Burning sensation in intimate places. Why does itching and burning occur in the intimate area in women? Causes and treatment. Causes of discomfort in an intimate place

The burning sensation is caused by damage to the mucous membrane and irritation of the tissues of the vulva or vagina. Normally, a woman who follows the rules of hygiene should not experience any unpleasant sensations in the genital area. Itching, burning, change in discharge - all this is considered an abnormal condition. It should be remembered that such discomfort is only a manifestation of the problem, so anti-burning pills alone are not enough to eliminate it.

If symptoms do not go away within 2-3 days, self-medication is unacceptable. Incorrect treatment tactics due to ignorance of the underlying cause of the disease will lead to a deterioration in the patient’s condition and the spread of the inflammatory process to other areas. Adherents of douching should stop doing it before visiting a doctor. In many cases, it was the abuse of douching that became the cause of many problems in the field of gynecology.

Now let's look at this in more detail.

Why does “burning in the intimate area in women” occur?

The mucous membrane of the vulva or vagina plays a protective role. It covers the muscle layer of organs and prevents irritants from entering them. The mucosa is a multilayered squamous epithelium that is capable of self-cleaning and exhibits some antibacterial properties. In particular, the vaginal mucosa produces lactic acid to maintain an acidic environment. It is she who does not allow the opportunistic flora, which is normally present in the vagina of every woman, to actively multiply.

Some diseases or the effects of unfavorable factors lead to drying out of the mucous membrane, which reduces its protective properties. In such conditions, a woman feels dryness and discomfort. Atrophic changes in the mucosa or simply its thinning are manifested by a burning sensation and a desire to wash away the source of irritation.

This condition is especially unpleasant when it occurs in a public place. In some cases, severe burning sensation is very difficult to tolerate.

Sometimes these symptoms indicate minor damage to the mucous membrane and can be eliminated fairly quickly. In other situations, especially with a long course, burning and dryness are signs of infectious and inflammatory processes and require urgent treatment.

Some doctors call dryness in the intimate area atrophic dermatitis. After exposure to the underlying cause, the glands begin to produce less secretion, and the lubricant to moisturize the outer layer becomes insufficient.

The main causes of burning and dryness in the intimate area

Such disorders can be caused by a wide range of reasons. A gynecologist will help identify the true cause. If you do not pay attention to unpleasant symptoms or self-medicate, the problem can only get worse and lead to more serious complications.

A burning sensation and dryness can be caused by local factors that damage the mucous membrane or diseases in the gynecological area.

Among the possible causes of unpleasant symptoms, doctors identify the following:

• Allergic reaction to soap or other hygiene product. In this case, the burning sensation will intensify when using the product, and the woman will be able to independently determine the cause of the discomfort.
• Allergic reaction to synthetic underwear. In addition to the burning sensation, itching will also appear in the thighs and buttocks.
• Mechanical damage to the intimate area due to pressure underwear. A burning sensation will occur in areas of skin irritation, especially if beads of sweat get into the wound.
• Mechanical damage to the genital organs. This is possible during sexual experiments, after hair removal or using a razor.
• Abuse of douching. Douching is not beneficial for the vaginal microflora, especially if it is carried out not with herbal infusions, but with antiseptic solutions. An imbalance of microflora leads to the activation of pathogenic organisms and provokes a burning sensation.

In all the cases described above, the affected area is clearly visible (redness, chafing), and the woman can see the relationship between cause and effect. In addition to these reasons, burning and dryness in the intimate area can cause diseases such as:

• endocrine disorders (hypothyroidism,);
• hepatitis;
• gynecological infections (trichomoniasis, herpes, chlamydia);
• hormonal imbalance (lack of estrogen after 45 years can cause dryness and burning in the vagina, sometimes the symptom occurs before menstruation or in pregnant women);
• stressful situations or diseases of the psycho-emotional sphere (the work of the nervous system plays a role here, which leads to dryness of the mucous membranes of not only the genital organs);
• fungal diseases in the field of gynecology () and others.

Under the influence of local factors, the feeling of burning and dryness, as a rule, goes away on its own after some time (if the cause has been eliminated). If the symptoms are caused by diseases of the genital area, the clinical picture will only worsen over time.

In some cases, burning and dryness are adverse reactions to taking medications from the group of antihistamines, antidepressants or contraceptives.

It has been observed that smoking also contributes to burning and dryness. With prolonged smoking in women, hormonal levels are disrupted, and problems with blood circulation occur, so the nutrition of the mucous membranes is disrupted.

Associated symptoms with burning in the intimate area

Burning is rarely the only symptom of mucosal damage. At the same time, other local reactions or systemic clinical manifestations may appear if the burning sensation is caused by any disease.

Among the local reactions, a woman, in addition to burning, may be bothered by:

• Skin irritation and rashes. Irritation occurs when there is mechanical damage to the skin, for example using tight underwear or touching synthetic materials. The nature of the rash can tell a lot about their etiology, but the difference is known only to a specialist. In some cases, pimples indicate only inappropriate personal hygiene products, in others they have the characteristic appearance of an infectious disease. For example, herpes and an allergic reaction can appear as rashes, but it will take a doctor to differentiate the two conditions.
• Redness and hyperemia. Such symptoms of the external genitalia more often indicate the inflammatory nature of the lesion. Often this is also accompanied by swelling. Redness of the labia along with vaginal dryness is observed with estrogen deficiency. This can happen during menopause, pregnancy, or hormonal imbalance.
• Pain when urinating. Very often, gynecological problems are accompanied by disorders of the urinary system. This is explained by the anatomical proximity of the organs. A burning sensation in the intimate area may appear simultaneously with a burning sensation or pain during.
• Itching in the vagina. The combination of burning and itching is a typical manifestation that all women experience. Fungi of the genus are a normal inhabitant of the vaginal microflora and are activated by the action of certain factors.
• Bleeding, dryness and burning after sexual intercourse. Such symptoms can be caused either by a banal lack of natural lubrication or by trophic changes in the genital organs (leukoplakia, dysplasia).
• Change in the nature of vaginal discharge. Normally, women secrete vaginal secretions every day. Its quantity should be small and the color transparent. When the organ functions correctly, the discharge does not cause discomfort to the patient. In some diseases, the functioning of the mucous membrane is disrupted, which is why secretions may be absent or released in increased quantities. The color of the secretion is also a diagnostic sign. In case of infectious diseases it becomes yellow-green, and in case of fungal infection it becomes white-curdled. The smell and consistency of the mucus may also change, which the doctor must pay attention to during the examination. If there is no change in the discharge, the problem is most likely caused by mechanical damage or a systemic disease.
• Soreness. As a rule, it occurs if the problem is caused by an inflammatory process, which happens with gynecological diseases.
• Dryness. This is a symptom that appears when there is a disturbance in the nervous system or mucosal atrophy. The second option is possible due to hormonal changes in the body and often appears in women over 45 years of age.
• Irritability. It indicates instability of the nervous system and is more often caused by hormonal imbalance.

Prevention of burning and dryness in the intimate area

To prevent burning and dryness in the intimate area, doctors advise adhering to the following recommendations:

• Observe personal hygiene rules. You need to shower and change your underwear daily, and pads and tampons at least once every 4 hours.
• Take care of your genitals using special products that have a reduced environmental reaction.
• Stick to proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. This will reduce the influence of irritating factors on the skin and mucous membranes of the intimate area, and also normalize blood circulation in it.
• Wear underwear made from natural fabrics and sanitary pads without fragrances.
• Do not delay visiting your doctor if symptoms do not disappear within a few days.
• Completely treat concomitant diseases so that the inflammatory process does not affect the genitals.
• Try to get plenty of rest and minimize stressful situations, as this often causes hormonal imbalances.

Diagnostics

Diagnostics include:

• A survey of the patient, in which the doctor evaluates the nature of the complaints and tries to establish a relationship with recent events.
• Gynecological examination. The condition of the mucous membranes, skin, the presence of rashes, redness, the nature of the discharge and other parameters are assessed. At this stage, the doctor can make a presumptive diagnosis.
• For a more detailed examination, a visual inspection is not enough. Recently, a mandatory procedure for a gynecologist is colposcopy. Under significant magnification, the doctor examines the tissues of the vagina and cervix. Colposcopy makes it possible to detect the presence of atypical cells, for example, in dysplasia, leukoplakia, precancer.
• Analysis of secretions. A smear is taken, which is examined for cytology and the presence of pathogenic microflora. Based on the results of the analysis, it is possible to determine the presence of an infectious process and the nature of the pathogen. If the burning sensation is of an allergic nature, this will also be shown by a cytological examination.
• General tests. To identify systemic diseases, a clinical analysis of blood and urine, as well as determination of hormone levels, may be prescribed.

Treatment of burning and dryness in the intimate area

Treatment should be carried out only after the cause has been identified. If there is a suspicion that the symptoms are caused by a local allergic reaction, it is enough for the woman to stop using inappropriate hygiene products, pads or underwear. In this case, the symptoms go away on their own within a few days.

If the cause is hormonal imbalance, special medications are prescribed that correct the hormonal balance. Such remedies are selected by a doctor individually for each woman. The exception is pregnant women - they will have to use symptomatic remedies, since the problem should disappear after childbirth.

If an infection is detected in a smear, etiotropic therapy is prescribed - antibacterial agents or antiviral agents for herpetic rashes.

Douching with decoctions of medicinal herbs will help relieve a woman’s condition. Chamomile, oak bark and others are suitable for this.

The burning sensation can be effectively eliminated by taking just one tablet. If a specific pathogen is identified, longer therapy will be required for both sexual partners.

Itching of the skin, including in the intimate area, can be caused by liver diseases. To determine such conditions, a biochemical blood test for bilirubin is performed. After the results, appropriate treatment is prescribed.

In case of mechanical damage to the mucous membrane of the vagina or vulva, wound healing agents in the form of ointments or suppositories can be used. In uncomplicated cases, such problems also disappear within a few days.

The help of a gynecologist is indispensable in case of infectious and inflammatory processes. Here it is important to correctly determine the root cause of the disease, as well as prescribe a treatment regimen that will help eliminate it. The results of bacteriological research are important. Thanks to them, the doctor receives information about the presence of specific and nonspecific microflora, and also selects the right medicine. It is strictly forbidden to interrupt the course of treatment. If this happens, the pathogen will develop resistance to the drug, and the inflammatory process will not be eliminated. In the future, this will lead to chronic infection, which will be difficult to get rid of.

If a fungal flora is identified as the causative agent, treatment may involve taking just 1 tablet. For a nonspecific pathogen, the treatment regimen will be more complex and lengthy. Treatment is prescribed to both sexual partners.

As a symptomatic therapy that will help relieve symptoms for the patient, douching with a decoction of medicinal herbs may be prescribed. , chamomile, oak bark, etc. are well suited for such purposes. Antiseptic douching agents should only be prescribed by a doctor. They are also not suitable for self-treatment or prevention.

During treatment, sexual intercourse, as well as visiting the sauna and bathhouse, should be avoided. After completing the course, the woman undergoes another examination. Repeated masks must be free of pathogenic pathogens.

Additionally, vitamin preparations and immunostimulants may be prescribed. If the cause is a systemic disease, it is necessary to urgently begin its treatment. In case of hormonal imbalances, a woman is prescribed hormonal contraceptives, and in case of liver problems - hepatoprotectors.

Itching in the intimate area in women is a condition that causes both psychological and physical discomfort. It can be caused by various reasons: both harmless factors (an allergic reaction to underwear or panty liners), and inflammatory processes of the reproductive system or serious pathologies not related to gynecology.

Itching may be accompanied by discharge, a strong odor, and painful sensations in the abdomen. It can also occur without additional symptoms. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek help from a gynecologist.

Causes of itching

There are a number of factors that cause burning in the intimate area. This type of itching is not accompanied by discharge. It is unpleasant, but completely safe and easy to eliminate. This is how skin irritation manifests itself. This includes the following factors:

• allergic reactions (burning and redness) to panty liners, soap, toilet paper and other personal hygiene products. It could also be intolerance to washing powders or conditioners;
• neglect of the rules of personal hygiene - untimely washing and rare changes of underwear;
• hair removal of the pubic area - after using an epilator or wax strips, the delicate skin of the pubis becomes very irritated and itching appears;
• wearing underwear made of synthetic or rough fabrics.

In these cases, the itching will go away immediately after the irritant is eliminated.

The next group of causes of burning is inflammatory and infectious diseases of the reproductive or urinary system.

Itching is necessarily accompanied by additional symptoms: copious discharge of different colors and consistency, a sharp and repulsive odor, possibly in the genitals, tissue swelling, pain in the lower abdomen and when urinating, a feeling of dryness in the vagina.

Itching in the intimate area can be caused by diseases far from gynecology. For example: diabetes mellitus (high sugar levels allow fungi to multiply at a high rate), hepatitis, kidney and liver diseases, thyroid pathologies, diseases of the circulatory system (anemia, leukemia), inflammation of the bladder and other organs of the urinary system.

In these cases, it is necessary to treat the underlying disease and take appropriate pharmaceuticals.

In addition, burning appears as a result of stressful situations, prolonged depression, during menstruation, and puberty.

Conservative treatment

If itching occurs, you should make an appointment with a gynecologist. The doctor will conduct an examination, collect a medical history and prescribe the necessary tests.

After this, a diagnosis will be made and treatment will be prescribed. It depends on what pathogens provoked the disease.

Candida fungi, protozoan single-celled organisms (provoking trichomoniasis) or bacteria can cause itching in the intimate area.

1. In case of fungal infection, you need to take antifungal drugs: “” or “”. Or use vaginal suppositories: “”, “”, “”, etc. The doctor will prescribe medications that suit you (this could be tablets, cream or ointment);
2. If the burning sensation is caused by bacteria, then treatment is carried out in two stages: first, the woman takes prescribed antibiotics, and then probiotics, which restore the vaginal microflora;
3. In case of hormonal changes associated with menopause, it is necessary to take hormonal drugs produced on the basis of estriol. They normalize the vaginal microflora.
4. If the itching is caused by cancer, then surgical intervention is necessary.
5. In cases where the burning sensation is caused by other diseases (diabetes mellitus, etc.), the underlying disease should be treated.
6. If the problem is related to a psychological component, then it is necessary to take sedative medications.

How to relieve itching with folk remedies

You can gently eliminate the burning sensation at home. Douching, using tampons soaked in medicinal agents, and taking medications orally will help with this.

1. Make a medicinal decoction of chamomile and... Take two large spoons of flowers, pour two hundred milliliters of boiling water and simmer over low heat for three to five minutes. Leave for fifteen minutes, then filter. Cool the broth and do douching in the morning and in the evening. Take a syringe or douche, having previously sterilized it, and inject the solution into the vagina.
2. Effective results are shown by douching with hydrogen peroxide, carried out according to the method of Dr. Neumyvakin. Take a 1% peroxide solution. Usually a 3% preparation is sold. To obtain the required solution, dilute ordinary hydrogen peroxide with warm boiled water in a ratio of 1 to 3. The water temperature should be slightly higher than body temperature.
3. Douche twice a day, after washing. After the inflammatory process decreases and the pain subsides, douche once a day, then once every two days.
4. Dilute five grams of baking soda in one liter of water. Use boiled liquid at room temperature. Douche for ten days, twice a day, after washing. If after the first use of the solution your burning sensation intensifies, stop treatment and try other methods.
5. In case of acute inflammatory process and unbearable itching sensation, you can treat with boric acid. Wash your genitals, dip a sterile swab in boric acid and insert it for thirty seconds, then remove. You can use this method no more than twice, then you should choose another treatment method.
6. Severe itching will help eliminate. Over low heat, bring two tablespoons of calendula flowers with 300 milliliters of water to a boil. Leave for five minutes, then strain and add to a bowl of water (five liters will be enough). Wash yourself thoroughly and sit in this bath for fifteen minutes. Calendula will relieve inflammation and burning. Do the procedure for ten days, once a day.
7. Take sterile swabs and wrap them in a bandage. Soak in freshly squeezed aloe juice. The tampon should be inserted into the vagina immediately after washing in the evening, put on cotton panties and leave overnight. In the morning, remove the tampon and rinse. Treatment should be carried out for no more than five days.
8. If a woman experiences itching without discharge or odor, this indicates that the genital organs are being irritated. It is recommended to wash yourself with chlorhexidine three times a day and wear cotton underwear. You can treat the external genitalia with a three percent solution of hydrogen peroxide, but no more than three days.
9. A decoction of basil will help cope with fungi. Boil two tablespoons of the plant in half a liter of water. Cook for ten minutes over low heat. Drink before meals four times a day. Dosage – one hundred milliliters at a time.
10. If pregnancy is accompanied by itching, then you can use Furacilin solution. Dilute five grams of powder in 500 milliliters of boiled water. Rinse your genitals with the broth before going to bed. You should wash yourself well first.
11. Rinsing with decoctions of St. John's wort or mint will also help relieve burning and discomfort. You can take sitz baths with the addition of sage.

Do not use 3% hydrogen peroxide solution. It can cause burns to the mucous membranes and cause excessive dryness. This will lead to complications and make treatment more difficult.

Prevention

It is impossible to completely eliminate from life all aspects that lead to itching in the intimate area. But there are a number of actions that will significantly reduce this possibility.

The following rules can be identified as precautionary measures:

• maintaining personal hygiene - daily washing (it is advisable to carry out the procedure in the morning and evening), regular change of underwear, tampons and pads;
• it is required to be checked by a gynecologist twice a year;
• regularly treat diseases of the reproductive and urinary systems. If necessary, use prescribed ointments, suppositories or tablets;
• Avoid casual sexual relations; otherwise, use condoms.

Conclusion

Itching and discharge in women in the intimate area can signal serious problems in the functioning of the body, so they cannot be ignored. If a burning sensation or other unpleasant phenomena occurs, consult a doctor.

Advanced cases lead to the fact that the disease that caused the itching can become chronic. This can lead to health problems: difficulties in conceiving and bearing a baby, infertility.

Many women experience discomfort in intimate places. This may indicate the presence of a disease. Before starting treatment, you need to familiarize yourself with the characteristics of the disease and study the symptoms. You can get rid of discomfort with the help of folk remedies and medications.

The most common causes of discomfort in the intimate area are:

• Bacterial vaginosis.
• Thrush.
• Trichomoniasis.
• Vulvodenia.
• Bartholinitis.
• Furuncle.
• Insufficient skin care.
• Razor damage to skin.
• Allergy to soap, detergent.

The causes can be very serious and require treatment. However, in some cases, it is enough just to replace the soap, or wait until the damaged skin recovers after shaving.

Symptoms and diagnosis

Discomfort is accompanied by the following symptoms:

Only a doctor can make a diagnosis and find the cause of the problem. Diagnosis is carried out in the hospital during examination of the patient. Usually, with a visual examination, the cause of the discomfort can be identified. However, in some cases, tests and ultrasound are necessary. You won’t be able to determine the problem or cause of discomfort on your own.

Is treatment with folk remedies acceptable?

If the cause of discomfort is not related to infections or serious diseases, then you can use folk remedies.

• It will help eliminate the court and reduce the amount of unpleasant discharge bath with soda. About ten liters of water are poured into a basin and at least three tablespoons of baking soda are added. The components are thoroughly mixed. You need to take a sitz bath, the procedure lasts ten minutes. It should be performed once or twice a day.
• Will help sage treatment. It is necessary to combine 50 g, 2 liters of hot water. The product is infused and then cooled. The product must be filtered, poured into a basin and taken in a sitz bath. The procedure lasts ten minutes. The water during the procedure should be warm. This remedy will help eliminate redness and burning in an intimate place.
• Douching with various decoctions is also effective. You need to combine a tablespoon of flowers and a glass of hot water. The components are boiled in a water bath for five minutes, infused, the liquid is filtered and cooled. A warm solution should be used for douching every day. This will help get rid of itching and redness.
• Fights discomfort calendula. You need to combine two tablespoons of herbs and one liter of boiling water. The solution is kept in a water bath for five minutes, then filtered and cooled slightly. Warm liquid is used for douching every day, once or twice a day. this will help restore healthy microflora, eliminate burning and redness.
• Acceptance helps a lot with discomfort baths with potassium permanganate. You need to add a small amount of product to the bath and mix. The water should be slightly pink. You need to sit in it for at least ten minutes. The procedure must be carried out every day. Potassium permanganate eliminates pathogenic bacteria, destroys burning and redness. Usually the discomfort disappears after a few days.

Taking medications at home

Using medications without consulting a doctor is very dangerous. They can cause harm, aggravate the disease, and cause complications. Using pharmaceutical products yourself is very dangerous.

Experts usually recommend taking Suprastin for itching and burning. You should take one tablet once or twice a day. You should not take this medication for more than three days, as complications may occur. If you have a serious illness, medicine will not help.

More serious diseases can be eliminated only after visiting a doctor, who will make an accurate diagnosis and select the optimal medicine. Otherwise, complications may arise.

There are many gels, creams, tablets that treat diseases and eliminate ailments of the intimate area, but you can select them only with a specialist, and in no case on your own.

Experts do not recommend using:

Antibiotics. They lead to complications and are prescribed by doctors only as a last resort. Some patients rush to purchase them in the initial stages of the disease, which is not possible. In the initial stages, other medications that are less likely to cause side effects help.

Vishnevsky ointment, ichthyol ointment. When pimples occur in an intimate place, some women use these products. However, they will not reduce pimples, but will enlarge them and accelerate the process of suppuration of red rashes. It is recommended to use creams, and these ointments are prescribed by the doctor after examination.

Detergents. During treatment, it is necessary to avoid detergents for intimate hygiene, as they can cause redness. Perhaps a person has an individual intolerance to certain components, which is why the allergy appeared.

Prevention

To avoid discomfort in an intimate place, you must follow some rules:

Itching and burning when occurring even on a small area of ​​skin is a rather intrusive symptom. And if these manifestations bother a woman in the intimate area, then both work and rest become impossible. Many people try to cope with folk remedies, believing that itching cannot be dangerous. But scratching the skin quite often accompanies diseases such as diabetes and severe liver damage. The article will discuss the main causes of itching in the intimate area in women and how to alleviate the condition.

Many infectious pathologies of the pubic area and female genital organs are accompanied by itching and burning. Depending on the specific disease, a woman may suffer from a number of other symptoms in addition to itching.

This is one of the most common diseases in which there is a complaint of itching. Candidiasis is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection. The Candida fungus is constantly present on the mucous membranes of every woman in the form of spores. But the activation and rapid reproduction of fungi must be provoked by something:

• immunodeficiency;
• taking antibiotics;
• severe stress;
• new hygiene product;
• taking oral contraceptives.

Along with severe itching and burning, the woman is bothered by copious discharge. They are quite thick, white, with an easily recognizable appearance of cheesy lumps.

Bacterial vaginosis

Changes in the normal microbiocenosis of the vagina lead to such a phenomenon as bacterial vaginosis.

It is provoked mainly by local remedies:

• excessive douching;
• spermicidal lubricants and tablets;
• drugs for the treatment of candidiasis.

Bacterial vaginosis is not dangerous to a woman's health. It only causes harm through severe discomfort and itching in the genital area. Along with it, women often experience discharge that is quite abundant and has an unpleasant odor.

Sexually transmitted diseases

Itching, burning, unusual discharge - all this accompanies almost any sexually transmitted infection:

• gonorrhea;
• chlamydia;
• trichomoniasis.

It is worth noting that quite often the itching is accompanied by symptoms from the urinary system:

• frequent urination;
• pain and stinging when going to the toilet.

Pediculosis

• severe itching in the pubic hair;
• black specks on underwear are the result of lice.

Video - Pediculosis pubis: definition, causes, symptoms, treatment, treatment of the patient

Causes of itching not related to infections

In addition to contagious infections, there are a number of common diseases, the main symptom of which is debilitating itching in the intimate area. Let's look at the main ones.

Allergy

Allergic reactions are becoming more common today. They also affect the intimate sphere of women. Groin allergies can be caused by:

• new hygiene product - gel, soap, lotion;
• the top layer of gaskets, not even saturated with perfume;
• detergent for washing underwear with poor rinsing;
• products used for depilation - creams, wax.

It is important to distinguish an allergic reaction from a simple irritation, for example, after shaving.

Atrophic vulvovaginitis

The natural age-related change in hormonal levels is expressed primarily in a decrease in estrogen levels. The main female hormone maintained the elasticity and health of the vaginal mucosa. As it decreases, the mucous membrane becomes thinner and dries out. Itching, burning, and severe discomfort occur in the vaginal area. Symptoms worsen during sexual intercourse. The diagnosis is easily confirmed during an examination by a gynecologist.

Diabetes

Many people consider itching to be just a skin problem. But this is absolutely not true. The skin is the organ that sensitively reacts to changes throughout the body, the main protector of the body. Diabetes mellitus is a persistent increase in blood glucose levels in some people. A feature of itching in diabetes mellitus is its severity. It is quite strong and debilitating, causing people to scratch their skin to the point of severe damage. Due to a weak immune system due to diabetes, these wounds quickly become infected and have difficulty healing.

Liver failure

Itching with liver damage appears primarily with cholestasis syndrome. This is stagnation of bile, in which the level of total and indirect bilirubin in the blood increases. As a result, they cause severe itching and yellowing of the skin. In some liver pathologies, itching may be the first symptom that appears several months before the development of the disease, for example, primary biliary cirrhosis.

Video - Causes of vaginal itching

Treatment

Therapy for itching, if considered radically, could be:

• local – symptomatic;
• etiological or pathogenetic - aimed at the cause and processes of development of the disease.

Symptomatic treatment

There are products that significantly relieve itching through local action on the skin. These are various creams, gels and decoctions containing:

1. Herbal ingredients – menthol, lemon balm, lavender, plantain. They have a cooling and soothing effect on the skin, somewhat reducing itching. They should be applied carefully and only to the pubis, avoiding contact with mucous membranes.
2. Panthenol is a product that soothes and heals the skin. Creams with panthenol will be especially effective if there is skin damage due to scratching.

Of course, you cannot limit yourself to symptomatic help. This will only provide temporary relief as the cause of the itching is still not eliminated. Further treatment requires an examination by a specialist with confirmation of the diagnosis and competent prescriptions.

Video - Three tests for itching in the intimate area

Etiopathogenetic treatment

Some causes of itching can be safely cured forever with the help of etiological therapy:

Regardless of the source of the burning sensation, antihistamines provide relief. These are medications that block receptors for histamine, a biologically active substance responsible for itching of any etiology.

Dosages and side effects of the main antihistamines:

There is a local remedy with a histamine receptor blocker - Fenistil. This is a cream that acts locally, but is quite effective.

Video - Itching in the groin in women

Treatment of itching in somatic pathologies

Itching in diabetes mellitus is especially dangerous due to infection of scratches, as mentioned above. The following will help reduce or eliminate it:

1. Sugar level control. When maintaining glycemia at the border with normal (5 mmol/l) values, itching is practically not a concern.
2. Proper skin care. If you have diabetes, it is especially important to use the least irritating hygiene products and cotton underwear.

Itching associated with hepatic cholestasis requires the use of ursodeoxycholic acid drugs:

The use of these drugs in courses can reduce the level of bilirubin in the blood. This eliminates the pathogenetic link that led to itching. Tips on skin care for diabetes mellitus are also relevant here.

Itchy skin is not an independent disease. This is one of the most striking manifestations of a certain pathology that needs clarification and treatment. Therapy for itching in the intimate area in women is complex and multicomponent. It directly depends on the source of the itching, although there are general recommendations for being gentle with the skin. In any case, the appearance of obsessive itching is an impetus for a diagnostic search for its source.

Itching in the intimate area in women is not an independent disease, but only a peculiar reaction of the mucous membranes and skin in response to exposure to various irritants.

Like burning, pain, discomfort, it only signals that certain problems have arisen in the body that require attention.

Show all

1. Why does itching occur?

Currently, there are different theories among specialists that explain the origin of itching. Of these, the most popular are the following:

1. 1 This is a type of pain. It is believed that it appears as a result of mild irritation of normal pain receptors.
2. 2 This is an independent sensation. Some experts believe that there are specific receptors in the body, the irritation of which prompts a person to itch. Receptors can be irritated by chemicals and nerve impulses.

As observations have shown, there are a number of substances, with an increase in the concentration of which, itching may appear or intensify - histamine, serotonin, adrenaline, kallikrein, substance P, opioids, cytokines, growth factors, eicosanoids and others. Heredity is also believed to play a role.

Sometimes itching is one of the symptoms of diseases of the internal organs or stress. He can be:

1. 1 Acute/chronic.
2. 2 Limited (local)/generalized (affects different parts of the body).
3. 3 Continuous/periodic.
4. 4 Weak/moderate/strong.
5. 5 With a known cause/idiopathic (the cause of which has not been established).
6. 6 Occurs in isolation/together with other symptoms: discharge, pain and cutting, rash, and so on.

2. Itching in the intimate area

The intimate zone is a fairly broad concept, including the area of ​​the vulva, perineum and vagina of a woman. Unpleasant sensations can be concentrated in only one of these zones or affect them all. Their localization is one of the main points in gynecology, allowing the doctor to establish the correct diagnosis.

2.1. Vagina

Medium intensity itching is observed with allergies to latex, spermicidal creams, vaginal tablets and suppositories, severe itching with infectious diseases (, and,).

In combination with a feeling of burning, dryness and discomfort in the absence of heavy discharge, it is characteristic of menopausal changes in the vagina, atrophic vaginitis. Against the background it occurs with, and against the background of creamy, watery, white-gray, green or foamy - with gynecological inflammatory diseases (vaginitis, cervicitis, etc.) and STIs.

2.2. Vulva

Vulva is a collective term that includes the external female genitalia. These include the vestibule of the vagina, clitoris, labia majora and minora, and pubis. The vulva area also contains the external opening of the urethra (urethra).

Itching can be limited only to the vestibule of the vagina, and also spread to the lips small and large. The mucous membranes of the vulva can be very itchy with genital herpes, trichomoniasis, thrush, and psychosexual disorders.

Moderate itching is observed with allergic reactions to underwear and hygiene products, as well as with. A special category consists of benign and malignant tumors, kraurosis of the vulva.

The skin of the pubis, inguinal folds and labia majora is very itchy due to the appearance of pubic lice and scabies, eczema, athlete's foot and other fungal infections (dermatomycosis). In this case, redness, weeping erosions and characteristic rashes are also observed.

Sometimes persistent, difficult-to-treat itching, extending far beyond the intimate area, is caused by the accumulation of metabolic products and bile acids in the body against the background of kidney or liver failure or oncology. This condition is painful for a woman.

2.3. Crotch

This is the area of ​​the intimate zone located between the genitals and the anus. Itching in the perineum can be caused by fungal and allergic skin diseases, general somatic pathology (for example, diabetes mellitus, liver disease, kidney disease), benign and malignant tumors of the rectum and pelvic organs, helminths (pinworms), scabies mites.

“Bumps” due to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and healing wounds can itch in the anus area.

Combined itching, covering the entire intimate area, is characteristic of helminthic infestations, herpetic and fungal infections, skin diseases and advanced forms of STIs.

3. Main reasons

The appearance of itching in women and men indicates some kind of malfunction in the body. There are more than a hundred reasons responsible for its occurrence: for example, it could be a reaction to washing powder or new underwear, as well as an undiagnosed infection or diabetes.

In addition, itching in intimate places can occur due to insect bites, natural changes during pregnancy, the menstrual cycle or climate change.

However, usually itching still indicates the presence of some kind of disease, problems with hygiene, or a change in usual lifestyle. Therefore, it is important to promptly consult a gynecologist for medical help.

4. Changes

4.1. Contact allergy

Quite often there is an allergic reaction from the genital organs to intimate hygiene products or the material from which underwear is made. In this case, the mucous membrane of the vulva and vagina is itchy and itchy, there may be redness and slight swelling.

Another case is intolerance to the powder used in washing. Sometimes women notice the appearance of symptoms when using scented sanitary pads and tampons.

4.2. Irritation after shaving

The main source of itching in this case is growing hard hairs that resemble stubble. As a rule, itching occurs mainly in the pubis, the skin of the labia majora and the inguinal folds in contact with them.

The sensation intensifies when wearing tight, waterproof underwear, increased humidity and infection. A careful examination may reveal irritation, moderate redness of the skin, and ingrown hairs.

4.3. Low level of hygiene

Even physiological secretions from the genital tract under the influence of the environment can become a good environment for the proliferation of microorganisms. The situation is aggravated by dirt or dust, as well as exfoliating epithelial cells.

As a result, inflammation develops, leading to tissue damage. It is accompanied by burning, pain and itching. In this case, the symptoms are localized in the area of ​​the vaginal vestibule, labia minora, and clitoris. The discharge changes color and smell.

You can avoid such feelings by following these simple rules:

1. 1 Change your underwear daily.
2. 2 Wash yourself at least once a day, using special hypoallergenic intimate hygiene products or running clean water.
3. 3 It is important not to scratch the skin and mucous membranes (it is better to simply wash with cool water and consult a doctor).
4. 4 During menstruation, pads should be changed as often as possible.
5. 5 Make sure that the fabrics from which the underwear is made absorb moisture well and allow the skin to “breathe”. It is optimal to use white, cotton panties.

5. Physiological conditions

5.1. Pregnancy

Slight itching during pregnancy may occur due to changes in hormonal levels, leading to a decrease in the sensitivity threshold. However, the most common causes of its occurrence are thrush (candidiasis) and bacterial vaginosis. It usually itches the vagina and vulva area.

5.2. During your period

Discharge during menstruation is sometimes accompanied by moderate discharge and its anticipation. This is due to their irritating effect, especially when sanitary pads and tampons are rarely changed.

In addition, during this period, existing gynecological and venereal diseases worsen, so the entire intimate area may “itch” (this depends on the nature of the lesion and the intensity of the symptoms of a particular disease). To understand the nature of the itching and rule out possible infections, consult a doctor.

5.3. Ovulation

During ovulation, the discharge becomes most abundant and watery. They increase moisture in the area of ​​the groin folds and labia and can cause itching, and tight underwear and shaving further aggravate the situation. Normally, symptoms should be short-lived and disappear at the end of the cycle.

5.4. After intercourse

After unprotected sex, a common cause of discomfort in the vagina, vulva and inguinal folds is the reaction of the mucous membranes and skin to the partner’s sperm and microtrauma (during anal sex, itching can be in the anus and perineum).

Less commonly, symptoms after intimacy occur due to allergies to sperm proteins, barrier contraceptives, including condom latex.

5.5. Climax

Vulvovaginal itching during menopause is caused by the extinction of ovarian activity and corresponding hormonal changes.

A woman develops dry mucous membranes, soreness and increased vulnerability of the mucous membranes of the genital tract.

6. Diseases

6.1. Thrush (candidiasis)

The main symptoms of the disease are severe itching in the vagina, vulva area and white, crumbly, cheesy discharge with or without a slight sour odor.

Often occurs during pregnancy, decreased immunity, after antibiotics, or taking systemic glucocorticosteroids. Sometimes the process involves the inguinal folds, anus, and urethra, and additional symptoms include burning and pain.

6.2. Bacterial vulvovaginitis

6.3. Urethritis

6.6. Neuroses and psychogenic diseases

Sometimes unpleasant symptoms occur due to stress or nervous shock. As a rule, in this case, during a gynecological examination, no signs of any pathology are detected (itching without discharge, changes in their color and smell).

6.7. Endocrine disorders

Itching in the labia area, in the vagina and its vestibule occurs with diabetes mellitus, ovarian hypofunction, and thyroid diseases.

6.8. Eczema

Unpleasant sensations with eczema are very pronounced, localized in the area of ​​the pubis, labia, inguinal folds, perineum and spread to other areas. You can also see redness, painful cracks, merging and weeping wounds on the skin.

6.9. Fungal skin infections

In the intimate area, dermatitis can be caused by fungi such as Candida, Microsporum, Trichophyton and Epidermophyton floccosum. They are the cause of inguinal candidiasis, athlete's foot and ringworm. Their characteristic symptoms:

1. 1 Ringworm is an intensely itchy reddish-brown rash in the form of rings with scales and blisters that spreads to the buttocks and genital area.
2. 2 – occurs in the area of ​​the groin folds, where skin friction and damage occur. It becomes covered with weeping cracks with a white coating and redness of the surrounding tissues. As the disease progresses, the itching becomes obsessive and unbearable.
3. 3 Athlete's foot - pink spots and blisters with exudate form in the area of ​​the perineum and inguinal folds. Severe itching and pain occurs.

7. Diagnostic methods

Due to the variety of causes of itching and gynecological diseases, a whole team of doctors is often involved in the examination:

1. 1 Gynecologist.
2. 2 Endocrinologist.
3. 3 Allergist.
4. 4 Dermatovenerologist.
5. 5 Neuropathologist.
6. 6 Therapist.

If necessary, consultations with an oncologist, hepatologist, nephrologist, hematologist, psychotherapist, infectious disease specialist and other highly specialized specialists are also scheduled. For in-depth laboratory and instrumental diagnostics, the following is prescribed:

• smear for oncocytology and colposcopy;
• Ultrasound of the pelvic organs;
• blood tests (general, biochemical), urine;
• examination of stool for the presence of occult blood, coprogram;
• study of hormonal profile and immunological status;
• allergy tests and other studies as indicated.

8. Drugs for treatment

First of all, it is important to eliminate any provocateurs of itching:

• Synthetic underwear, aggressive depilation.
• Scented sanitary pads.
• Replace washing powder, soap, and intimate hygiene products with hypoallergenic ones.
• Remove allergenic foods from your diet.
• Review medications taken based on possible adverse reactions.
• Change barrier contraception and so on.

Along with this, it is necessary to influence the very cause of unpleasant symptoms.

After making a diagnosis, the attending physician prescribes appropriate therapy.

Treatment of itching depending on the cause

Disease	Drugs
Pubic lice	Paranit, Nittifor, Pedilin
Scabies	Benzyl benzoate, Spregal
Atrophic vaginitis	Ointments and suppositories with estrogen
STI	Antibiotics and antivirals depending on the type of infection. Both partners need to be treated.
Thrush	Locally - Clotrimazole, Pimafucin, Butoconazole (Ginofort), Miconazole (Ginezol 7); orally - Fluconazole (Flucostat)
Fungal skin infection	Ointments with glucocorticoids and antifungals - Triderm, Lorinden S, Akriderm GK, Kanizon Plus, etc. Orally - suprastin, tavegil, fenistil.
Liver diseases with cholestasis	Cholestyramine, naltrexone. Sedatives - phenobarbital.
Eczema, allergic dermatitis	Locally - ointments with glucocorticosteroids - Elokom, Advantan, Akriderm, etc. Orally - desloratadine, loratadine, cetirizine, etc.
Neurosis	Psychotherapy and distraction medications can relieve discomfort
Vaginitis	Clindamycin, Terzhinan, Neo-penotran, Polygynax, etc.

9. How can you treat yourself at home before consulting a doctor?

To get rid of itching while waiting for a doctor's appointment, you can use cold lotions and cool baths. Any creams and ointments that contain menthol, zinc, diphenhydramine can be applied to the skin (attention: not to the mucous membranes!!!). They have a distracting effect, somewhat improve well-being and do not interfere with the diagnosis:

1. 1 Tsindol, zinc ointment;
2. 2 Calamine, lotion;
3. 3 Menovazine, pharmaceutical menthol solution.

Ointments and gels with anesthesin and lidocaine can be used only in the absence of an allergic reaction to anesthetics. You should not use vaginal suppositories or douching before consulting a doctor; they make it difficult to make a diagnosis and identify an infection!

Folk remedies do not help cure the disease, so they cannot be used at home without examination by a gynecologist.

10. Consequences

Itching, if left untreated or inadequately treated, can become a serious problem. It is capable of causing:

• insomnia;
• depression;
• depression;
• irritability;
• neurotic conditions;
• refusal to eat;
• decreased performance;
• social isolation.

When scratching, an infection gets into the wounds, inflammation develops, accompanied by pain, purulent discharge, the spread of rashes, and so on.

Some people with severe itching of the genitals try to fight it in a rather unique way: they use various objects that injure the skin and mucous membranes, which only aggravates the situation.