women s health issues
Genital Itching
Treatment of Genital Itching
The condition causing genital itching is corrected or treated when possible. General measures can help relieve symptoms. Changing underwear and bathing or showering once a day help keep the vagina and genital area clean and less likely to become irritated. More frequent bathing or showering may cause excessive dryness, which can increase itching. Using a cornstarch-based unscented body powder can help keep the genital area dry. Women should not use talc-based powders. Washing the area with plain warm water is recommended. But if soap is needed, a nonallergenic soap should be used. Other products (such as creams, feminine hygiene sprays, or douches) should not be applied to the vaginal area. These general measures may minimize exposure to irritants that cause itching. If itching persists, a sitz bath may help. A sitz bath is taken in the sitting position with water covering only the genital and rectal area. Sitz baths can be taken in the bathtub filled with a little water or in a large basin. If a medical product (such as a prescription cream) or a brand of condom appears to cause irritation and itching, it should not be used. Women should talk to their doctor before they stop using prescription products. Applying a mild (low-strength) corticosteroid cream such ashydrocortisoneto the genital area may provide temporary relief. The cream should not be put into the vagina and should be used for only a short period of time. For severe itching, an antihistamine taken by mouth may help temporarily. Antihistamines also cause drowsiness and may be useful if symptoms interfere with sleep. Vaginal infections that cause itching and discharge require antibiotics or antifungal drugs taken by mouth or inserted into the vagina. Lichen sclerosus is treated with a cream or an ointment containing a high-strength corticosteroid (such asclobetasol), available by prescription. 