Vaginal Itching Without Discharge - Causes and Preventive Measures

Introduction

Vaginal infections always bring about concern and distress. Plenty of vaginal infections are associated with discharge and itching, but certain conditions are not accompanied by any kind of discharge. Instead, there will be an awful itching sensation in and around the external vagina. Unfortunately, there is no specific age preference for the condition. It may develop in females over any group.

What Are the Different Causes That Could Lead To Vaginal Itching Without Discharge?

Vaginal irritation without associated discharge may happen due to diverse reasons. The severity, nature, and other associated symptoms vary greatly with the cause. Occasionally there will be an underlying skin condition, but it is not necessary to have one. Some of the possible reasons include the following:

Contact Dermatitis:

It is a form of skin allergy commonly known as allergy. The skin around the private parts (vulva and vagina) is delicate and extremely sensitive. Sometimes it flags an allergic response in the event of contact with certain materials and chemicals. Some chemicals that evoke an allergic response include soaps, douches, gels, creams, body washes especially scented ones, and certain products labeled as feminine hygiene products, such as tampons, pads, and menstrual cups. Extremely tight fitting inners may also cause skin irritation, eventually resulting in contact dermatitis. Vaginal lubricants, detergents, spermicides, and contraceptives like latex condoms may occasionally act as potential allergens.

It manifests various signs and symptoms like

• Red rash.

• Awful itching and scratching sensation.

• Skin appears dry and scaly with crack-like lesions.

• Soreness and pain.

• Swelling.

• Occasional blisters.

The treatment strategy for contact dermatitis includes the following:

• First, determine the agent that is causing this allergy.

• Then, stay away from that particular allergen.

• In most cases, once contact with the allergen is withdrawn, the symptoms resolve within a few days.

• If it does not resolve, topical corticosteroids or oral antihistamines are administered to calm down the skin.

Genital Herpes:

Genital herpes is a condition that is categorized under sexually transmitted diseases (STD). Herpes simplex virus (HSV 2) is the culprit behind genital herpes. It is characterized by symptoms like:

• Itchiness and prickling sensation in the vagina.

• Tiny blisters that occasionally break, forming sores, especially near the private parts.

• Raised body temperature.

• Lymph nodes become swollen and tender.

• Headaches and body aches.

• Weakness.

Though a complete cure is literally impossible, antiviral medicines like Acyclovir help tackle the symptoms greatly.

Lichen Sclerosus:

Lichen sclerosus is an infrequent condition affecting the skin, especially in the anogenital areas. The exact reason for the development of the condition is still obscure. Certain studies suggested its auto-immune nature, while others consider it as a hormonal issue. However, it is associated with numerous symptoms, like:

• Violent itching in the vulvar and vaginal areas.

• Penetrative sex becomes painful.

• White spots and patches in the affected areas.

• Blisters, later on, give rise to sores that bleed occasionally.

• Bowel movements accompanied by bleeding, pain, and itching.

• Persistent irritation and discomfort.

• Skin looks thinner and whiter.

There is no permanent cure for the condition; therefore, the treatment strategy aims at managing the potential symptoms. Topical steroids in the form of creams or gels and immune-modulating drugs are effective in managing the symptoms of lichen sclerosus.

Pubic Lice:

Pubic lice is a parasite that inhabits the body hair, especially in the pubic area, causing severe itching. It spread not only through intimate contact but also by sharing clothing or bedding. It is associated with very few symptoms:

• Itching.

• Very small blue-colored spots, particularly around the lower abdominal area.

• Annoyance and discomfort aggravate during the night.

It is often treated using topical lice shampoos. Most of them are available in pharmacies and do not require a prescription. However, severe cases require treatment using medicines like Malathion.

Eczema:

Eczema is another skin issue that is technically known by the term atopic dermatitis. It is a general skin condition that can develop anywhere in the body, including the genital areas. Innumerous factors trigger the development of eczema, and some of them are:

• Climate change.

• Disruptions in hormone level.

• Stress.

• As an allergy to certain eatables like milk products.

• The allergic response toward chemicals like perfumes, detergents, and synthetic clothing materials.

• Sweat.

It is distinguished by specific symptoms like:

• Skin appears extremely dry and flaky in nature.

• Aggressive scratchiness.

• Redness.

• Stinging sensation in the vestibule bridging vagina and urethra.

• Occasional flare-ups seen.

Identification of the precipitating factor aids in the treatment of the condition. Occasionally topical steroids work great for settling irritated skin.

Shaving Rash:

Shaving rash is another cause of severe scratchiness. Shaving burn is a synonym for shaving rash. As the name indicates, it develops as a sequel of shaving in the pubic area. While shaving, sometimes the razor disturbs the follicle by drawing it, which abruptly scrapes away the tissue. As a result, the skin appears irritated and reddened with an itchy, burning, and a scratchy sensation. This kind of lesion may also develop with waxing. It is a self-healing condition and apparently does not need any intervention.

Sweating:

Sometimes sweat that gets trapped in the genital area results in an itchy sensation. Sweat occasionally acts as an irritant on the skin; hence it is advised not to wear extremely tight-fitting innerwear.

Are There Any Preventive Measures?

Vaginal cleanliness is key in preventing all sorts of vaginal irritation and infections. However, the external vagina needs to be cleaned with water only, preferably warm water. The internal portion of the vagina is not supposed to be cleaned. Therefore, there is no need for chemicals available in the market under the label of personal hygiene products to ensure vaginal cleanliness. In addition, wearing clean, cotton undergarments that are quite breathable can check sweat collection and prevent subsequent irritation. While washing innerwear, always prefer milder detergents.

Conclusion

There are diverse reasons for vaginal itching that are not in any way related to atypical vaginal discharge. Vaginal itching is annoying as well as embarrassing and considerably affects the quality of life. However, most vaginal itching subsides upon simple treatment and does not require extensive interventions.