DiscoverDr. Joseph Mercola - Take Control of Your HealthWhat Causes Vaginal Itching (and How to Find Relief Safely)
What Causes Vaginal Itching (and How to Find Relief Safely)

What Causes Vaginal Itching (and How to Find Relief Safely)

Update: 2025-11-13
Share

Description

  • Vaginal or vulvar itching usually points to one of five causes: yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, contact irritation or allergy, sexually transmitted infection, or a skin condition
  • To calm irritation fast, stop using fragranced products and harsh soaps, avoid douching, and switch to gentle, pH-balanced care. Choose breathable cotton fabrics and avoid tight, non-ventilated clothing that traps heat and moisture
  • Focus on restoring the skin barrier and microbiome — use plain water for cleansing, natural, fragrance-free moisturizers for protection, and steady nutrition to support hormonal and metabolic balance. Relief happens faster once irritants are removed and the body's natural defenses are allowed to reset
  • Seek urgent care if severe pain, sores, fever, foul-smelling discharge, occurs. Pregnant, diabetic, or immunocompromised women also need extra care
  • See a clinician if symptoms last longer than three days or keep recurring, since persistent itching often signals an infection, hormone imbalance, or skin disorder that requires professional treatment
Comments 
In Channel
loading
00:00
00:00
x

0.5x

0.8x

1.0x

1.25x

1.5x

2.0x

3.0x

Sleep Timer

Off

End of Episode

5 Minutes

10 Minutes

15 Minutes

30 Minutes

45 Minutes

60 Minutes

120 Minutes

What Causes Vaginal Itching (and How to Find Relief Safely)

What Causes Vaginal Itching (and How to Find Relief Safely)

Dr. Joseph Mercola