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Itching in the intimate area in women: why it itches, how to treat. Itching, swelling, burning, dryness, pimples and cracks on the labia minora and labia majora: causes, treatment. How to treat itching and swelling of the labia during pregnancy, after sex? Relieve genital itching

Remember that proper intimate hygiene is the main prevention of itching and burning. If such symptoms appear, then you should consult a doctor, he will make a diagnosis based on laboratory tests. Discomfort is not a disease, but its consequence, meaning that there is an inflammatory process and infection. Most often, during the disease, various discharges are observed (bloody, white, yellow, etc.), less often it does without discharge.

May be accompanied by pain in the labia, swelling, frequent urination, pain symptoms during intercourse, constant burning sensation in the vagina, perineum, external genitalia.

Causes of itching

The development of the pathogenic flora of the vagina (candidiasis, gardnerellosis, bacteriological vaginosis). Severe itching begins, which is reinforced by copious discharge (cheesy, yellow, yellow, odorous and odorless)
Sexually transmitted infections (trichomoniasis, chlamydia, genital herpes)
Inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs (cervicitis, adnexitis, endometritis, cervical erosion, etc.)
Allergy to used contraceptives (lubricant and its material of the male condom, birth control pills and creams)
Food allergies (citrus fruits, nuts, seafood, spicy seasonings)
Poor hygiene of the genitals or too thorough with washing out of beneficial bacteria in the vaginal area
Injuries during childbirth, operations (fistulas)
Hormonal changes due to endocrine diseases
Menopause (hormone production decreases, there is a feeling of tightness and dryness)
External causes (mechanical friction with underwear, stress, emotional overstrain, fever or sudden cooling)

During pregnancy

Pregnancy is a complex process that occurs in a woman's body, overshadowed by its own characteristics: nausea, vomiting, swelling, redness and itching of the genitals. Often they are also worried about itching in the vagina, the causes of which may be a lack of hygiene, underwear made of synthetic lace that presses on the genitals, fragrances in pads, etc.

Itching in women carrying a child may also indicate diabetes, problems with the kidneys, hormonal levels, the thyroid gland, and the microflora of the vagina. The most common cause of this itching may be Candida, which causes thrush. It affects 70% of pregnant women. Fungal infection occurs due to a decrease in immunity. This disease is characterized by acrid secretions similar to cottage cheese, severe itching. In the treatment, doctors most often recommend candles that fight candidiasis.

Where to start treatment?

There are a lot of reasons for this phenomenon, in connection with this, the effect on the focus of inflammation is also chosen. For example, if all this is due to tight or synthetic underwear, you can simply wear cotton and looser ones, and the problem is fixed. How to relieve itching if the cause is not established, but it is impossible to cope on your own and with improvised means?

The correct opinion of doctors on this phenomenon, if itching does not stop for three days, and the discharge and swelling increase, it is imperative to undergo a medical examination and diagnose the cause that caused the inflammatory process.

Along with drug exposure, dietary restrictions are usually suggested: alcohol, fatty and high-calorie foods. But before that, you should properly prepare for a visit to the doctor. To do this, do not use drugs for 1-2 days, do not have sex. It is also better to wait with antibacterial therapy, it will be difficult for the doctor to establish the causes.

It is best for hygiene to use baby soap without cosmetic fragrances and additives. The results of the tests will be more truthful if the woman does not douche before visiting the doctor for a day or two. This is how the microflora of the vagina is preserved.

Folk remedies for women's health

Folk recipes based on plant extracts are endowed with the most smoky effect. They tend to have antibacterial and regenerative properties.

Two teaspoons of nettle, chamomile or calendula should be poured into 500 grams of boiling water and infused for 2 hours. The resulting herbal infusion is used for douching at night, the course consists of 5-7 procedures.
If the itching becomes unbearable, take about 5 grams of fir oil and cocoa butter (20-25 grams), heat in a water bath to a boil and cool. The resulting composition is impregnated with a swab or tightly folded gauze and placed in the vagina overnight. You should first douche with water and baking soda.
Prepare a decoction of taken herbs in equal proportions: hops (cones), St. John's wort, birch, calendula, succession, chicory. The mixture is poured with boiling water, infused and consumed inside 180-200 grams half an hour before meals.

Quick help when a doctor is not around

There are situations when severe itching in the vagina catches on the road, at work, at a party, where there is no way to go to the doctor. But what to do and how to get rid of itching?

Perhaps this is an allergic reaction, try to find the cause and remove the irritating factor

Apply Vagisil cream to the outer labia, lie down with a bottle of ice water wrapped in a towel against the perineum. Attention: do not overdo it, do not apply ice, to avoid cooling
Another quick and affordable medicine is Clotrimazole. It comes in several forms, as a cream and as a suppository for itching. You can use its analogues with the active active ingredient fluconazole.
You can also temporarily relieve discomfort with the help of allergy medications, such as suprastin.
You can not eat products with a yeast base: kvass drinks, pastries, vinegar, grapes and raisins, bread, alcohol.

Itching medications

Medicines that can help in this case are different, it all depends on the cause of the symptoms. If somewhere you can just change the means for intimate care, then in another case it can be antibacterial therapy with a lot of tests and procedures. For the latter, the doctor usually prescribes several types of drugs: suppositories (usually used every night until the discomfort subsides), ointments (used daily, can be supplemented with other medicines as prescribed by the doctor).

The drugs themselves and their active substances are recommended by the doctor, depending on the results of the analysis and the individual characteristics of the patient. The course of the disease itself is a significant factor. Recently, gynecologists speak very well of creams in the vagina, because they spare the delicate microflora of the female genital organs, although they are slightly less effective than candles. But foams and gels have an even weaker effect than ointments. Remember that only a doctor can prescribe treatment, do not self-medicate with medicines, you can aggravate your problems and undermine your health.

When taking medications or treating folk remedies, a woman should remember that the success of treatment depends not only on the active substances of the drug, but also on an integrated approach. To do this, you need to produce proper hygiene of the genital organs at least 3-4 times a day. They are made with or without toilet soap, all products for intimate hygiene with fragrances, including toilet soap, are completely excluded.

A woman should completely refuse from sexual intercourse and pads for every day for the period of treatment. The patient must be attentive to his diet: avoid hot spices, high-calorie foods, alcohol. One of the important points can be called the prevention of hypothermia, so you should dress warmly when going outside.

The female body is a very complex mechanism, so you should pay attention to the slightest changes, pain, discomfort, dryness of the mucous membranes. You should be attentive to health, if the symptoms are observed for a long time, it is better to visit a doctor without delay, without self-medication.

Remember: itching in the vagina always has causes: a sexually transmitted disease, menopause, an infectious disease, a fungus, and others. It is necessary to respond to its symptoms in time and consult a doctor in a timely manner.

Causes of itching in intimate places

In most cases, itching in intimate places indicates that some kind of pathology is present in the body. As a rule, the causes of itching in intimate places lie in:

fungal lesions of the inguinal region (inguinal epidermophytosis);
inflammation of skin structures with bacterial etiology;
contact dermatitis;
wet or dry eczema;
pubic pediculosis or scabies;
infectious diseases of the genitourinary system;
hormonal disorders and diabetes;
diseases of the liver and biliary tract.

In addition, there are other causes of genital itching:

stressful situations;
the onset or non-standard course of menopause (for women), which is why itching in an intimate place can be noticed literally immediately;
(for men);
allergic reactions to personal hygiene products, to sanitary pads, to the fabric from which the underwear is sewn, also form the causes of itching in the groin;
treatment with antibacterial or other drugs;
improper personal hygiene or excessively frequent washing with scented products.

Itching of the external genitalia

Basically, itching of the external genitalia is caused by biologically active substances produced by the protective cells of the body, which dilate blood vessels and irritate nerve receptors.

The "culprit" of the appearance of severe itching of the external genital organs in this case is histamine, and the intensity of such a manifestation depends on the cause that caused it, the degree of neglect of the process and the individual characteristics of the organism.

Treatment of itching of the external genital organs is carried out by taking antihistamines, but it can only bring temporary relief. Itching of the external genital organs should be eliminated in combination with the disease that caused it.

How to relieve itching

The question of how to relieve itching of the genitals worries everyone who encounters it. However, there is no definite answer to it due to the fact that such itching can be caused by various diseases. Prior to the start of treatment prescribed by a specialist, it will help to remove such manifestations:

washing the genitals with a decoction of St. John's wort;
taking sitz baths with a decoction of sage or chamomile;
rinsing the genitals with a decoction of mint;
washing the genitals before going to bed with a decoction of tannery.

It should be remembered that the above remedies bring only a temporary effect, and only a doctor can give the final answer to the question of how to treat itching of the genital organs.

Itching and burning in the anus

Quite often, itching and burning in the anus can be both a completely independent ailment, and one of the manifestations of a disease.

In most cases, these symptoms are associated with the presence of:

helminthic invasion by pinworms;
anal fissures, hemorrhoids, anogenital warts and;
scabies, pediculosis, seborrheic eczema, lichen planus, psoriasis, fungal infections, eczema and allergic dermatitis;
amoebiasis, teniidosis, opisthorchiasis, giardiasis;
gastritis, polyposis, colitis, dysbacteriosis, dyskinesia;
contact dermatitis caused by allergic reactions to ointments, soaps, deodorants and washing powders;
gonorrheal-trichomonas infection;
cancer, intoxication, diabetes.

In addition, itching and burning in the anus can be associated with:

frequent shaving around the anus;
using coarse toilet paper;
wearing stale underwear, underwear made of synthetic fabrics or thongs with coarse seams;
the use of antibiotics (especially tetracycline drugs and erythromycin);
excessive alcohol consumption;
drug use;
the presence of mental disorders;
eating certain foods, such as spicy foods;
overweight or excessive sweating.

Itching in diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is a severe systemic pathology characterized by insufficient production of the hormone insulin by the pancreas and a violation of all metabolic processes in the body. Basically, itching in intimate places in diabetes mellitus is caused by damage to large and small blood vessels.

As a result of the disease, the circulatory system loses the ability to fully provide organs and tissues with oxygen, glucose and the required nutrients, which, of course, is accompanied by certain disorders in the body:

a decrease in immunity, manifested in the inability to resist fungal, bacterial and viral infections, as well as dysbacteriosis. They also cause itching in an intimate place in diabetes;
structural changes in the mucous membranes and skin, leading to dryness, damage and microcracks, as well as causing itching of the genital organs in diabetes.

Itching after antibiotics

As a rule, itching of the genital organs after antibiotics is one of the manifestations of dysbacteriosis. This is due to the fact that antibiotics, designed to combat pathogens, simultaneously destroy representatives of healthy microflora.

All this leads to a serious imbalance of the natural microflora and the active reproduction of pathogenic fungi and bacteria penetrating the body.

Predisposing factors for this condition are:

decrease in general and local immunity as a result of acute and chronic diseases;
increased allergenic background of the patient;
hormone therapy;
pregnancy;
improper observance of hygiene rules;
alcohol intake;
acclimatization.

There are 2 main types of such itching:

allergic itching in an intimate place - can be caused by certain foods, medicines, personal care products, latex and condom lubricants, lubricants, as well as local contraceptives - suppositories, vaginal tablets and creams;
itching in the groin and armpits is a fairly common phenomenon, both among men and women. Itching under the armpits and in the groin is often erythrasma, requiring medical treatment, which should be prescribed by a doctor.

Itching of the genitals in children

In most cases, genital itching in children is associated with:

allergic reactions to washing powder, personal hygiene products;
wearing too tight or synthetic underwear that can cause itching of the genitals in a child;
helminthic invasion;
the ingress of pathogenic bacteria from the anus, with this localization also provoking itching in the groin in children;
improper observance of the rules of personal hygiene;
fungal diseases;
inflammatory processes.

Itching in girls

Basically, itching of the genitals in girls can be associated with the ingress of bacteria from the microflora of the rectum into the vagina. This is due to poor observance of the rules of personal hygiene and the immaturity of the mucous membranes, which is why the phenomenon of itching of the labia in a child is widespread.

Itching of the genitals in girls is distinguished by its localization:

itching of the labia in girls. He can talk about developing vulvovaginitis, provoked by pathogenic microflora. Also, itching of the labia in a girl may be due to a decrease in immunity, taking antibiotics; itching in the vagina in a girl. Most often, itching in the vagina in a child, accompanied by discharge of any color that has an unpleasant odor, signals vulvovaginitis. This disease is an inflammatory process that occurs in the vulva and vagina. One way or another, if you have such symptoms, you should consult a doctor.

Itching in boys

Quite often, itching of the genital organs in boys accompanies a disease such as balanoposthitis. It is an inflammatory process that captures the glans penis and the inner leaf of the foreskin. In addition to itching, the disease is accompanied by a burning sensation in the head, swelling and redness of the foreskin, difficulty urinating and purulent discharge from the preputial sac.

The main cause of balanoposthitis is improper care of the genitals, leading to the accumulation of smegma under the foreskin, which is an excellent breeding ground for pathogenic microorganisms. It is this process that causes itching in the boy's groin.

In addition, balanoposthitis may be associated with:

the presence of physiological phimosis;
the presence of Escherichia coli, yeast fungi, staphylococci, streptococci, proteus, herpes virus;
overzealous hygiene of the genitals and frequent washing of the glans penis with soap or other irritants;
allergic reactions to creams and washing powders;
injury to the foreskin;
endocrine and urological diseases;
hypothermia.

Cure for itching in the groin

As mentioned above, itching in the groin can be caused by many diseases. Therefore, the cure for itching in the groin should be selected based on the cause that caused it. Thus, when itching appears, you should consult a doctor who will write out a detailed treatment plan for the disease.

It is worth noting that the basis of the treatment of itching in the groin is:

elimination of the cause of itching;
local treatment;
complex treatment.

Before contacting a doctor, you should not try to eliminate the causes of itching on your own, using the available medications: this will not only not bring relief, but will also significantly complicate the diagnosis.

Ointments

To date, ointments for itching in the groin can be divided into 2 categories:

ointments that have a distracting effect and do not directly affect the cause of the disease;
ointments of complex action, relieving symptoms and eliminating the cause that caused itching.

The main drugs of this action are the following ointments for itching of the genital organs:

boromenthol;
nezulin;
histane;
festinin;
hormonal ointments;
antimicrobial ointments.

In addition, pharmaceutical companies now offer anti-itch creams as well. However, it is much more difficult to choose an intimate cream for itching, and their effectiveness is not as high as that of ointments. One way or another, here you need to consult a doctor.

Treatment with folk remedies

In most cases, the treatment of itching in the groin with folk remedies is aimed at relieving symptoms, and not at eliminating the cause of the disease. The decoctions used in this case have anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, bactericidal, fungicidal, healing accelerating and immunostimulating effects.

The group of anti-inflammatory and antipruritic agents includes decoctions and infusions of chamomile, calendula, celandine, St. John's wort, succession, oak bark, yarrow. Garlic and celandine have a bactericidal and fungicidal effect. Calendula, yarrow, St. John's wort and chamomile help to speed up the healing of damaged mucous membranes.

Berries of cranberries, lingonberries, wild roses, chokeberries have a general strengthening effect.

Associated symptoms

In most cases, the symptoms of itching in the groin indicate the presence of a disease. Which one exactly? Let's try to figure it out below.

Peeling

Peeling and itching in the groin can be caused by fungal diseases of the groin, in addition to the aforementioned manifestations, accompanied by redness, burning, rash, and even pain when walking. Itching and flaking of the skin in the groin are treated with topical antifungal agents with strict personal hygiene.

In addition, peeling and itching in the groin can be associated with:

allergic reactions of the body;
the presence of infectious diseases;
the presence of a scabies mite;
with the presence of the herpes virus.

red spots

Quite often, itching in the groin and red spots can be triggered by allergic reactions - for example, to synthetic underwear and intimate hygiene products.

In addition, spots and itching in the groin are characteristic of athlete's groin, a contagious fungal disease, the main manifestations of which are ring-shaped spots. This disease requires treatment prescribed by a doctor.

Rash

In most cases, rash and itching in the groin are associated with the following reasons:

wearing tight underwear;
using unsuitable hygiene products;
with improper observance of the rules of personal hygiene;
with candidiasis of the skin folds, causing a rash in the groin and itching;
with pemphigus;
with erythrasma;
with psoriasis.

Pain

The reasons why itching and pain in the groin appear are different. These can be sexually transmitted diseases, viral infections and fungal diseases. Moreover, in this case, only a doctor should be engaged in determining the belonging of a particular symptom to any disease.

curdled discharge

It should be noted that itching, burning, with a sour smell, are one of the symptoms (thrush) caused by an opportunistic fungus of the genus Candida, which is part of the normal microflora of the intestinal and vaginal mucosa in low quantities.

If there is itching, burning, no discharge, then this may mean that the disease is in the initial stage. Be that as it may, itching, burning and discharge together cannot be observed in an absolutely healthy person, therefore, consultation and examination of a doctor - a gynecologist, andrologist, dermatologist or urologist is necessary.

Thank you

The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases should be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Expert advice is required!

Itchy called a specific skin reaction that causes a strong desire to scratch the itchy area. Itching can occur on almost any part of our body, but one of the most unpleasant sensations is itching of the genitals. This symptom is much more common in women, although with a number of diseases, itching and irritation of the genital organs in men can be observed. Such sensations arise due to a mass of different reasons, and in each individual case require appropriate treatment.

What causes genital itching?

In the vast majority of cases, itching is only a symptom of a problem or disease, and not an independent pathology. All the causes of this symptom can be divided into 4 large groups:

1. The impact of the external environment on the external genitalia. This group includes:

pollution (for example, dust pollution of the air and / or linen during work in the workplace);
violations of the rules of intimate hygiene, regular neglect of showering and washing, rare replacement of pads or tampons during menstruation;
temperature effects (for example, severe prolonged hypothermia or overheating);
mechanical irritants: wearing synthetic underwear that creates the effect of a "greenhouse", or coarse underwear; excessively frequent washing and douching of the vagina, the constant use of daily scented pads;
the use of certain potent drugs for external or internal use;
contact with irritating chemicals.

2. Causes that are based on the pathology of the internal genital organs. This section includes:

pathological discharge in women with inflammatory processes in the uterus and its neck;
chemical irritation of the external genital organs in women with urine that occurs during the act of urination in the presence of, for example, congenital urogenital fistulas;
other hidden inflammatory processes in the genital area.

3. Pathologies from other internal organs:

hepatitis with severe yellowness of the skin;
chronic inflammatory disease of the kidneys and bladder associated with significant impairment of their functions;
various diseases of the hematopoietic organs (lymphogranulomatosis, anemia, leukemia);
violations of the normal functioning of the endocrine glands, for example, with increased or decreased thyroid function, increased levels of the hormone prolactin, as well as a decrease in the synthesis of sex hormones;
cancers, which greatly weaken the defense mechanisms of our body, especially when using potent medications.

4. Mental factors: strong and prolonged stress, fears of upcoming surgery, nervous disorders, depression, etc. Most often, this group of factors is typical for women, and leads to pathology in impressionable, emotional personalities.

In addition to all of the above, one of the causes of itching of the vulva in women requiring treatment may be vaginal dysbacteriosis. In recent years, this pathology is increasingly observed in women of different ages. Dysbacteriosis is a violation in the normal microflora of the vagina, in which there are fewer beneficial bacteria in it than pathogenic ones. One of the most common types of vaginal dysbacteriosis is candidiasis, or thrush, the symptoms and treatment of which will be described below.

Age and hormonal changes in the female body

The age group to which the patient belongs is very important. In the presence of itching of the external genital organs in children (in girls and girls), it is first necessary to suspect the presence of infectious diseases. A frequent impetus to the appearance of itching at this age is vulvovaginitis or fungal lesions of the mucous membranes of the genital organs. In women of childbearing age, such symptoms are most often caused by a disease such as diabetes mellitus.

Hormonal fluctuations

The female body throughout life experiences quite significant changes in hormonal levels. These include both the monthly fluctuations associated with the menstrual cycle and more dramatic ones such as pregnancy or menopause. During these hormonal surges, a large number of changes are observed in the mucous membrane of the external genital organs, and their acidity also changes. These factors lead to the fact that the activity of pathogens increases, which cause discomfort.

For example, hormonal changes in a woman's body before menstruation are one of the main causes of itching during this period of the menstrual cycle. Another reason for genital itching before menstruation can be emotional vulnerability, which also affects hormonal levels.

Itching during menstruation

Menstrual flow is a very favorable environment for the growth and reproduction of pathogenic bacteria. In addition, these days the immune defense of the female body is significantly weakened. Failure to follow the rules of intimate hygiene during this period can very quickly lead to the appearance of itching of the vulva associated with the development of an infectious disease.

Whether to use tampons or pads is a matter of personal preference. But it should be noted that, for example, against the background of an inflammatory disease of the genital organs or urinary tract, as well as after childbirth, it is highly not recommended to use hygienic tampons. During menstruation, sanitary pads should be changed approximately every 4-6 hours, regardless of the total amount of discharge.

Itching during pregnancy

Skin itching in the perineum is one of the possible adverse manifestations of pregnancy. The cause of itching of the external female genital organs during pregnancy is also in the changes in the hormonal background of the female body. These fluctuations provoke a decrease in the protective capabilities of the immune system, cause changes in the local microflora of the vagina, as well as the growth and reproduction of pathogenic bacteria. When characteristic complaints appear, it is necessary to go to the hospital to an obstetrician-gynecologist and take tests. Detection and timely treatment of identified diseases can not only make life easier for a pregnant woman with genital itching, but in some cases save the child.

Itching of the genitals after childbirth

With the end of pregnancy, the female body does not immediately return to its normal state. Often, it takes a significant amount of time to restore hormonal levels. And during this period, while the "hormonal storm" in the woman's body has not yet subsided, it is also vulnerable to infectious lesions. The use of local therapy and drugs that increase the body's defenses, quite easily allows you to cope with itching of the genital organs after childbirth.

Itching of the genitals with menopause

This symptom in women during menopause is most often due to a decrease in the level of female sex hormones in the blood. This leads to metabolic disorders in the mucous membranes and the appearance of itching of the genital organs during menopause.

In medical practice, there is a special diagnosis - kraurosis of the vulva. With this disease, the itching can be so debilitating and severe that it sometimes leads a woman to a nervous breakdown. Typically, this disease occurs in women in menopausal age. The reason for this state of modern medicine considers a sharp drop in the production of female sex hormones in this period. These hormones have a protective effect on the mucous membranes of the urinary tract. With their decrease, the mucous membranes become very fragile, thinner, which leads to itching, dryness and peeling of the genital organs without secretions. In such cases, complex treatment is carried out, which includes both general strengthening drugs, vitamins and hormones, as well as local remedies containing antipruritic components.

If the disease has been going on for a long time, with constant scratching, a large number of cracks, abrasions and other damage to the skin and mucous membranes are formed. Sometimes these lesions can even degenerate into ulcers that are quite extensive in area. Subsequently, an infectious lesion may occur in the area of such mechanical injuries. As a result, vulvovaginitis or vulvitis joins. In addition, there is often a combination of itching and swelling of the genital organs, their redness and inflammation.

Diagnosis of genital itching

It is quite easy to establish a diagnosis in the clinic by questioning the patient, as well as during the examination. In the early stages of the disease in the perineum and vulva, many abrasions and scratches can be detected on the skin. Often in these places there is excessive dryness of the skin. If this symptom is associated with an infectious disease, then you can observe the appearance of abundant vaginal discharge; the skin around, on the contrary, becomes moist. Its color also changes - it acquires a whitish tint. When examining the labia minora and labia majora, it is noted that they acquire a much coarser and denser, compared to normal, consistency, which is due to edema.

The most common diseases accompanied by itching of the genital organs

infections

The most common causes leading to genital itching in both male and female patients are various infectious lesions. With such diseases, it is important to first determine the pathogen.
In the vast majority of cases, the cause of genital itching is the following infectious pathologies:

candidiasis;
fungal diseases (in particular, epidermophytosis inguinal);

Itching is often accompanied by disturbances in the normal composition of the vaginal microflora. The most common violation of this plan is candidiasis (thrush), and gardnerellosis.
Both of these pathological conditions are characterized by two points:
1. Inhibition of the development of normal microflora (lactobacilli) in the genital tract.
2. The growth and reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms that are normally found in the genital tract in very small quantities.

Candidiasis

Candidiasis is caused by yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida. These microorganisms are part of the normal microflora of the oral cavity, vagina and colon in most healthy people. The occurrence of pathology is due not just to the presence of these fungi, but to their growth and reproduction in large quantities. Most often, candidiasis develops with a decrease in the functions of the immune system.

Symptoms of candidiasis
With this pathology, in men, the head of the penis and the foreskin are usually affected, and in women, the external genital organs and the mucous membrane of the vagina.

Symptoms of candidiasis in women:

cheesy whitish vaginal discharge with a sharp unpleasant odor;
burning, itching and redness of the genitals;
pain during intercourse.

Symptoms of candidiasis in men:

itching, burning and redness of the foreskin and head of the penis;
the appearance of white plaques on the head of the penis;
pain during intercourse;
pain when urinating.

Drugs for candidiasis
To date, there is a wide variety of drugs for the treatment of this pathology. Some of them are applied topically (creams, vaginal suppositories or tablets), some - inside (capsules or tablets).

Treatment of candidiasis in men
Candidal balanoposthitis (inflammation of the foreskin and head of the penis) is completely curable with local therapy. Apply usually cream with clotrimazole. It must be applied in a thin layer to the affected areas twice a day for a week. Perhaps a single oral administration of 150 mg of fluconazole.

Treatment of thrush in women
If vulvovaginal candidiasis is mild and its symptoms, including itching and irritation, are not pronounced, only topical treatment will suffice.
Preparations for local therapy (vaginal suppositories or tablets) include:

clotrimazole is the most common topical treatment;
isoconazole;
miconazole.

In addition, with a mild course of pathology, instead of local therapy, a single use of 150 mg of fluconazole orally is possible. Often, treatment is also prescribed that complements antifungal drugs (fortifiers, immunotherapy, etc.). Symptomatic treatment includes the use of drugs for genital itching.

At the end of therapy and the removal of all symptoms of the pathology, it is necessary to restore the natural microflora of the vagina with the help of preparations containing lactobacilli.

Gardnerellosis

This is one of the most common infectious diseases of the female genital area. It is characterized, as in the case of candidiasis, by the replacement of normal vaginal microflora with opportunistic pathogens. In the male genitourinary system, gardnerella are much less common than in women. This is due to the peculiarities of the structure of the mucous membrane of the genitourinary system in men, and the lack of favorable conditions for the growth and development of microorganisms in it.

Symptoms of gardnerellosis
In almost 90% of men and half of women, gardnerellosis proceeds secretly, and does not show any symptoms. However, the carrier of the infection continues to infect his sexual partners with it.

The main symptom of this disease in women is a grayish-white discharge from the vagina, which has a characteristic unpleasant "fishy" odor. Almost always, severe itching and burning of the female external genitalia are very pronounced.

After contact with a sick partner in men, in rare cases, symptoms of inflammation of the urethra, foreskin and head of the penis (balanoposthitis) may be observed. Sometimes gardnerella is found during prostate secretion studies - this indicates the possible role of these microorganisms in the development of prostatitis.

Treatment of gardnerellosis
Self-treatment of this disease often gives only temporary results, which can lead to a transition to a chronic form and the development of various complications. It is necessary to be treated together with a sexual partner, otherwise re-infection will inevitably occur.

In the treatment of gardnerellosis, drugs are primarily used that directly destroy the causative agent of the disease. These include medicines containing metronidazole, clindamycin, and tinidazole. They can be taken by mouth or injected into the vagina as gels, suppositories, or creams, except for tinidazole, which is only available in tablet form. During treatment with tinidazole or metronidazole, it is not recommended to drink alcohol, as this may cause abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.

On average, gardnerellosis therapy lasts from 7 to 10 days. The most commonly used is metronidazole, with tablets being more effective than topical treatments. Unfortunately, relapses of gardnerellosis are observed in approximately every third patient, so additional therapy may be necessary.

The second stage of treatment of gardnerellosis is aimed at restoring the natural microflora of the vagina. For this purpose, eubiotics are used - preparations containing beneficial lactobacilli. Most often they are used in the form of vaginal suppositories. Lactobacilli inhibit the development of pathogens in the vagina, including gardnerella.

Herpes

Genital herpes is a disease characterized by an undulating course. Periods of exacerbation, which begin with itching or burning of the genitals, and end with the appearance of blisters, always alternate with calm periods when there are no signs of the disease. Exacerbations of herpes are almost always associated with violations of the body's defenses, therefore, in addition to local remedies for the successful treatment of this disease, drugs that strengthen the immune system are also always prescribed.

Inguinal epidermophytosis

This is a fungal skin disease, one of the symptoms of which is itching and burning in the groin. Infection usually occurs through household items that patients use: sponges, washcloths, oilcloths, linen, etc., as well as when hygiene rules are violated when visiting pools, baths or showers.

The development of the disease is also promoted by increased sweating, high humidity and ambient temperature, damage and excessive hydration of the skin. Men get sick more often.

Symptoms
The main symptom of inguinal epidermophytosis is the appearance on the skin of pink scaly spots up to 1 cm in diameter with inflammation in the center. Gradually, these spots grow along the periphery, and inflammation in the center of the spot decreases until it disappears completely. As a result, very large, up to 10 cm in diameter, ring-shaped inflammatory foci of red color are formed.

The boundaries of these spots are sharp, and are emphasized by a bright edematous inflammatory roller, which has bubbles on its surface. The central part of the spot, as the rash spreads across the skin, will remain clean - this is a characteristic sign of inguinal epidermophytosis.

Most often, it is the inguinal regions that are affected, which is reflected in the name of the disease, as well as the scrotum and inner thighs. In more rare cases, the disease is localized in the intergluteal fold, sometimes spreading to the anus. The interdigital spaces on the feet are also much less commonly affected, and very rarely the nails.

Treatment of inguinal epidermophytosis
In the acute period, lotions are applied to the affected areas from a 1% solution of resorcinol and a 0.25% solution of silver nitrate. In addition, ointments "Triderm" and "Mikozolon" are used. For oral administration, antihistamines are prescribed (suprastin, claritin), and after the elimination of the bubbles, antifungal external agents are used, such as lamisil, mycoseptin, nizoral, clotrimazole, etc.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis refers to diseases that are sexually transmitted. Its causative agent is Trichomonas vaginalis. Trichomoniasis is considered one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases.

Trichomoniasis in women is manifested by inflammation of the vagina (colpitis), cervix (cervicitis) and glands that secrete lubricant during intercourse. In men, inflammation of the urethra (urethritis) and the prostate gland (prostatitis) are most common in this disease.

Symptoms
Symptoms of trichomoniasis in women:

redness and itching of the genitals;
vaginal discharge, usually yellowish, often foul-smelling;
pain during sexual intercourse;

In men, this disease in most cases is asymptomatic. But sometimes the following symptoms are observed:

itching of the male genital organs;
burning and pain when urinating;
discharge from the urethra;
symptoms of prostatitis with damage to the prostate gland.

Therapy of trichomoniasis
Treatment of uncomplicated acute trichomoniasis includes oral metronidazole (trichopolum) 2 g once or 500 mg twice a day for 1 week. In some cases, additional treatment is prescribed in the form of immunotherapy, prostate massage, etc.

Scabies is a contagious disease that occurs when a scabies mite enters the skin. It is accompanied by severe itching (especially at night) and skin lesions caused by the fact that the pathogen makes moves in the skin of the patient. Scabies by itself never goes away, therefore, with this pathology, treatment is required using special topical medications. But the process of therapy is not complicated, and this disease is quite successfully cured in 4-5 days. In the treatment of scabies, the most important thing is to carry out the most complete disinfection of your home, clothing and household items with special means.

Pubic pediculosis is the infection of a person with specific insects - pubic lice. The pubic louse is able to move from a sick partner to a healthy one during sexual contact, moving along the pubic hair. In addition, you can become infected with pubic pediculosis when using bed or underwear, as well as while sleeping with an infected person in the same bed. For the treatment of pubic pediculosis, special ointments, sprays and shampoos are used, which contain drugs that kill these insects. As a rule, a single application of the drug is enough to cure. It is important to remember that pubic pediculosis is a sexually transmitted disease, which means that partners need to be treated at the same time.

Autoimmune diseases that cause genital itching

An autoimmune disease is a disease in which the body begins to perceive its own cells as foreign and destroy them. This group includes all kinds of dermatitis - skin inflammation. This includes allergic and atopic dermatitis, neurodermatitis, and urticaria. An allergic skin reaction with itching and burning can be caused by the use of certain types of soap, especially if it contains perfumes, washing powders or solutions used for douching.

In addition to itching, dermatitis is also characterized by the following symptoms:

at first, reddening spots of rather large sizes appear on the skin;
further, small multiple bubbles begin to form against their background;
the bubbles burst and empty, leaving behind weeping superficial skin defects;
small crusts and scales are formed in large quantities.

The main lesion is always located exactly in the place where the allergen (the substance that causes allergies) affected the skin. However, we must remember that any allergic reaction is not a disease of a separate organ or part of the body, but of the whole organism as a whole. In this regard, lesions can form on any part of the body, sometimes very far from the place of direct exposure to the allergen, including the inguinal region. Often they are swollen areas, small "pimples", bubbles and patches of redness. In the vast majority of cases, such skin rashes are accompanied by complaints of constant intense itching.

In the treatment of neurodermatitis, diet, adherence to the regimen, physiotherapy, antihistamines, and in severe cases, hormonal agents are used. Locally applied neutral creams and ointments with antipruritic, exfoliating and resolving effect.

Itching and diseases of the reproductive system in women

First of all, itching of the genital organs occurs when there is a discharge in women caused by inflammation in the uterus and its cervix. Inflammation of the uterine mucosa is called endometritis, inflammation of the cervical mucosa is called cervicitis.

Endometritis is often asymptomatic, but is sometimes characterized by the following symptoms:

pain in the lower abdomen;
liquid purulent discharge;
on examination, the doctor reveals a painful, enlarged uterus of a dense consistency;
an increase in the number of leukocytes and an increase in ESR in a blood test;
chronic endometritis is characterized by menstrual irregularities, serous-purulent discharge, aching pains in the lower abdomen.

The main symptoms of cervicitis, even in the acute stage, may be mild. In the presence of inflammation of the cervix, mostly women complain of an increase in the amount of discharge, itching, and less often - pain in the lower abdomen.

Itching of the genitals in diabetes

The main symptom of diabetes is an increase in the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Also, this disease is characterized by increased thirst, frequent urge to urinate, skin lesions and the development of multiple pathologies of internal organs.

In diabetes mellitus, itching and burning in the inguinal region are due to the fact that the patient's urine contains sugar in a very high concentration. Glucosuria (sugar in the urine) is one of the main symptoms of diabetes. Therefore, with errors in intimate hygiene, the urine remaining on the genitals after urination serves as an excellent medium for the growth and development of pathogenic microorganisms. This is what causes such complaints.

Hepatitis and genital itching

Inflammation of the liver tissue is called hepatitis. In most cases, this disease also affects the gallbladder along with the bile ducts. This pathology is characterized by a rather severe, emaciated condition of the patient, fever, pain in the right hypochondrium, darkening of the urine and lightening of the feces. Often jaundice develops, a condition in which the skin becomes yellowish. This is due to the fact that due to dysfunction of the liver and gallbladder, bile enzymes begin to enter the bloodstream and accumulate in the skin, giving it a characteristic color.

The same mechanism explains the occurrence of itching in the inguinal region - bile enzymes have an irritating effect on skin cells.

Itching in diseases of the urinary system

Chronic inflammatory diseases of the kidneys and bladder, associated with significant impairment of their functions, can cause itching in the genital area. This is due to the fact that with pathologies of the urinary system, urea breakdown products begin to enter the bloodstream, which have an irritating effect. The appearance of itching is usually accompanied by polyuria (increased amount of urine) and nocturia (the prevalence of frequency and volume of urination at night).

Itching in the pathology of the hematopoietic organs

Various diseases of the hematopoietic organs (lymphogranulomatosis, anemia, leukemia, etc.) can also be accompanied by genital itching. This is explained by the fact that these diseases are based on violations of the body's defenses. As a result, a decrease in immunity stimulates the growth and development of pathogenic microflora of the genital tract. This leads to the appearance of pathological discharge from them, and the development of itching and burning.

Itching of the genital organs and diseases of the endocrine glands

Violations of the normal functioning of the endocrine glands, for example, with a decrease or increase in the function of the thyroid and parathyroid glands, inevitably entail disturbances in the activity of other organs, including those responsible for the synthesis of sex hormones. And as described above, hormonal fluctuations negatively affect the secretion of the mucous membranes of the genital tract, and can cause itching and burning in this area.

Itching and swelling of the genitals

Oncological diseases greatly weaken all the defense mechanisms of our body. This is especially evident when using potent medications.

Reduced immunity in cancer, and not even necessarily of the genital organs, allows the microflora of the genital tract to multiply freely, and this causes itching.

How to cure genital itching?

To determine the factor that provoked the appearance of itching, and the selection of the correct treatment, it is necessary to conduct a diagnosis, including:

examination by a urologist or gynecologist, including using mirrors;
general and biochemical blood test;
smear analysis.

Based on the results, the doctor will prescribe treatment or additional examination. You also need a local treatment that will temporarily relieve itching, or at least alleviate the condition.

4 simple methods to relieve genital itching during treatment:
1. Observe the rules of intimate hygiene, and wash yourself with warm water 2-3 times a day. You can use a solution of chamomile, or add furatsilin to the water. Toilet soap is not recommended.
2. With dry mucous membranes, do not forget about moisturizing the vagina. Use special gels and lubricants with natural extracts.
3. For a while, give up sexual intercourse - this can cause even more irritation of the genitals.
4. Follow the diet prescribed by your doctor. Eliminate seasonings, spicy foods, yeast, grapes, blue cheeses and wine from the diet.

How to treat genital itching? Folk remedies

Itching of the genitals can be temporarily relieved using the following methods:

Washing the genitals with a decoction of St. John's wort.
Sitz baths with a decoction of chamomile or sage.
The use of noble yarrow infusion instead of water.
Rinsing the genitals with a decoction of mint.
Washing the genitals before going to bed with a decoction of tannery.
Application to the external genital organs after taking a bath of the following ointment: 1 tbsp. a spoonful of crushed and fried walnut kernels, 1 teaspoon of pure vegetable oil, 1 egg yolk. Stir and keep on low heat until the ointment thickens. Then strain through cheesecloth. If the itching is very severe, then you can additionally apply the ointment before bedtime.

It must be remembered that all of these remedies for itching of the genital organs give only a temporary effect, and you can use them until the treatment is prescribed by a specialist.

Which doctors should you contact if you have genital itching:

gynecologist;
infectiologist.

Treatment of itching in the female external genitalia

First of all, it is necessary to treat the underlying pathology that led to the development of itching. Therapy is the most difficult type of disease due to mental factors. Such patients are prescribed psychotherapy, therapeutic hypnosis, sleeping pills and sedative drugs.

The most important place in the treatment of these symptoms is given to the strict implementation of all hygiene measures. A thorough toilet of the external genitalia should be carried out regularly at least 2-3 times a day. Areas in which the patient experiences constant irritation should be regularly lubricated with ointment from itching. Most often, these drugs are made on the basis of hormones of the adrenal cortex - prednisolone, oxycort or hydrocortisone ointment. These measures are often used in combination with a course of ultrasound therapy.

Occasionally, with persistent painful itching, it is necessary to resort to chipping the site of irritation with an anesthetic solution. This serves as a temporary remedy, but can make life and sleep easier for a period of time. In a particularly severe course of the disease, surgical intervention is indicated, during which the removal of individual pudendal nerves is performed.

Prevention of genital itching

To protect against itching and irritation of the vagina, you should:

do not forget about regular hygiene;
wear comfortable underwear made from natural fabrics;
do not use pads daily;
avoid hypothermia in the cold season;

Itching in the intimate area in women is a fairly common problem. Sometimes it doesn't pose a serious health problem. if the cause is excessive sweating or an allergic reaction.

Causes of itching of the labia

There are many causes of itching in the genitals in women, including sexually transmitted infections: genital herpes, trichomoniasis, chlamydia. Intimate itching can be a symptom of diabetes and, in rare cases, cancer.

If it is accompanied by frequent urge to urinate, this is a sign of cystitis.

Dermatitis

This is a common cause of intimate itching in adults and children. Prepubertal girls (7-10 years old) are more likely to have atopic and irritable dermatitis. Clinical examination often shows erythematous labia due to lichenification.

Itching of the labia minora may be permanent due to irritant contact dermatitis.

It is usually caused by poor hygiene habits:

excessive use of perfumed soap;
prolonged wearing of wet bathing suits;
thick clothes, nylon tights.

Allergic contact dermatitis is unusual in young adults because they have low exposure to potential allergens. In adult women, allergic and irritant contact dermatitis accounts for about 50% of cases of chronic vulvovaginal pruritus.

Hormonal adjustment

Itching of the labia can be the result of genital diseases, both inflammatory in nature, accompanying cervical erosion, genital warts, and associated with diseases caused by hormonal changes.

Itching in the intimate area due to hormonal changes occurs during menopause (menopause). The ovaries stop producing estrogen. The hormone responsible for the normal sexual functions of the reproductive system is no longer produced in the proper amount.

Decreased estrogen levels cause the natural secretion glands to dry out and during menopause, the skin around the vulvar area becomes both thin and dry. During this period, a woman experiences itching and burning in the intimate area, as a result of the lack of moisture in the walls of the organs of the reproductive system.

Hormonal changes in different age periods also provoke specific dermatoses and irritations of the intimate zone.

In this regard, the following points are taken into account:

epithelial characteristics of the vulva in women depending on the region of their residence;
temporary hormonal changes that affect the menstrual cycle;
the presence of estrogen receptors on keratinocytes.

During the hormonal restructuring of the body, changes are also observed in the bacterial flora.