The article was professionally consulted by Doctor Thai Bang, Specialist level II, MSc, MD—Head of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department—Vinmec Nha Trang International General Hospital.
Genital itching causes significant inconvenience, affecting women's lives. However, many people do not know that stress is one of the main causes of genital itching in women.
1. What is genital itching?
Genital itching occurs due to the growth of bacteria, fungi, etc., in the genital area, causing skin diseases and resulting in an itchy and uncomfortable sensation.
2. Causes of genital itching
2.1 Improper genital hygiene
This is one of the leading causes of genital itching in women.
People who do not clean themselves after defecation or urination, do not change sanitary napkins regularly during menstruation, or do not clean themselves after sex may experience genital itching.
Sweat and urine, if not properly cleaned, will stimulate bacteria in the genital area, causing inflammation. If this occurs for a long time, it can develop into vaginitis, at which point the genital area may secrete green or yellow mucus.
Additionally, women should not shave their pubic hair. This hair protects the genital area from bacteria; shaving can cause scratches and discomfort. Experts advise trimming the hair instead, and avoiding razors or hair removal creams to prevent damage to the genital area.
2.2 Allergy
Women should not use regular shower gel and soap to clean the private area. These products are often strongly alkaline, changing the vaginal pH, causing “dryness” and “itching”.
Additionally, be careful when using laundry detergents and fabric softeners. Their ingredients may contain substances harmful to human health. Women should pay attention and stop using them immediately if they see any symptoms.
2.3 Skin Diseases
Skin diseases (ringworm, eczema, or psoriasis) can redness, irritation, and itching in the genital area.
2.4 Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Women are more susceptible to sexually transmitted diseases than men. Some common diseases include genital warts, genital herpes, trichomoniasis, and pubic lice. These diseases commonly cause irritation, red pimples, itching, and discomfort in the genital area. There may also be a yellow, fishy-smelling discharge, painful urination, or even blood in the urine.
2.5 Prolonged stress
Some studies have shown that stress is also a cause of genital itching. People experiencing prolonged stress often have a higher risk of hormonal disorders. At this time, bacteria may take advantage of the opportunity to invade the genitals, causing itching. In women in the premenopausal stage, decreased endocrine hormones thin the vaginal mucosa, causing the genitals to become “dry” and itchy.
3. Some Methods of Treating Vaginal Itching
When symptoms of vaginal itching appear, women should seek medical attention for a gynecological examination, where doctors will provide advice and treatment appropriate to each person's condition.
In cases of vaginal itching due to skin diseases, treatment may include oral antibiotics and topical medications to kill disease-causing bacteria and fungi.
In cases of vaginal itching due to prolonged stress, patients should adjust their lifestyle and rest properly; maintaining a positive outlook can alleviate itching.
Regular health check-ups and examinations will help promptly detect any abnormalities in the body, enabling timely treatment.
Currently, Vinmec International General Hospital offers gynecological screening packages for female patients to help detect inflammatory diseases early for easier treatment, at a reasonable cost, and for early detection of gynecological cancers (such as cervical cancer).
Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.
