Just in case women didn't have enough to deal with down there, you can go ahead and add itching to the list of everything bad that can happen to the vagina.
Vaginal irritation is never a singular problem either.
Oh no, this mess is almost always a packaged deal that includes things like dryness, inflammation that shames you every time you pee, and/or some kind of unfortunate discharge.
We've all had those hard-to-reach back itches, itchy arms, and itchy legs, but at least tending to those wounds isn't super awkward and near-impossible to do in public.
Here are some of the possible reasons why your vagina is itchy, along with quick remedies to ease the itch ASAP.
1. Allergies
The fabric of your underwear may be irritating your vagina, or the type of fabric softener you're using could be the culprit.
It could also be a chemical reaction to a specific kind of soap, shaving cream, or the like that you've started using.
Combat sensitive skin with hypoallergenic products.
My personal favorite is Vagisil pH Balance Sensitive Wash because it's super gentle and smells nice and fresh.
2. Bad Bacteria
Yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis are among the most common causes of vaginal itchiness and develop when good bacteria goes bad.
Luckily, these types of infections are easily treatable with a topical cream or probiotic.
If itching doesn't subside gradually, though, consult your doctor, as you may need to be prescribed a stronger balm.
3. STDs/STIs
An itchy vagina can be a symptom of an STI, such as herpes, chlamydia, or gonorrhea, as well as STDs like HPV and trichomoniasis.
All the more reason to use protection, people.
4. Hormones
Ugh, hormones are such a hassle.
One minute they make you crave ungodly amounts of dark chocolate and cheese fries, and the next you're huddled in a corner crying for absolutely no reason at all, other than good ol' female genetics.
During your period, pregnancy, menopause, or even when taking birth control, hormones are imbalanced, which can lead to dryness, irritation, and itching.
5. Feminine Products
There's a reason you were taught to switch tampons and pads every few hours (aside from the obvious reason being that it's just gross not to).
Wearing these feminine products hours longer than recommended can result in bacteria build-up, irritation, and itching.
Always carry multiples of these products when you're on-the-go during menstruation for a quick change.
6. Condoms
Condoms are great for preventing pregnancy and all, but latex sure can be a pain (literally, in this case).
You may have an allergic reaction to the condoms you're using, in which case it's suggested you either switch brands, or find an alternative form of contraception.
7. Stress
When my aunt gets anxious, her arms get itchy, forcing her to scratch incessantly.
It's not uncommon for the body to react to stress by forcing you to scratch here, there, and everywhere – including the vagina.
What's interesting about stressful scratching is that, more often than not, the need to scratch is completely mental and self-inflicted.
This kind of self-soothing mechanism can turn into a habitual occurrence that creates microtears, leading to more scratching, and potential long-term harm for your body.
Though uncomfortable to discuss, it may be worth talking about the issue with a mental health expert to find an alternative solution.
8. Cancer
Vulvar cancer is the worst case scenario, and rest assured, it's extremely unlikely that women under 65 will develop the disease.
However, if the itching persists in combination with burning, and/or extreme discomfort, it is definitely worth seeing a doctor to make sure all is well down there.
