Not always: Vaginal itching that occurs without discharge or an unpleasant odor is called noninfectious vaginitis. It's caused by a variety of things: hormonal fluctuations; reactions to soaps, detergents, condoms, or douching; tight-fitting clothes; skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis; and perspiration.
An anti-itch cream applied externally should provide relief quickly. To prevent a recurrence, avoid irritants such as scented pads or tampons, scented toilet paper, and antibacterial soaps. If you must use soap, mild kinds such as Neutrogena or unscented white Dove are best. If the itching doesn't subside in 4 to 6 weeks or is accompanied by unusual discharge, talk to your doctor to rule out an infection such as bacterial vaginosis (BV), a yeast infection, or trichomoniasis.
BV is actually more common than yeast infections and is associated with sexual activity and douching, both of which may reduce the protective bacteria in the vagina. A fishy vaginal odor and white or gray milklike discharge are key symptoms. Left untreated, BV can lead to complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, tubal pregnancy, or, if you are pregnant, preterm labor. Antibiotics taken either orally or vaginally will clear it up.
Yeast infection can occur as a result of antibiotics, pregnancy, diabetes, and tight clothing, all of which make the vagina more susceptible to an overgrowth of yeast, which is normally found in the vagina. Symptoms include a white, cottage cheese–like discharge, itching, redness, and irritation. It's treated with antifungal cream, vaginal suppositories, or prescription oral medications.
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite. Itching and redness are usually accompanied by a yellow-green discharge. Treatment requires an antibiotic.
Source: Mary Jane Minkin, MD, is a board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist and a clinical professor at Yale University School of Medicine.
Mary Jane Minkin, MD, is a board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist and a clinical professor at Yale University School of Medicine.
