Infective causes of vaginal itching include common vaginal infections such as yeast, which may be accompanied by thick, curd-like abnormal vaginal discharge, or trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection. Other less commonly seen infections include pubic lice.

A good proportion of cases of vaginal itching are due to non-infectious dermatitis or skin inflammation. The skin of your genital region is essentially the same as skin on your body and any causes of skin inflammation can give rise to itching. These include contact dermatitis (inflammation of the skin when it comes into contact with something), which can be due to an allergy or irritation.

General skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis can also manifest as vaginal itching when the skin over the genital region is affected.

In rarer cases, uncommon intrinsic skin conditions such as lichen sclerosis may give rise to persistent, troubling itching.

In menopausal women, lower levels of estrogen result in thinning of the vaginal lining known as atrophic vaginitis, which can manifest as vaginal itching, dryness and discomfort.

Infective causes of vaginal itching tend to be accompanied by other symptoms such as abnormal vaginal discharge.

Yeast infections may give rise to thick, cottage-cheese like discharge associated with soreness.

Other symptoms like spotting (bleeding in between periods) may also suggest an underlying infection.

A careful analysis of lifestyle triggers may be useful in shedding light on what non-infectious factors may be contributing to your itch.

Vaginal Itching that occurs only during your period may be related to skin irritation from menstrual pads, which itching after intercourse could be related to dermatitis from condoms, latex allergies, or irritation from chemicals found in spermicides or lubricants.

The visual appearance of any associated rash may sometimes also be helpful in helping your doctor discern the cause of vaginal itch.

If you have associated symptoms suggestive of a vaginal infection, a high vaginal or endocervical swab test may be useful.

In rare cases, a skin biopsy, in which a small piece of skin is removed for evaluation under a microscope, may be helpful in confirming certain intrinsic skin conditions.

Treatment for vaginal itching depends on the underlying cause.

Antifungals or antibiotics may be used for infective causes. Topical creams are useful in the relief of various skin dermatoses.

These may range from emollients for eczema or dry skin, to steroid-containing creams to help calm inflammation.

Avoidance of any external triggers such as menstrual pads is also crucial in preventing recurrences.

Good personal hygiene and regular washing of the genital region with a gentle soap, as well as wearing light, breathable cotton underwear and avoiding scented feminine products will help to minimise skin irritation and yeast infections.

Also, if you have noticed a specific trigger such as latex condoms or a particular brand of menstrual products, switching to a more suitable alternative will be helpful.

Any vaginal itching that persists or is accompanied by abnormal vaginal symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor.