How can a woman manage chronic private itching?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a female. I experience frequent itching in my private part, even though I keep it clean. I wash it with water every time I go to the washroom. It feels like itching always. I also use V-wash. I also shave it because it irritates and feels itchy, but I still feel itching. I do not know why or what to do. Sometimes I itch until I bleed because I cannot resist it. I do not know what happens to my private part.

Yeah, I have been facing it for years. Five years back, I guess I took some medication, but nothing happened. I am still facing itching.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

Chronic itching like this, even when you are keeping clean, usually points more towards an underlying vaginal infection or, sometimes, an allergy or irritation from products rather than hygiene itself. Overwashing and using intimate hygiene wash daily can actually disturb the natural pH (potential of hydrogen) and worsen itching.

The diagnosis would be chronic vulvovaginal candidiasis (recurrent candidal infection, with symptoms occurring four times or more per year) vs bacterial vaginosis (the most common cause of vaginal discharge; a type of vaginal infection caused by a change of normal bacteria), which would suggest a recurring fungal infection or bacterial imbalance resulting from douching/shaving.

You should undergo a vaginal swab with culture and sensitivity, along with a wet mount or pH test, and a blood sugar test, since recurrent infections can be linked to diabetes.

It is advised to stop daily intimate hygiene washes and use only plain water. Avoid scratching or shaving too frequently. Antifungal or antibiotic treatment may be required, but only after the swab result is available. Probiotics can help restore vaginal flora. Wear loose cotton underwear, avoid tight jeans, keep the area dry, and avoid scented products. Maintain regular blood sugar checks if there is a family history of diabetes.

Please get a vaginal swab test and share the report here. Only then can the exact medicines be decided; otherwise, itching will keep recurring.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.