the suppositories quickly melt and can come out of the vagina. It is recommended to be treated with Nystatin for two weeks. When using suppositories, be sure to abstain from sexual activity.

Pimafucin

Women are usually recommended to use only vaginal suppositories, but in the presence of severe vaginitis and dysbiosis, tablets are additionally prescribed. Vaginal suppositories are used before going to bed, one at a time, after thorough toileting of the external genitalia. A total of three to six suppositories are usually prescribed. The tablets are taken one at a time four times a day for two to three weeks. The partner is recommended to use Pimafucin cream for preventive treatment, which is applied once a day after washing for three to six days.

Pimafukort

It is used in the form of an ointment, which can quickly reduce discomfort even at the first use. Additionally, the product has a powerful healing effect. Apply the ointment once or twice a day according to indications for three to ten days. The duration of treatment directly depends on the patient’s condition. Pimafucort in ointment form can also be used by a partner for three days.

Attention! Hormonal disorders are treated under the general supervision of a gynecologist and endocrinologist. Drugs and their doses can be selected only after a large number of tests, smears and checking the condition of the ovaries and thyroid gland.

Video - Causes of vaginal itching

Traditional methods of treating genital itching

Soda washes

To prepare the solution, you need to take 500 ml of warm boiled water and dilute two teaspoons of regular table soda in it. You need to wash yourself with this water 4-6 times a day. You must first rinse the external organs with plain water to remove the main plaque. The duration of treatment with soda can last until all symptoms are completely eliminated, ideal for combined treatment. It is strictly forbidden to syringe the solution inside the vagina, as this can cause discomfort and burning, even severe dryness of the internal mucosa.

Chamomile officinalis

To prepare the solution, you need to boil a liter of water and add two tablespoons of the plant mixture to it. The drug is infused under a tight lid or towel for five hours. After this, all chamomile must be removed using any material. You need to use a liter of chamomile solution at a time. In total, it is recommended to do three procedures per day. If you have prepared more solution, store it in the refrigerator for 24 hours, warming it up a little before use. The duration of the course is until the symptoms disappear completely.

Calendula baths

They must be made in a clean basin; it is recommended to scald it with boiling water first. After this, you need to make a medicinal infusion. Boil five liters of water and add three tablespoons of crushed calendula to it. Let the liquid sit for five hours, then remove all the plant mixture. Heat the resulting liquid to a temperature of +37 degrees and pour it into a bowl. Sit in the bath for 15 minutes, then gently dry your body with a soft towel. It is advisable to do such procedures before going to bed for 7-10 days.

Apple vinegar

As in the previous recipe, you must first scald the basin with boiling water. After this, prepare five liters of boiled water, cooled to +37 degrees. After pouring the water into a basin, add 200 ml of good apple cider vinegar to it and stir the liquid thoroughly. The procedure must be carried out for five minutes, after which the genitals are wiped with a soft terry towel, but it is better to use disposable paper ones. The duration of therapy is no more than five days. Such procedures help especially well with menopause and hormonal imbalance that is not caused by pregnancy.

Fresh basil

You need to take 20 g of the plant and place it in 500 ml of cold water. Boil the mixture over low heat for 20 minutes, after which the solution is divided into 10 doses of 50 ml each. They are drunk for three days, one serving before the main meal. On the last day of therapy, you must take the fourth dose before going to bed. If after this the symptoms of the disease have not gone away, you can repeat another course of treatment without a pause.

Attention! The described remedies can be used regardless of the age and condition of the patient. The only exceptions are those women and girls who are individually intolerant to the components of home remedies.

Cost of anti-itch medications

A drug	Price in Russia	Price in Ukraine
Amoxicillin	65-165 rubles	27-68 hryvnia
Fluconazole	15-300 rubles	6.1-123 hryvnia
Terzhinan	360-500 rubles	148-205 hryvnia
Nystatin	34 rubles	14 hryvnia
Pimafucin	270-590 rubles	111-242 hryvnia
Pimafukort	700 rubles	287 hryvnia

Attention! In a particular region, the cost of these drugs may vary from 5 to 20% up or down. It all depends on the country of origin and the number of doses in the package.

Prevention of genital itching in women

To protect yourself from itching of the external genitalia, a woman must adhere to the following recommendations:

wear only cotton underwear and change it daily;
wash daily with clean water at room temperature;
refuse panty liners;
take smears for flora from a gynecologist three times a year;
eat right, trying to exclude sweet and spicy foods from your diet;
if you have menstruation, be sure to refuse sexual relations, since the mucous membrane is too susceptible to damage at this time;
once a year, take a smear for infectious and fungal diseases;
have sexual relations with only one partner, if there are several, use condoms.

Attention! Ideally, women are advised to clean their external genitalia after each visit to the toilet.

If within three to seven days there is no noticeable improvement in your health, the itching continues to bother you and even intensifies, you should again seek help from a gynecologist. A more detailed study will be required, in addition to standard smears. Sometimes severe cases require hospital treatment, which may include IVs and injections.

Hello! The question concerns me: in October last year, small rashes with purulent contents began to appear on my chin. At first, these symptoms were attributed to hormonal imbalance and low immunity at that time (there was an unsuccessful pregnancy, which was terminated in April, although she was examined after it, sex hormones were normal), but as time passed, the situation worsened. Pimples began to appear around the nose, above the upper lip and nasolabial folds. Some had the character of just a white dot, not even inflamed around, went away on their own within 3 without leaving a trace, the larger ones were inflamed and looked like ordinary pimples. Let me clarify that other areas (cheeks, nose, forehead) were clean, without pimples. Facial skin is oily, combination in winter. I never really suffered from rashes, except for 1-2 pimples before my period.
I went to a dermatologist, got tested for Demodex - not found, and cultured from the pustule - found St. epidermidis 10v4 CFU/ml. Sensitive to: azithromycin, erythromycin, kanamycin, cephalexin, gatifloxacin, cefixime. Resistant: chloramphenicol, ceftazidime, norfloxacin, rifampicin.
They prescribed: isotrexin gel topically at night, a mash based on sulfur, alcohol (I can’t completely decipher the recipe) rubbed into problem areas before the gel, washing without water, rubbing Physiogel skin cleanser. After a month and a half, the acne gradually disappeared, but isolated inflammations continued appear. I also treated the area myself with chlorophyllipt alcohol solution. The skin in the affected area became very dry and irritated, but over time the doctor did not make any adjustments to the treatment.
Then I turned to another specialist. I took Demodex again - it was not detected. Urinalysis - no comment, everything is fine. General analysis and blood biochemistry - there are too many indicators, I will not go into details, but the indicators are all normal. The doctor only noticed that the marker responsible for the pancreas is at the upper limit of normal. I have never had problems with this area, no pain. Regular stool. Were prescribed: Diet - exclude sweet, sour, salty, spicy. Atolsil 1 pack 2 rubles per day. Cetrilev 1t 1r per day. Calcium gluconate 1 t 3 r per day. Eliminal gel 1 pack 3 times a day. Locally: synthomycin m. 1 ruble a day (before bedtime) and Atopra cream in the morning. The entire therapy lasts 10 days. After 10 days, the redness and irritation of the skin went away, it became lighter, the tone evened out, and single white heads appeared rarely. Inflamed pimples and subcutaneous acne have completely stopped appearing, although there were only 1-2 of them. The following are prescribed: diet. White coal 1t 2p per day for 5 days. For 6 days 1t 1p per day. Suprastin 1 t 2 r per day. Galstena 10 drops 3 rubles per day. Eliminal gel 2 packs 2 times a day. Atopra cream in the morning. Also all 10 days. As a result, a small rash began to appear on the face in the area of the chin and wings of the nose, which was especially noticeable when washing with the pads of the fingers and was almost invisible to others. It was prescribed: diet. Fenkarol 25 mg 1 t 1 r per day, Eliminal gel 1 pack 1 r per day for 5 days. Calcium gluconate 1 t 3 r per day, galstena 10 drops 3 r per day. Locally: Atopra in the morning, Stopdemodex balm at night. All for 10 days. Within two or three days of therapy, this small rash became covered with white heads, small ones, which rise slightly above the surface of the skin (no pain, no itching) and at the moment there are about 15 such rashes on the chin, up to 10 near the nose. Some go away, others appear. I stopped using stopdemodex because... in the first days of using it, the rashes became much more numerous and they became slightly inflamed. Now I use syntomycin ointment on them at night for 3 days, it relieves inflammation, new ones almost never appear. The old ones are starting to fade. I understand that antibiotics cannot be used for a long time.
What can you recommend? Tell me, could this be a manifestation of Staphylococcus epidermidis? There are currently no symptoms of demodex (itching, subcutaneous red pimples, etc.) other than these small pimples. Could it be him or is the place infected. Is additional research needed?

Almost all women at least once throughout their lives experience the fact that the labia minora or majora begin to itch. There are many reasons for this phenomenon, and not all of them require treatment. But in some cases, feeling that the skin of the intimate areas is itching, it is necessary to contact a specialist for urgent treatment.

To know whether a woman needs medical help, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the most common causes of such symptoms.

Mucous membranes are a very thin and delicate part of the external intimate organs. The entire thickness of their integumentary tissues is permeated with nerve endings, and because of this, any irritating factors cause strong sensations.

Experts divide the main causes of itching in this area into the following categories:

external factors;
gynecological problems;
pathologies of internal organs and systems;
venereal diseases;
hormonal changes.

External factors

Often the cause of discomfort is factors that do not require therapy. It is important for a woman to know what external irritants can cause increasing itching in the intimate area:

Neglect of personal hygiene. Bathing once a day is unacceptable for women. Doctors advise cleaning the labia after waking up and before going to bed, and also remembering to wash the vulva after each sex session and visit to the toilet.
Wearing inappropriate underwear. Synthetic fabric often causes irritation to the skin and mucous membranes of the intimate areas, so it is necessary to give preference to the daily use of panties made from natural materials that provide good air exchange and prevent fogging in the groin area. In addition, itching and burning in this area may be due to large seams or poor quality lace.
Tampons and pads. Despite the fact that they are designed specifically to provide comfort during menstruation, their use can cause problems. This is because the moist and warm environment inside these products is an excellent environment for the rapid proliferation of microorganisms, and menstrual fluid is a suitable food for most of them. To avoid unpleasant consequences, you need to replace tampons and pads with new ones at least every 3 hours. Itching can also be caused by dyes or deodorants used to deodorize pads.
Allergic manifestations. The labia can itch even due to a simple food allergy. But most often, the allergens for the intimate area are the ingredients of the products that a woman uses to wash her vulva, intimate deodorants and other cosmetics. This reaction may cause severe itching and swelling in the perineum.
A woman's labia may itch due to epilation or depilation of the bikini area, after which irritation often occurs on the skin. Itching also appears when hairs grow back.
Stress, significant mental stress, depression and strong feelings can cause itching for women whose skin is prone to reactions in response to emotional changes.

The main sign that the external genitalia itches for external reasons is the absence of pathological discharge from the vagina.

Gynecological problems

Gynecological diseases very often cause discomfort in the vulva and perineal area. Symptoms such as itching, burning, swelling and hyperemia may be due to the development of one of the following diseases:

Vaginal dysbiosis(violation of the microflora composition). There can be many reasons for the development of such a disease, ranging from taking antibiotics to a general decrease in immunity and hypovitaminosis. A decrease in the number of lactobacilli becomes the reason for the development of pathogenic microflora, which causes unpleasant symptoms. Often, altered vaginal discharge with a pungent odor is observed.
Endometritis. This pathology occurs due to the proliferation of the intrauterine walls. In this case, purulent discharge, frequent pain in the pelvic region, and swelling of the labia majora are observed. Often, with such a diagnosis, the monthly cycle is disrupted, body temperature rises, and the uterus is clearly palpable, as its structure enlarges and hardens.
Leukoplakia of the genitourinary organs. With it, symptoms develop very slowly and appear in the form of white “plaques” on the mucous epithelium. Without treatment, the disease can develop into a malignant tumor.
Bartholinitis. With this pathology, the gland, which is located near the entrance to the vagina, becomes inflamed. The external intimate organs become swollen, reddened, and painful sensations are observed during walking, running or sexual intercourse. Small ulcers filled with pus often appear on the surface of the vulva. Itching occurs both during the development of ulcers and during their healing.
Vulvovaginitis. With this disease, itching and swelling are localized in the area of the labia majora and minora, which are affected by the inflammatory process. In some cases, they swell so much that they cause difficulty walking. The causes of this pathology include violations of intimate hygiene requirements or mechanical injuries to the vagina after medical examinations or abortions.

Disorders of the microflora or vulvovaginitis can be caused not only by a lack of intimate hygiene, but also by excessive use of soap with an antibacterial composition or douching with antiseptics, which wash out beneficial bacteria from the vagina.

Most gynecological diseases, if left untreated, cause dysfunction of the reproductive organs and can lead to absolute infertility.

Pathologies of internal organs

The folds of the lips major and minor itch, swell and tingle in many acute or chronic diseases not directly related to the woman’s genitourinary system. Such symptoms appear with diabetes mellitus, various types of hepatitis, lymphogranulomatosis, anemia, benign and malignant tumors, diseases of the hematopoietic organs, etc.

To determine the causes in such cases, specialists evaluate the accompanying symptoms that arise during the current illness, or prescribe an extensive additional examination.

Venereal diseases

With diseases transmitted during sex, burning, itching, tingling and other uncomfortable sensations can be very strong. They cause discomfort and affect not only a woman’s sexual activity, but also all other areas of activity, as they interfere with proper sleep, reduce performance, cause irritability and can cause serious complications.

Among the main sexually transmitted diseases that cause itching of the labia are the following:

. Appears against a background of weakened immunity, which often occurs after serious illnesses or long-term chronic illnesses. The itching of herpes is combined with a strong burning sensation, which reaches its peak at the time of the appearance of herpetic pimples filled with liquid. By the time the pimples and blisters heal, all unpleasant symptoms gradually subside.
Athlete's foot in the groin. An infection that at the first stage manifests itself in the form of small spots near the labia. At first, the size of these spots is small, but then gradually increases and grows up to 10 centimeters in diameter. In the center of the spot there are blisters that are very itchy.
Gardnerellosis. With this infection, the labia minora become significantly swollen and very itchy. A characteristic symptom is an unpleasant fishy odor emanating from the vulva. The inside of the vagina is covered with homogeneous whitish or grayish mucus, which gradually seeps out. Against the background of gardnerellosis, inflammation of the ovarian appendages may develop, which is a dangerous gynecological diagnosis that requires immediate treatment.
. This sexually transmitted disease causes an inflammatory process in the vagina, in the cervix, causing the secretion of an insufficient amount of secretion from the gland responsible for secreting lubrication during sex. For this reason, discomfort is felt during sexual intercourse. In addition, the production of copious vaginal discharge begins, which smells very unpleasant, causes irritation and itching.

This video explains how to get rid of itching due to genital herpes.

Patients with symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases turn to a venereologist or gynecologist, who can accurately determine the cause and relieve the woman of unpleasant sensations with the help of competent treatment.

Hormonal changes

Almost all hormone surges provoke changes in the mucous epithelium of the labia, which begin to itch and itch. Such phenomena are observed during puberty, pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause or before the onset of menstruation. This is due to swelling of the skin and mucous membranes or a violation of acidity in the vagina.

In girls in adolescence, such symptoms are due to the immaturity of the endocrine glands. At the stage of growing up, they may not work in harmony, which can lead to unpleasant sensations in the vulva area.

Before the onset of menstruation, itching in the labia is caused by a sharp jump in progesterone, which also affects the emotionality of girls and women, making them more irritable and vulnerable.

Pregnancy is a period of major hormonal changes in a woman’s body. The external genitalia may become swollen and itchy, especially in the first trimester. In addition, during pregnancy, the cause of itching can be dysbacteriosis, which often plagues expectant mothers. An imbalance of microflora develops against a background of extreme stress on the immune system. After giving birth during the breastfeeding stage, a woman’s hormonal system continues to work in a special mode, adjusting to new functions, so during this period, uncharacteristic sensations in the groin area and perineum may also appear.

During menopause, there is a sharp decrease in estrogen, which is responsible for the protective properties of the epithelium of the genitourinary organs. This leads to dryness, flaking and, as a result, the labia majora and minora become very itchy.

If necessary, such problems can be solved by using local antipruritics, hormone replacement therapy, or drugs that enhance immunity.

How to relieve discomfort

Only comprehensive treatment prescribed by a qualified specialist can completely relieve symptoms.

But some measures can be taken before visiting a doctor to make life easier during diagnosis and examination:

When washing, you can use infusions of celandine, chamomile, string, or use a solution of furatsilin (1 tablet per 250 ml of water). The water for washing should not be cold, so as not to chill the genitals, but at the same time, you should not use hot water, so as not to burn the delicate skin.
If the epithelium is too dry, then you can use special pharmaceutical sprays and lubricants based on natural extracts.
You should avoid sex during treatment so as not to increase the already noticeable irritation.
It is necessary to exclude spicy foods, alcohol, and foods containing yeast and possible allergens from the diet.
You can use baths with infusion of sage, yarrow or St. John's wort. Soda baths also have an anti-inflammatory effect.
The development of fungal microflora is stopped by douching with a weak solution of potassium permanganate. After douching, the epithelium can be treated with borax in glycerin.
Tampons soaked in solutions of miramistin or chlorhexidine are successfully used for dysbacteriosis.
Creams and suppositories, such as micomazole, tioconazole or clotrimazole, work well as antipruritics. They cannot be used often, but they are quite suitable for quick relief of the condition. The ideal form of such preparations is gel-like, as it allows the product to be fully absorbed and provide quick results.
Rapid relief of symptoms occurs after irrigation with a soda-salt solution in boiled water. Such irrigation can be carried out up to 3 times a day, preferably at equal intervals.

Independent use of measures to relieve itching without additional therapy will not eliminate the complication, but will only weaken the symptoms and contribute to the transition of the underlying disease to a chronic form.

In order to prevent discomfort, you should adhere to preventive measures:

refuse panty liners;
do not use tight underwear made of non-natural materials;
avoid hypothermia of the pelvis and legs;
periodically take multivitamin complexes;
use barrier contraception methods;
undergo annual examinations with a gynecologist.

Compliance with these measures and careful care of your health will help not only get rid of all the troubles caused by such symptoms, but will help strengthen the immune system and a general positive attitude, which should be a woman’s constant companion.

All women face delicate problems in the intimate area. Sometimes their labia are very itchy, painful, or flaky. These conditions should not be ignored.

Itching of the genitals can be caused by harmless reasons: uncomfortable underwear or poor-quality products for caring for the intimate area. In other situations, a burning sensation confirms the presence of diseases (itching will be accompanied by other symptoms).

Why do the labia itch?

Conventionally, there are two main reasons that cause itching. The first is safe for women’s health. It is associated with third-party factors. This is irritation of delicate skin in response to poor-quality items, linen, and depilation.

The second group is disruptions in the functioning of the body. Itching is caused by gynecological pathologies, sexually transmitted diseases and diseases of the endocrine gland (diabetes mellitus).

Based on the pathology, women have pain and itching of the labia majora (external) or minor (inner) labia. In some cases, a burning sensation accompanies both the labia and the vulva.

When is itching safe?

Often, a burning sensation is caused by extraneous factors that do not cause serious harm to health. In these cases, itching is not accompanied by any additional symptoms (for example: no unusual discharge or pain when urinating).

The main causes of burning include:

Unsuccessful - the outer labia not only itch, but may also swell. Sometimes a burning sensation appears a few days after hair removal. Hair begins to grow back and irritates delicate skin.
Poor-quality intimate area care products - if soap or gel causes an allergic reaction, you should discard them and take any antihistamine.
Synthetic underwear – a similar reaction is caused by wearing tight panties and frequent use of scented panty liners.
The outer labia swell during pregnancy - they become filled with blood, swell and cause mild itching.

A burning sensation can be the body’s reaction to stressful situations or manifest itself as an allergy to any irritant.

Diseases of female organs

Vulvitis in diabetes mellitus

In this case, itching is one of the symptoms of gynecological diseases. The vaginal microflora includes beneficial microorganisms and opportunistic ones. Under favorable conditions (decreased immunity), bacteria begin to actively multiply, causing itching.

Common illnesses that cause burning include:

Vaginitis is a disease in which the lips and vagina become inflamed. Develops after an unsuccessful abortion, if the reproductive organs are injured, or as a result of a malfunction of the endocrine system. Women experience copious discharge with a pungent odor and impurities of pus.
Thrush – vaginal candidiasis occurs due to the active proliferation of Candida fungi. The disease develops with a persistent decrease in immunity (for example: after using antibiotics). Thrush is accompanied by striking symptoms: cheesy discharge, severe itching (lips major and minor are itchy), pain during and after sex, swelling and redness in the intimate area.
Vulvitis is an inflammation in which the upper labia swell. The infection is caused by staphylococci, streptococci or other microorganisms. The lips are red and itchy, women feel pain when emptying the bladder, and plaque is noticeable inside the labia majora.
Ganderellosis is a pathology characterized not only by a burning sensation, but also by discharge with a strong smell of rotten fish.
Acute period of endometriosis - this disease has an endocrine nature, but during the period of exacerbation, patients complain that their genitals are very itchy and bleeding is possible.
Leukoplakia is a pathology accompanied by the appearance of white plaques on the genitals.
Bartholinitis – located near the vagina. When it becomes inflamed, the genitals suffer. The vagina, lips and clitoris become red and swollen. Purulent ulcers appear on the vulva. Urination is also possible.

Venereal diseases

Itching accompanies most sexually transmitted diseases. Some of them are transmitted only through sexual contact, while others can be infected even by using the patient’s personal belongings.

Treatment of sexually transmitted diseases is prescribed only by a doctor (venereologist or gynecologist). Self-therapy will worsen the condition and can lead to infertility.

Trichomoniasis and gonorrhea

Severe burning is accompanied by copious discharge with serous-purulent contents and a pungent odor. In women, the labia, vulva and even the urethra hurt and swell.

Chlamydia

The disease can be transmitted through household means. Additional symptoms: women have pain in the lower abdomen and perineum, and the amount of discharge increases greatly. Itching begins after urination and sexual intercourse. Similar symptoms are observed with ureaplasmosis.

Genital herpes

The pathology is chronic and worsens with any decrease in immunity, even during allergies. Small pimples with purulent contents form on the skin in the intimate area. The papules burst and then peel off a little.

Pediculosis

If unpleasant symptoms appear, consult a gynecologist. After making a diagnosis, he will tell you how to treat the disease. The treatment regimen is individual and depends on what microorganisms caused the disease, the general condition of the woman, contraindications and a number of other factors.

Most sexually transmitted infections are treated with penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics. After recovery, itching and other symptoms disappear.

To treat gynecological diseases, suppositories, creams or other local therapy products are usually used. Sometimes doctors recommend that patients take antifungal tablets (for example, Fluconazole, Itraconazole). After treatment, the microflora of the vagina and intestines should be restored with the help of probiotics.

The treatment regimen for endocrine diseases is prescribed by an endocrinologist, based on the general well-being of the patient and the form of the disease.

During therapy, you should not have sex, avoid drinking alcohol and stick to a diet: limit fried, spicy and fatty foods, baked goods and sweets.

Preventive measures

Prevention will help reduce the risk of itching of the labia. However, this is not a panacea; in rare cases, these measures are powerless.

The main preventive measures include:

wearing underwear made from natural materials (linen or cotton). Even if you wear lace panties, the gusset should be made of cotton;
observe the rules of personal hygiene, but do not overdo it with the use of care products, they can cause irritation;
use barrier methods of contraception, especially when having sex with a casual or unfamiliar partner;
Strengthen your immune system: balance your diet, drink mineral and vitamin complex regularly, eliminate bad habits.

The delicate problem of dry labia can affect almost any woman at least occasionally. This unpleasant condition most often occurs in women before and after menopause. However, vaginal dryness, like a number of painful conditions, is now becoming noticeably younger, so this problem often worries young women.

To give significance to this not-so-rare phenomenon in our latitudes, the term was assigned to it atrophic vaginitis, but it represents only irritation of the vagina, which is a consequence of thinning and wrinkling of the tissues of the walls of this intimate organ, and a decrease in the amount of natural lubricant that is released from it. manifests itself in the form of discomfort and pain during sexual intercourse. In addition, bleeding of the vaginal walls may occur due to microtraumas that occurred during sexual intercourse without the necessary natural moisture of the vagina. In this case, itching and burning are usually annoying. Another unpleasant sign is a frequent and obvious urge to urinate.

Only at the moment of sexual arousal does a woman secrete a moisturizing lubricant from the vaginal walls. Dryness is felt when fluid either ceases to be produced or is produced in insufficient quantities.

Main causes of dry labia

During menopause, the level of estrogen, which is responsible for keeping the vagina in normal conditions of moisture and acidity, decreases. With a decrease, the natural defense weakens, which, given the thinness of the vaginal tissue, favors the penetration of infections, which is why the likelihood of open ulcers or cracks on the vaginal walls increases.

Dry labia may also occur as a result of allergic reactions to a number of hygiene products, such as lotions, soaps, gels, perfumes and others, which contain hard alkalis. When choosing preparations for intimate hygiene, you should prefer hypoallergenic products without the inclusion of dyes and flavors, with a pH level of four to four and a half, but the inclusion of fats should be very noticeable. However, you should not use such products specifically to reduce dryness of the labia, this is fraught with irritation or, worse, an inflammatory process.

The use of medications that suppress estrogen levels may also be a cause of vaginal dryness. These are, for example, antidepressants, atropine, blood pressure lowering drugs, desensitizing drugs, drugs for the treatment of uterine fibroids, diuretics, antihistamines, cardiovascular and stimulant drugs.

The causes of dry labia are oral contraceptives, in particular mini-pills using progesterone.

A feeling of dryness in the vagina also occurs in the last days before the onset of menstruation. Here, the level of estrogen is also significantly reduced, and the level of progesterone is increased, which leads to dryness.

Unnecessary habits, such as smoking and alcohol, disrupt the functioning of internal organs and cause changes in hormonal levels. Reduced blood flow to the vagina is fraught with atrophic changes. Smoking neutralizes the beneficial effects of estrogen on the body.

Chemotherapy and radiation treatment for a malignant tumor clearly inhibits the functions of internal organs, including the genital area.

Frequent and not always justified douching can contribute to the occurrence of dryness, since it disrupts the normal microflora of the vagina and damages the vaginal tissue.

A fairly common problem in the intimate area in women is itching of the labia minora and majora. It becomes so intolerable that it significantly affects the quality of life. A woman cannot normally go about her business during the day and sleep at night. But this is not an isolated symptom. Most likely, the following will also join:

redness and swelling of the genitals;
the appearance of discharge with a specific, unpleasant odor;
cracks and small abrasions that occur due to mechanical impact on the external genitalia (a woman simply cannot help but itch “there”, since the sensations, frankly speaking, are hellish);
due to the presence of damage, pain and burning occurs during urination;
painful sexual contact.

In the normal state of the genitourinary area, in particular the external organs, there are a priori no such sensations. So what do these symptoms indicate? Why do the labia itch?

Causes of the phenomenon

Genital itching can indicate many problems in a woman’s body, including diseases of the genital area. But the reasons for this manifestation are very diverse. First, let's consider subjective factors that directly depend on the person and can be eliminated even before such a clinical picture appears, if you know about them.

Now let's look at the objective factors (although if you look at them, they can be classified as conditionally subjective, since their presence entirely depends on an adequate response to the early manifestation of the problem).

changes in hormonal status (puberty, pregnancy, menopause, some hormonal pathologies, long-term use of hormonal contraception);
a small amount of vaginal lubrication - can occur both due to hormonal imbalances and as a physiological feature;
infectious pathologies transmitted through sexual contact without barrier contraception, sexually transmitted diseases;
fungal and bacterial infections of the mucous membranes of the genital organs;
metabolic disorders, weakened immunity;
stressful situations that arise regularly or prolonged stay in a state of psychological overstrain, prolonged depression;
diseases of the pelvic organs, gastrointestinal tract (especially accompanied by dysbiosis);
blood diseases and oncology.

This also includes the impact of the thermal factor - overheating or hypothermia of the body, which ultimately leads to a disruption of the immune response.

Itching without discharge

Itching in the labia minora and majora without discharge may indicate a pathology such as vulvodynia. This is a non-infectious disease, the nature of which is allergy or neuropathy.

Symptoms of the pathology are itching and pain in the intimate area, causing severe discomfort. Sensations arise out of nowhere, mainly in women of fertile age. The causes of the pathology are different: childbirth, abortion, rough sex, genital trauma. There is a high probability of this disease occurring due to stress or depression.

If the disease is caused by an allergen, it is important to find out its nature and eliminate its presence in everyday life. The itching will become less and eventually disappear altogether.

But often women with precisely this pathology require the help of not only a gynecologist, but also a psychotherapist or neurologist. Not only antihistamines, baths and local remedies for itching, but also antidepressants can be prescribed.

Itching with discharge

Due to changes in hormonal levels, unpleasant symptoms in the groin area such as itching and vaginal discharge may develop. The perineum itches, swells, and unpleasant-looking and smelling discharge appears. This phenomenon is observed in women during pregnancy, after childbirth during breastfeeding, in teenage girls at the stage of formation of the menstrual cycle and in women during menopause.

It is necessary to seek help even if the symptoms themselves begin to gradually disappear. It is necessary to find out the cause of the phenomenon and prescribe adequate treatment so as not to cause complications. This is especially important while expecting a baby, since a mother can infect her child, if not in the womb, then during birth.

Another serious pathology, which may be indicated by symptoms such as itching with discharge, is endometritis. In this condition, the walls of the uterus grow as the inflammatory process progresses. The labia majora swell and body temperature rises. The causes of this condition can be either banal inflammation or the presence of neoplasms, including cancer.

Itching, burning, swelling and the presence of discharge are also noted with the development of a number of pathologies. Their timely treatment will relieve a whole heap of problems. And for women of childbearing age, it will eliminate the risk of infertility.

Thrush

Almost 80% of women at least once in their lives have encountered a symptom where the labia minora itch, so intensely that it is impossible to sit quietly. In addition, white discharge appears, reminiscent of sour milk or cottage cheese. The smell is appropriate - sour, unpleasant, sometimes with onion “notes”. This is candidiasis, or simply thrush.

The causative agent of the disease is a representative of the opportunistic flora, a fungus of the genus Candida. It lives in the body of almost every healthy woman, without causing her any trouble, but for the time being. And this time comes along with a decrease in the level of lactobacilli, which “play the first violin in the orchestra” of the microflora of the genital organs, the vagina in particular.

The following signs of pathology are also present:

burning and pain when urinating;
swelling of the labia minora and majora;
redness of the entire perineum, accompanied by unpleasant sensations;
the formation of plaque on the genitals, reminiscent of sour milk.

Herpes

Most of the itching of the labia majora is caused by a herpetic infection. Small ones are also involved in the process, but it is the big ones who take the main and first “blow”.

The disease, as a rule, is a consequence of hypothermia or overheating of the body, a complication of a cold or viral disease. The symptoms are as follows (in increasing order):

redness of the outer labia, itching, swelling;
the transition of the same process to the small lips;
there is a feeling of burning, bloating;
the final stage is a blistering rash.

The most correct way out of this situation would be to immediately go to the hospital to determine the cause and prescribe therapy.

Sexual and household infections

There are a number of diseases in which itching of the intimate area with discharge indicates infection either at home or during unprotected sex. The route of infection, of course, is important, but this is unlikely to change the clinical picture, as well as the discomfort caused.

Athlete's groin is not a sexually transmitted disease. You can become infected with it by using other people's personal hygiene products, visiting public saunas and baths, swimming pools, or using unsterile gynecological instruments.
Vaginal dysbiosis can occur for several reasons. Among the most common are the sexual tract and the presence of the same process in the intestines. A decrease in the level of lactobacilli makes it possible to develop Gardnerella vaginalis, which is present in small quantities in the normal microflora.
Trichomoniasis is a purely sexual disease. It is transmitted during sex with a sick partner and manifests itself as pain during urination, burning and itching of the labia minora, yellow discharge, and a foul smell.

An extremely rare cause of itching in the groin is pubic lice and scabies mites. Lice are transmitted through sexual contact, scabies is transmitted through household contact. Treatment in both cases is short-lived and consists of the use of local remedies.

The main thing is prevention

A number of measures can be taken so that the labia do not itch at all, or this phenomenon becomes rare and quickly removable. There are five rules of behavior that will help you avoid uncomfortable symptoms, and, consequently, the root cause of their occurrence.

Personal hygiene. Use only individual products (soap, gels with neutral pH, other special detergents), towels, napkins. It is advisable to wash yourself twice a day, with decoctions of medicinal antiseptic herbs or a weak solution of potassium permanganate.
If such a problem occurs, during therapy, stop using cosmetics for intimate hygiene. And if vaginal dryness is caused by physiological reasons, use medications prescribed by the gynecologist.
Diet, especially during pregnancy. Intestinal dysbiosis tends to “play out” against the background of consumption of hot, spicy, fried and too salty foods. It is necessary to reduce their consumption, at least during the period of pregnancy.
Do not use panty liners regularly. They promote the development of bacterial microflora, which provokes itching and discharge.
Regular preventive consultations with a gynecologist - twice a year. This will help identify diseases of the reproductive system that may occur hidden and not bother you for the time being.

Wearing tight synthetic underwear, tight-fitting trousers, hypothermia or overheating of the body are the causes of various diseases of the intimate sphere.

Itching in the intimate area is a cause for concern in any case. The only thing that will help if such a problem occurs is a qualified doctor.