If you’re transitioning through menopause, whether that means you’re in perimenopause, menopause or postmenopause, you may have encountered the frustrating symptom of vaginal itching. But why exactly does this happen and what can you possibly do about it? Check out this brief video with Bonafide Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Alyssa Dweck, below, to learn more.
VIDEO SUMMARY
Vaginal Itching isn’t Uncommon
Hi, Dr. Alyssa Dweck here, Chief Medical Officer at Bonafide. Did you know that one of the most common reasons to visit the gynecologist is vaginal itching? In fact, we like to distinguish between the vagina, the inside, and the vulva, all of the tissue on the outside. And both are subject to itching for a variety of reasons.
Causes of Vaginal Itching
Probably the most common reason would be infection, such as a yeast infection, BV [bacterial vaginosis], or even STIs [sexually transmitted infections]. Another very common reason for itching would be external irritants. So, some of the products that are being used like soaps, detergents, douches, even menstrual products could be causing vaginal itching because they contain chemicals that are irritating to the vagina and/or vulva.
In addition, hormone changes, especially low estrogen due to perimenopause and menopause, can absolutely lead to vaginal dryness and itching in the vagina and on the vulva. Finally, common skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, something called lichen sclerosis, even bug bites or poison ivy, for example, can cause vaginal or genital itching.
Finally, but thankfully very rarely, precancerous or cancerous changes can sometimes cause itching in the vulva and need to be checked out.
What to Do About Vaginal Itching During Menopause?
So, what can we do to really address this vaginal itching, which can be such an overwhelmingly disturbing symptom. Number one would be to get checked out and treat infection if there's one present with an antifungal or even an antibiotic, if needed.
If vaginal dryness is the cause of itching, then using an over-the-counter vaginal moisturizer like Revaree® or even vaginal or vulva estrogen could be helpful, if you're a candidate. Try to eliminate as many of these over-the-counter irritants as possible by really evaluating ingredients in the products that you're using.
I often recommend what's called a hypoallergenic regimen, which means trying to find products that are free of fragrances, free of dyes, and free of chemicals. Finally, choose your garment material very carefully! Cotton or absorbent moisture wicking materials can be helpful [for easing vaginal itching]. And consider getting out of wet workout clothes and also wet bathing suits as soon as you are able, since moisture can sometimes cause itching.
I hope these tips are helpful.
