Few things are as distracting (and frustrating) as vaginal itching that won't quit. Whether it hits during a meeting, in the middle of the night, or right when you're trying to enjoy intimacy, that persistent itch can take over your whole day.
So what causes irritation down there, and more importantly, how do you make it stop? Let's get into it.
Vaginal Itching Causes
The first step to relief is figuring out what's actually going on. Several common culprits cause that itchy, burning feeling, and some are easier to fix than you'd think.
Yeast Infections
Vaginal itching and white discharge (especially thick, cottage cheese-like discharge) is the classic sign of a yeast infection. Candida overgrowth happens when your vaginal pH gets thrown off by antibiotics, hormonal changes, high sugar intake, or stress. Over-the-counter antifungal treatments typically clear it up within a week.
Bacterial Vaginosis
If your itching comes with vaginal odor and itching together, bacterial vaginosis (BV) may be the issue. BV happens when the balance of good and bad bacteria in your vagina shifts. A thin, grayish-white discharge with a fishy smell is the giveaway. BV usually needs a prescription antibiotic from your doctor.
Vaginal Dryness
Can vaginal dryness cause itching? Absolutely. When vaginal tissue lacks adequate moisture, it becomes thin, irritated, and itchy. Low estrogen (from menopause, breastfeeding, or certain medications) is a major driver. If your itch is more of a persistent, dry irritation than an acute burn, dryness is likely playing a role.
A hydrating vaginal insert can restore moisture to irritated tissue and reduce that dry, itchy feeling over time.
Contact Irritants
Scented soaps, laundry detergent, fabric softeners, scented pads or tampons, and even certain underwear fabrics can irritate vulvar skin. If you've recently switched products and the itching started, that's a strong clue. Go fragrance-free across the board and see if things improve.
Skin Conditions
Eczema, psoriasis, and lichen sclerosus can all affect the vulvar area and cause chronic itching. If your itch is persistent, doesn't respond to basic remedies, and comes with visible skin changes (white patches, thickening, or cracking), a dermatologist or gynecologist can help.
Hormonal Changes
Perimenopause, menopause, and postpartum hormonal shifts can all trigger itching and burning in the vaginal area. Declining estrogen thins vaginal and vulvar tissue, making it more sensitive to friction and irritation. Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) includes vaginal dryness, itching, discharge, and pain among its symptoms [1].
How to Relieve Vaginal Itching
Now for the part you actually came for. Here's what works.
Switch to Gentle, Fragrance-Free Products
Swap out scented body wash, laundry detergent, and any perfumed products that come in contact with your vulvar area. Use warm water and a gentle, unscented cleanser for external washing only. Never wash inside the vagina.
Moisturize Your Vaginal Tissue
If dryness is contributing to your itch, regular use of a vaginal moisturizer can make a significant difference. Unlike lubricants (which are designed for sex), moisturizers work over time to improve tissue hydration and reduce chronic irritation.
Wear Breathable Cotton Underwear
Synthetic fabrics trap heat and moisture, creating the perfect environment for yeast and bacterial overgrowth. Cotton underwear lets your skin breathe. Skip the thongs if you're actively dealing with irritation.
Apply a Cold Compress
For immediate relief from intense itching and burning in the vaginal area, a clean, cool washcloth held against the vulva can soothe inflammation. Avoid using ice directly on skin.
Use the Right Lubricant During Sex
Friction during sex can worsen existing irritation. A pH-balanced water-based lubricant protects delicate tissue and reduces friction that triggers itching afterward. An intimacy oil can provide longer-lasting comfort for women who experience friction-related irritation.
Talk to Your Doctor
If your itch persists beyond a few days, comes with unusual discharge or odor, or doesn't improve with basic remedies, see your healthcare provider. You may need testing for infections, a prescription treatment, or evaluation for a skin condition.
What to Avoid When You're Itchy
A few things that might seem helpful can actually make vaginal itching worse.
Avoid douching. Your vagina is self-cleaning, and douching disrupts the delicate bacterial balance that keeps it healthy. Avoid scratching, which can cause micro-tears and introduce bacteria. Avoid sitting in wet swimsuits or workout clothes for extended periods. And skip the "feminine hygiene" sprays, which are just irritants with marketing.
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Vaginal itching is uncomfortable, but in most cases it's very treatable. Keeping your vaginal tissue hydrated, choosing gentle products, and paying attention to what your body is telling you goes a long way. Playground's Miracle Melts deliver deep hydration to dry, irritated tissue, and Free Love keeps things comfortable during intimacy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why does the inside of my vagina feel itchy?
Internal itching is often caused by a yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, or vaginal dryness from low estrogen. If it's paired with unusual discharge or odor, an infection is likely. If it's a dry, irritated feeling without discharge, moisture loss may be the cause.
Q. Can stress cause vaginal itching?
Stress doesn't directly cause itching, but it can trigger yeast infections (by suppressing your immune response) and hormonal fluctuations that contribute to vaginal dryness. Managing stress supports your overall vaginal health.
Q. Why does my vagina itch worse at night?
Your body temperature rises at night, and you're more aware of sensations when you're trying to sleep. Yeast infections in particular tend to feel worse at night because warmth encourages Candida activity.
Q. Is vaginal itching a sign of an STI?
Sometimes. Certain STIs, including trichomoniasis, herpes, and chlamydia, can cause itching alongside other symptoms like sores, unusual discharge, or pain. If you're sexually active and have new or unexplained itching, getting tested is a smart step.
Q. How long does vaginal itching last?
With the right treatment, most causes of vaginal itching resolve within a few days to a week. Yeast infections typically clear within 3-7 days of antifungal treatment. If itching persists beyond two weeks, see your healthcare provider.
References:
[1] Gandhi J, Chen A, Dagur G, et al. Genitourinary syndrome of menopause: an overview of clinical manifestations, pathophysiology, etiology, evaluation, and management. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2016
