Itchy Vagina: Causes and Treatments

The medical term for an itchy vagina is vaginitis, which refers to inflammation of the vagina. Vulvovaginitis, on the other hand, is inflammation of the vagina and vulva. As a reminder, the vulva refers to the external genitals you can see, including the clitoris, labia (majora and minora), urethra, and the vaginal opening. The vagina, on the other hand, is the internal canal that connects the vulva to the cervix. 

It’s really important to distinguish the two because there's a difference between what causes vaginal itching and what causes vulvar itching, and the first step is correctly identifying where the itch comes from.

Keep reading to learn about the most common causes of an itchy vagina and how to stop vaginitis.  

Why is my vagina itchy?

You might feel itchy down there for many reasons, from a chronic skin condition to a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Below is a lowdown of the 15 most likely explanations for an itchy vaginal area.

Why is vaginal itching worse at night?

Vaginal itching can be super frustrating, especially when it gets worse at night, just as you’re trying to relax or fall asleep. But you’re not imagining it. There are actually a few reasons why that annoying itch tends to feel more intense after dark.

First, when you’re busy during the day, your brain is focused on work, errands, and everything else. At night, when things quiet down and you’re not distracted, your body becomes more aware of uncomfortable sensations like itching. It’s the same reason why a headache or sore muscle can feel worse when you’re lying in bed doing nothing.

Another reason has to do with your body’s natural rhythms. At night, your skin, including the delicate skin around the vulva, can become warmer and more sensitive. This can make any irritation from a yeast infection, allergic reaction, or even dryness feel more noticeable.

Also, if you’re wearing tight underwear or sleeping in non-breathable fabrics, that can trap moisture and heat, which may make itching worse. If your itching is due to something like a yeast infection or bacterial imbalance, the nighttime environment can make those symptoms flare up.

If nighttime itching is keeping you up, it’s a good idea to wear loose, breathable underwear or sleep without any at all, and avoid scented soaps or products that might be irritating. And if the itch sticks around, it’s worth taking Evvy’s Vaginal Health Test to figure out what’s really going on down there. 

Vaginal infections

Infections are probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think of vaginal itching. Not all vaginal infections cause vulvovaginitis, but here are some of the more common ones that do. 

Yeast infection

Yeast infections, or vaginal candidiasis, are an incredibly common condition caused by the overgrowth of a naturally occurring fungus called Candida in the vagina — most commonly Candida albicans. The most common symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection are:

• Vaginal itching, redness, or soreness
• abnormal discharge that is white and clumpy, like cottage cheese
• burning or pain during sex 
• soreness or stinging when you pee. 

Cytolytic vaginosis 

Cytolytic vaginosis (CV) is a condition that occurs when Lactobacilli, the good bacteria in your vaginal microbiome, overgrow. Yes, you can have too much of a good thing. 

The symptoms of CV are almost identical to those of a yeast infection (abnormal discharge, itchiness, and vaginal pain), which means the condition is often misdiagnosed. It also doesn’t help that CV is very poorly defined. Most doctors aren’t familiar with it, and researchers have yet to determine which Lactobacillus species causes it or what levels of Lactobacilli are “too much.”

Sexually transmitted infections

An itchy vaginal area after sex could be a sign that you’ve contracted a sexually transmitted infection (STI). There are over 30 known sexually transmitted infections and diseases, but not all of them cause vaginal itching. 

Trichomoniasis 

Trichomoniasis, or "trich," is a type of STI caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. Around 70% of people with trichomoniasis don't experience any symptoms, but when they do, they can include: 

• Vaginal itching
• Vaginal irritation
• Fishy-smelling vaginal discharge that is green, grey, frothy, or thin
• Pain or burning when peeing
• The frequent need to pee
• Spotting or bleeding between periods
• Pain during sex. 

Chlamydia 

Chlamydia is the most common STI in the U.S. and worldwide. It’s caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. Like many STIs, it’s generally asymptomatic, but signs of chlamydia include: 

• Abnormal discharge that is white, yellow, or has a foul smell 
• Vaginal itching and burning
• Pus in your urine (pyuria)
• A frequent need to pee
• Pain or burning when peeing
• Pain during sex 
• Pain or tenderness in the lower belly
• Vaginal bleeding between periods.
• Painful periods.

Genital herpes

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection caused by two types of viruses known as herpes simplex virus 1 and herpes simplex virus 2. The symptoms of genital herpes may include:

• Blisters or sores on the vulva, thighs, or bottom
• Vaginal itching and burning
• Pain or discomfort when you pee
• Abnormal discharge.

Pubic lice

Colloquially known as "crabs," public lice are tiny insects that can live on your body hair, including your pubes. They're not technically considered an STI but are generally spread via sexual contact. 

If you have pubic lice, you might experience some uncomfortable symptoms, such as: 

• Intense itching that usually gets worse at night
• Irritation and inflammation from scratching
• Tiny blue spots or blood spots on the skin of your lower abdomen or thighs from lice bites.

Urinary tract infections

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are bacterial infections in your kidneys, bladder, or urethra (cystitis). Common UTI symptoms include:

• Burning or stinging sensation when you pee
• An intense and frequent need to pee
• Itching in your urethra (which can feel like itching in the vulva)
• Feeling like you can’t fully empty your bladder
• Cloudy or red pee that has a strong or foul smell
• Pain in your lower tummy and pelvic area
• A fever. 

Skin conditions

No discharge, just itchy? An itchy vulva isn’t always a sign of infection. Sometimes, it’s caused by skin disorders. Some of the most common skin conditions that can affect the skin around your vulva are: 

Lichen planus

Lichen planus is a chronic skin condition that causes a dry, itchy rash on the labia, clitoris, and vaginal opening (as well as other parts of the body). Other symptoms of vulvar lichen planus include:

• Pain or burning around the vulva and vagina
• Soreness, burning, and itching around the vulva
• Pain when having sex or peeing
• Bleeding after sex
• Abnormal vaginal discharge.

Lichen sclerosus 

Lichen sclerosus is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that causes white, dry patches on the vulva and anus. The symptoms of lichen sclerosis vary from person to person, and some people might not even experience any symptoms. If they do, the most common telltale signs of vulvar lichen sclerosus are: 

• Dry, white patches on the vulva 
• Itching and soreness of the vulva that can get worse at night
• Tearing and bruising of the skin
• Discomfort and pain around the vulva and vagina
• Pain when having sex
• Bleeding, blistering, or ulcers on the vulva.

Vulvar dermatitis

If you're experiencing vulvar itching and irritation, it could be contact dermatitis. Vulvar dermatitis can cause itching, irritation, and inflammation.

This happens when the delicate skin on and around your vulva comes into contact with something that irritates, including chemical irritants in everyday products like fabric softeners, bubble baths, creams, scented soaps, or even clothing. Symptoms of vulvar dermatitis include:

• Redness or rash
• Severe itching and burning
• Cracked, scaly, dry skin, blisters, and bumps
• Swollen or tender vulva.

Eczema 

Another dermatologic issue affecting the vulva is eczema, an inflammatory skin condition that can make the skin red, dry, and itchy. Eczema can be triggered by stress, as well as an allergic reaction to chemical irritants.

Vaginal dryness 

Vaginal dryness and itching go hand in hand. The hormone estrogen plays a crucial role in vaginal health, keeping your vaginal mucosa thick, lubricated, and elastic. Estrogen levels drop thanks to the hormonal changes caused by perimenopause, which makes the vaginal tissue drier and more delicate than usual. Some symptoms of vaginal dryness are: 

• Vaginal itching and soreness
• Redness and inflammation of the vulva 
• Pain or discomfort during and after sex
• Painful sex
• Bleeding after sex. 

Razor burn

Sometimes, that itchy sensation on your vulva is nothing more than razor burns. Shaving can sometimes cause a painful, itchy rash on your skin. It's nothing to worry about, but it can be irritating as hell. You might also notice some itchiness when the hair starts to grow back.

Sex

There are a few reasons why your vagina is itchy after sex, and it doesn't always mean you’ve contracted an STI. 

For one, penetration causes friction that can irritate your vaginal mucosa and the skin of your vulva (both of which are pretty sensitive) — especially if you weren’t aroused enough. 

Another reason why you might feel itchy after sex is due to a reaction to condoms, lube, or spermicides. 

Vulvar cancer

It's rare, but sometimes a persistent itch down there could be a sign of vulvar cancer. Several types of vulvar cancers exist, but itching is a common symptom. In addition, other symptoms of vulvar cancer include:

• An open sore or growth visible on the skin
• Bleeding, pain, or soreness
• Thickened, raised, red, white, or dark patches on the skin
• A mole that changes shape or color
• A lump or swelling in the groin
• Burning or pain when you pee.

Remember that vulvar cancer isn’t common, and these can be symptoms of something much more harmless, like a skin condition or vaginal infection. A good rule of thumb is to contact your healthcare provider if you notice anything unusual down there. 

How to stop itching down there immediately: Treatment options

If you're dealing with vulvar and vaginal itching, the first step is to reach out to your healthcare provider for a diagnosis. There are many potential causes for vaginal itching or irritation, so it's important to get checked out. Your doctor can figure out what's going on and provide you with the best treatment options. 

Depending on the diagnosis, they might prescribe: 

• Antifungal medication: Antifungal creams such as miconazole or fluconazole may be prescribed for a yeast infection. These can be taken orally, as an intravaginal cream, or suppository.
• Antibiotics: If bacterial vaginosis or a bacterial STI is the cause, antibiotics such as metronidazole or clindamycin may be prescribed. Remember to complete the full course of antibiotics even if the vaginal itchiness goes away!
• Antiviral medications: For viral infections such as genital herpes, antiviral medications like acyclovir or valacyclovir can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
• Steroid creams: For skin conditions like eczema or lichen sclerosus, your healthcare provider may prescribe a topical steroid cream to reduce inflammation and itching.

If you're experiencing vaginal itching along with other recurrent symptoms, you might find it helpful to take a comprehensive vaginal microbiome test. Evvy’s Vaginal Health Test screens for over 700 microbes, and our Expanded PCR Panel checks for common STIs like chlamydia and trich. A licensed provider reviews your results, offers a diagnosis, and, if eligible, delivers a personalized treatment plan with expert support every step of the way.

Home remedies for vulvar or vaginal itching

There are a few home remedies for genital itching and burning that you can try: 

• Soak in a colloidal oatmeal bath for around 20 minutes. 
• Place a cold compress over your vulva.
• Apply Evvy’s Anti-Itch Vulva Cream, which offers fast-acting relief from external itching and irritation through hydrocortisone, aloe, and Vitamin E. 
• Use Evvy’s Hyaluronic Acid Suppositories, which hydrate the vaginal lining for long-lasting, hormone-free relief from vaginal dryness, itching, and even painful sex. 

These might temporarily relieve any annoying itching and reduce inflammation, but as always, it’s a good idea to check with your healthcare provider before trying any of them.

Try to avoid any home remedies that contain essential oils or fragrances, as these ingredients can irritate the skin and make itching worse. 

FAQ

Why is my vagina itchy?

You might feel itchy down there for a myriad of reasons. Infections like cytolytic vaginosis, yeast infections, chronic skin conditions, allergic reactions, and STIs cause burning and itching in and around your vagina. Sometimes, it's down to something entirely harmless, like razor burn or not using enough lube during sex. Contact your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment if you're experiencing any vaginal or vulvar itching.

How do stop uncontrollable itching down there?

Treatment for vulvar or vaginal irritation varies depending on the cause. Most infections are treated with antibiotics or antifungals in the case of yeast infections. If a skin condition causes itching, your doctor might recommend topical soothing creams or antihistamine treatment.

Does a UTI cause itching?

UTIs can cause an itching or burning sensation in your urethra, which can sometimes be confused with vaginal itching.

Why does my pubic area itch at night? 

There are a few reasons why vulvar itching gets worse at night. Itching from pubic lice or lichen sclerosus may worsen at night, or it could be due to fewer distractions and heightened awareness of bodily sensations while trying to fall asleep.

How to tell the difference between a yeast infection and just itching?

Feeling itchy around the vaginal area can be uncomfortable, and it's not always a sign of a yeast infection. It’s good to pay attention to any other symptoms you might be experiencing. While a yeast infection often brings intense itching, it usually comes with other signs too, like thick, white discharge that resembles cottage cheese, swelling or redness of the vulva, and a burning sensation, especially when you pee or have sex. If you’re just dealing with mild itching and nothing else, it could be due to temporary irritation from tight clothing, scented products, razor burn, or even a bit of dryness. Yeast infections can build up gradually, so if the itching becomes more bothersome or you notice discharge or inflammation, that could be a sign of an infection.  If you're feeling unsure about your symptoms, Evvy’s Vaginal Health Test can provide you with some clarity and peace of mind.

How long does vaginal itching last?

How long vaginal itching lasts really depends on what's causing it. If the itching is due to temporary irritation, it might only last a day or two and go away once the trigger is removed. But if the itching is caused by something like a yeast infection, bacterial imbalance, or skin condition, it can last several days or even longer if left untreated. For example, yeast infections often cause persistent itching that won’t go away until treated with antifungal medication, and symptoms can last up to a week or more. If itching sticks around for more than a few days, gets worse, or comes with other symptoms like discharge, burning, or redness, it’s a good idea to get checked out.