Why do the labia itch? Irritation of the labia minora. Causes of itching and swelling of the labia

The labia (pudendal) are part of the vulva (the external genitalia of a woman). They are located in the area located between the lower abdominal wall and the perineum and cover the clitoris, vagina, and urethral opening.

The labia majora are a pair of dense folds consisting of adipose tissue, which is the base; skin covering the outer side of the fold and containing the exocrine glands; mucous membrane, which is located on the inside.

The labia minora are a pair of thin folds completely covered with mucous membrane.

Diseases of the labia majora and minora are characterized by the following main symptoms:

• burning;
• pain;
• swelling.

Basically, in the presence of damage to the intimate area, several symptoms appear at once, each of which has its own etiological cause.

• Violation of the rules of personal and intimate hygiene: irregular showering, use of low-quality and allergenic gels and creams, rare changes of sanitary pads and tampons during menstruation;
• Hypothermia or overheating;
• Using underwear made of synthetic material;
• Chemical irritants, toxic substances;
• Infections and diseases of internal organs;
• Use of medications;
• Dysbacteriosis.

Diseases associated with itching of the labia

Among the reasons why the labia itch, the first place is occupied by the presence of infectious diseases (caused by the penetration of pathogenic microorganisms or viruses into the body) or non-infectious nature. The most common of them are:

1. Vulvitis is an inflammatory disease of the external genitalia. The causes of vulvitis can most often be infectious agents - streptococci, staphylococci, gonococci, chlamydia, viruses, fungi; urethritis and cystitis; allergic reactions to various chemical agents; uncontrolled use of antibiotics and hormone-containing drugs; violation of the rules of personal and intimate hygiene. Symptoms of vulvitis: hypoemia; itching and burning sensation; pain that gets worse when walking or urinating; the presence of plaque on the inner surface of the labia majora; Body temperature may rise to low-grade fever. Treatment of vulvitis depends on the etiology.
2. Thrush (Vulvovaginal candidiasis) is a disease of the vagina and external genitalia, which is caused by an opportunistic fungus of the genus Candida. Since these microorganisms form part of the normal microflora of the mouth, large intestine and vagina, the development of vulvovaginal candidiasis requires the presence of such conditions as: long-term use of antibiotics and hormonal contraceptives, high-calorie diet, wearing synthetic clothing. Symptoms of thrush: increased amount of white “milky” discharge from the vagina; itching of the labia majora; burning and discomfort. Treatment is mainly aimed primarily at eliminating the factors that provoked the occurrence of candidiasis, as well as the use of antifungal drugs (Livarol, Fluconazole, Miconazole).
3. Trichomoniasis is an infectious, venereal disease. The causative agent of this pathology is Trichomonas vaginalis. Symptoms of the disease are: vaginal discharge, predominantly yellow in color with an unpleasant odor; hyperemia of the mucous membrane of the pudendal lips; minor bleeding of the mucous membrane in the presence of erosions or ulcers; pain during urination, sexual intercourse; burning sensation; itching Treatment is carried out with drugs of the Metronidazole class.
4. Colpitis/vaginitis is an acute inflammatory lesion of the vaginal mucosa. This disease can occur due to various mechanical damage to the vaginal wall, congenital anatomical mutations or anomalies, incorrect abortions, and disorders of the endocrine system. All of these factors lead to the active proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms, which is the main cause of vaginitis. In addition to itching and a burning sensation in the vaginal area, patients experience itching of the labia majora inside, and there is also an increase in the amount of discharge, which has a purulent consistency and a strong unpleasant odor. Patients are bothered by pain in the lower abdomen and heavy menstrual bleeding. Treatment of colpitis is mainly comprehensive, including the use of antibiotics, restorative therapy to increase immunity, and vaginal douching with special solutions.

Diseases that cause swelling of the labia

1. Bartholinitis is an inflammatory process of the Bartholin (large) gland of the vestibule of the vagina. Etiological reasons: sexually transmitted diseases (chlamydia, trichomoniasis, gonorrhea); infectious, inflammatory diseases of the urinary and reproductive systems (pyelonephritis, cystitis, candidiasis, vulvitis); local microtraumas; failure to maintain intimate hygiene; the presence of a chronic inflammatory or infectious process in the body (pathogenic microorganisms and their toxins enter the Bartholin gland through the lymph and blood flow); surgeries on the kidneys, bladder, uterus. Symptomatic manifestations of bartholinitis: a sharp increase in body temperature to subfebrile and febrile; asymmetry of the pudendal lips (with unilateral lesions); swelling of the labia majora and an increase in its size; painful sensations when moving, sitting, urinating; Possible purulent discharge.
2. Gardnerellosis is one of the types of vaginal dysbiosis. The causative agent is the microbe Gardnellavaginalis. This pathology is manifested by swelling of the labia, pain in the inguinal folds, painful urination, itching and the presence of yellowish-green discharge with a strong unpleasant odor. Treatment is carried out in several stages: the first is the destruction of the pathogen using antibiotic therapy (Metronidazole, Clindamycin), the second is the colonization of the vagina with normal microflora (Acilact, Lactonorm).
3. Vulvodynia is a difficult to diagnose disease characterized by pain localized at the entrance to the vagina and swelling of the labia majora and minora. The vulva contains many blood vessels and nerve endings, which, due to inflammatory processes, become producers of pain. Due to intense pain, swelling appears. The main manifestations of vulvodynia are: chronic inflammation of the labia; strong burning sensation; intense pain in the labia, even with minimal impact on them. For treatment, local anesthetic drugs, novocaine blockades, and various analgesics are used. Surgical treatment may be indicated.

Many women are afraid or embarrassed to seek advice, but it is worth noting that the presence itching, burning, pain or swelling of the labia may be a harbinger of a serious illness, so if you notice at least one of these symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Timely diagnosis and correctly chosen, rational treatment contributes to a speedy recovery. This will reduce the risk of developing various complications of the disease or chronicity of the process.

The skin has the ability to respond with unbearable itching to various irritants. The desire to scratch an itchy place can arise at any time in the most inopportune place. But the most unpleasant sensations occur when the labia itch (especially if this happens in a crowded place or during hard work). It is very difficult for a woman to get rid of the burning sensation without attracting attention to herself. Knowing the reasons that cause itching of female genitals will help you avoid discomfort or quickly eliminate it.

There are many different reasons that lead to irritation of the genitals and cause them to itch. Gynecologists divide them into the following groups:

1. external stimuli;
2. inflammatory process in the uterus, appendages, vagina;
3. diseases of the hematopoietic organs, malfunctions of the kidneys and urinary system, diabetes mellitus and other pathologies of internal organs;
4. changes in hormonal levels during pregnancy, after childbirth, during menopause, etc.;
5. stressful situations.

Therefore, treatment of itching primarily comes down to eliminating the cause that causes it.

Good hygiene is the best protection against irritation in the groin area

The most common cause of itching of the external genitalia is an external irritant.

• Some women neglect the rules of personal hygiene, believing that they can only wash once a day. Hygienists advise washing your face in the morning and evening, as well as washing your labia after sex.
• Many people use panty liners with fragrances. Their “fragrance” in most cases contains allergens. With their constant use, the skin in the labia area does not breathe, which causes redness and burning.
• Often itching of the labia minora causes poor intimate hygiene during menstruation. Pads and tampons are excellent at absorbing menstrual blood. However, we must not forget that they need to be changed 3-4 times a day. The contents of these blood collectors are an ideal environment for the development of pathogens. And if they are not replaced in a timely manner, itching of the vulva occurs and inflammation may develop.
• Today you don't often see panties made from natural cotton. Store shelves are full of imported underwear made of synthetic materials, openwork items made of guipure and silk. All of them, when worn, create a “greenhouse” effect, causing irritation and burning in the genital area.
• Another cause of itching in the genital area is a violation of the vaginal microflora. This is caused by excessive use of vaginal douching and antibacterial soap.
• The use of deodorants, sprays and other cosmetics, an allergy to which can cause itching in the perineum and swelling of the labia due to constant scratching.

In these cases, no special treatment is required. You just need to streamline the hygiene of intimate places, give up hyperallergenic cosmetics and hygiene products, and use underwear that is more comfortable to wear. Local baths (rubbing) with infusion of chamomile, celandine or string will help relieve itching.

Changes in hormonal levels are the cause of itching in the perineum

Throughout life, a woman's hormonal background constantly changes. This occurs during menstruation, during pregnancy and after childbirth, and during menopause. Any surge in hormones affects the condition of the genital mucosa (its acidity may increase). In particular, itching in the vagina before menstruation is caused by a decrease in hormonal levels during the days of the menstrual cycle. In girls and young girls who have not yet given birth, discomfort before the onset of menstruation may be due to their emotional vulnerability. In some cases, it can serve as a symptom of an infectious disease.

A lot of unpleasant moments are caused by itching in the perineum during pregnancy. During this period, a woman’s body is most vulnerable. Due to decreased immunity against the background of hormonal changes, the microflora in the vagina changes. Pathogenic microorganisms begin to develop. They cause irritation of the labia. If your vagina is very itchy during pregnancy, you should consult a doctor immediately. A smear and other tests will help identify the causes of itching and carry out treatment that will not only alleviate the condition of the expectant mother, but also preserve the health of the baby.

You shouldn’t relax after childbirth either. During this period, the body still remains unprotected. Hormone levels may not immediately recover after pregnancy ends. This requires some time. And the risk of itching in the genital area after childbirth remains high.

Most often, women during menopause complain of itching in the labia area. At this time, the production of estrogens (female sex hormones) sharply decreases and their protective effect on the mucous membranes of the urinary tract decreases. The genitals stop secreting secretions. The surface of the mucous membrane begins to experience dryness and peeling. This is the main cause of itching in the perineum. This skin irritation is called kraurosis of the vulva. It is diagnosed only during menopause.

Treatment of genital itching caused by changes in the amount of hormones in the blood is carried out with hormonal drugs, restorative therapy and antipruritic ointments. They are selected individually for each specific case.

Reducing the number of lactobacilli - discomfort in the bikini area

Among the main causes of itching in the perineum are diseases of the genital organs, such as:

1. Genital herpes. It usually occurs against the background of a cold, due to hypothermia. First, redness appears, then burning, itching of the labia minora and their swelling appear. The final stage is manifested by rashes in the form of blisters.
2. Candidiasis (thrush). A disease of fungal origin. At the initial stage, redness occurs, then itching and burning appear. It is noticeable that the labia are swollen. These symptoms are accompanied by a characteristic whitish vaginal discharge in the form of lumps of cottage cheese with an unpleasant odor. There is pain when urinating and during sex.
3. Inguinal athlete's foot. The infection is acquired through the use of shared intimate hygiene items (soap, oilcloth, etc.). You can catch this disease in a public bath or swimming pool. Localized in the groin area. The disease begins with the appearance of small spots around the labia, no more than 1 cm in size. In the center of each spot, a focus of inflammation is noticeable. Gradually, the redness grows, forming a ring, the outer diameter of which can reach 10 cm. The central part inside the ring is cleared. The edges of the spot swell, forming a ridge. Small blisters of inflammation are scattered on it in a chaotic manner, which are very itchy.
4. Gardnerellosis. The infection is spread through sexual contact. Main symptoms:
   1. the labia minora are swollen and itchy;
   2. gray mucus that smells like fish is released from the vagina.
5. Trichomoniasis. Refers to sexually transmitted diseases that are transmitted during sex. It manifests itself as signs of colpitis (inflammation of the vagina), cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix) and disruption of the glands that secrete lubricant during sex. A foul-smelling yellow vaginal discharge appears, causing redness and itching. Urination is accompanied by pain. Discomfort occurs during sexual intercourse.
6. Endometritis (proliferation of the uterine wall caused by inflammation). Accompanied by aching pain in the lower abdomen and purulent discharge. At the same time, the vagina is very itchy. The labia majora are swollen. The uterus is enlarged and thickened. The menstrual cycle is disrupted. Body temperature is increased.
7. In rare cases, pediculosis pubis (lice) and scabies can cause itching. Pediculosis is transmitted sexually. It is treated with a one-time treatment with special preparations in the form of shampoo, spray, ointment. Both partners must undergo the treatment. Scabies mites can be acquired through household means. The treatment is not complicated. It takes no more than 5 days.

Itching of the genitals is a signal of malfunctions of the internal organs

Redness, burning and swelling of the external genitalia can be an alarming signal in a number of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, pyelonephritis, hepatitis, leukemia, anemia, lymphogranulomatosis. These symptoms also occur with the development of cancer of the female genital organs. When the entrance to the vagina itches, you should first consult a gynecologist. Only a doctor can determine the exact causes of the discomfort based on a visual examination of the genital organs outside and inside (using gynecological mirrors), laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies.

Visual inspection reveals:

• the presence of abrasions on the external genitalia caused by scratching;
• dryness and redness of the skin near the entrance to the vagina.

Against the background of inflammation caused by infection, the skin inside the labia is constantly moisturized due to mucus secreted from the vagina. They take on a whitish tint. It is noticeable that the labia majora are swollen. In this case, a smear is taken for bacteriological analysis, blood and urine are taken for a general clinical analysis and a biochemical analysis for sugar. Having ruled out the possibility of female diseases, he will give a referral for examination by an infectious disease specialist, dermatologist and urologist. And only after this a treatment regimen will be selected. Before making a final diagnosis, the doctor gives recommendations on how to quickly eliminate itching and other unpleasant symptoms. Self-medication is strictly prohibited, especially during pregnancy and after childbirth.

Treatment of the underlying disease - effective elimination of discomfort in the groin area

Choosing the right treatment regimen is the key to successfully eliminating itching in the perineum. Medicines to eliminate itching should be selected and prescribed by the attending physician, taking into account certain factors. Taking them on your own can lead to a worsening of the condition. A woman must strictly follow the following recommendations:

1. You should wash yourself at least twice a day, using a warm infusion of celandine herbs, string, chamomile or a solution of furatsilin (a tablet in a glass of water). You need to give up toilet soap for a while.
2. If the vagina is excessively dry, you should use special lubricants or sprays with natural extracts.
3. During treatment, it is better to abstain from sex so as not to irritate the inflamed genitals.
4. You should review your menu, excluding hot seasonings, alcohol (including light wines), and yeast products.

Traditional medicine helps relieve itching

Folk remedies provide effective assistance in eliminating itching and burning of the genitals. They complement the main drug therapy. They are recommended to eliminate unpleasant symptoms after childbirth, and also until the underlying causes are diagnosed and drug treatment is prescribed. When the labia are itchy, the following give good results:

• Sitz baths with sage or chamomile infusion;
• Wash with infusion of St. John's wort or yarrow;
• Lubricating the itchy surface with propolis oil (simmer 30 g of propolis in 100 g of butter in a water bath for 20 minutes).
• Peppermint oil will help relieve irritation and itching. To prepare it, a tablespoon of dry herb is poured into 100 ml of vegetable oil, brought to a boil and infused for 12 hours.

Preventative measures are the best protection against irritation

By following just a few simple rules, you can protect yourself from the discomfort caused by itching of the vagina and labia. This:

1. regular hygiene;
2. refusal of panty liners;
3. use of linen made from natural fabrics;
4. protection against hypothermia;
5. taking vitamin and mineral complexes;
6. preventive examination by a gynecologist at least once a year.

In their practice, gynecologists often have to deal with very delicate problems of the female genital area. One of these problems is itching of the labia.

The genital organs of the fair sex have such a structure that the likelihood of contracting an infection is very high. However, the occurrence of itching is characteristic not only of sexually transmitted diseases. Let's figure out why the labia itch?

Itching is an unpleasant sensation that is accompanied by burning, tingling, and the desire to scratch an area of ​​skin or mucous membrane. It occurs as a result of pathological irritation of nerve endings. The mediator histamine acts as an irritant.

Itching is accompanied by the following unpleasant phenomena: redness, swelling, pain. Abrasions, cracks and ulcers may form in areas where scratching occurs. If an infection gets through defects in the mucous membrane, an inflammatory process develops - vulvitis.

Causes of itching:

1. Failure to follow the rules for caring for the intimate area: choosing synthetic underwear, neglecting regular washing, incorrect choice of intimate hygiene products, using scented pads, irregularly changing tampons during menstruation, incorrect choice of depilation method.

2. Allergic reaction to external irritants.

3. Use of certain medications, such as antibiotics.

4. Sexually transmitted diseases (herpes, trichomoniasis). They are accompanied by the following symptoms: pain in the ovaries, itching, discharge with an unpleasant odor, redness of the mucous membrane. Some infections can be virtually asymptomatic.

5. Overheating or hypothermia.

6. Diseases of internal organs: blood diseases, hepatitis, kidney and bladder problems.

7. Hormonal imbalances caused by diabetes mellitus, hyper- and hypofunction of the thyroid gland, pregnancy, menstruation, menopause, decreased ovarian function.

8. Stress, strong feelings, depression.

9. Vaginal dysbiosis. It represents an imbalance between vaginal microorganisms, accompanied by an increase in the amount of pathogenic flora. The most common dysbiotic condition is thrush. It can develop when the immune system is weakened and antibiotics are taken.

10. Cancerous tumors, especially during chemotherapy.

11. Dermatitis: seborrhea, lichen planus, psoriasis; pubic lice.

What to do if discomfort occurs?

You need to see a gynecologist for an examination, which includes:

a) gynecological examination using a speculum;
b) bacterioscopy and culture of a smear from the genital organs for flora;
c) clinical and biochemical blood test;
d) clinical urine analysis;
e) if necessary, the patient is sent for consultation to a dermatologist, endocrinologist or other specialists.

Based on the results obtained during the examination, the doctor prescribes complex therapy for the identified disease. To reduce itching, ultrasound therapy is prescribed, and the affected areas are lubricated with hydrocortisone ointment. If the itching is painful, the area is injected with anesthetics or the nerve endings are surgically removed.

How to reduce itching?

1) Wash yourself with warm water twice a day. The use of soap is not recommended. For washing, you can prepare a solution of chamomile or furatsilin.
2) You shouldn't have sex for a while.
3) To moisturize the vagina, there are lubricants and gels with medicinal extracts.
4) Follow a diet, exclude spicy, sweet, alcohol, allergens.
5) For treatment, use only those medications prescribed by the doctor.

How to prevent discomfort?

• Follow the rules of intimate hygiene.
• Wear comfortable underwear made from natural fabrics.
• Avoid hypothermia and overheating.
• Do not use panty liners.
• Do not eat allergens.
• Visit your gynecologist twice a year for an examination and smear test.
• To protect against sexually transmitted infections, use condoms.

Itching is an unpleasant sensation that makes a person constantly scratch the problem area. It can cause particular discomfort if it affects the female labia minora. If itching constantly bothers a representative of the fairer sex, you need to be wary and pay attention to other accompanying signs of the problem. This material will help you understand why women’s labia minora itch and what to do in such cases.

Itching in the labia minora: causes of the problem

Gynecological practice speaks of a wide range of reasons that can cause itching and burning in the labia minora. This is about:

• poor hygiene;
• wearing underwear based on synthetic fibers;
• using a tampon for many hours (acceptable limit is 3 hours);
• frequent washing with regular soap;
• allergies to products used for intimate hygiene;
• trauma after intimate relationships;
• overheating or hypothermia;
• stress and too frequent nervous overstrain;
• irritation caused by shaving the intimate area;
• pubic lice bites;
• consequences of taking strong medications;
• inflammation of an infectious or non-infectious type;
• development of cancer.

Itchy lips without discharge: key reasons and features of medical tactics

If a patient complains to the doctor about discomfort in the labia minora without any discharge or swelling, the doctor diagnoses her with: vulvodynia. When talking about vulvodynia, you can breathe easy, since the problem is not infectious in nature. Vulvodynia has two causes: allergies or neuropathy.

Important! Vulvodynia is usually observed in women of reproductive age. With itching, a woman cannot fully engage in everyday activities. Vulvodynia is often accompanied by depression.

When a doctor sees vulvodynia in a patient, he refers her for tests to identify the specific cause. Tests are prescribed so that the doctor can rule out infection of the genital organs. In some cases, an ultrasound may be prescribed. The patient may also be referred to an allergist and psychologist/neurologist. Help from a psychologist or neurologist may be necessary when itching is caused by nervous tension.

Based on the test results, the doctor will be able to find out what caused the itching of the labia minora without discharge. Depending on the cause, the doctor will prescribe a treatment that will remove the problem and eliminate the burning sensation in the sensitive intimate area.

Itching and burning in the labia minora, which are accompanied by swelling and discharge

Very often from the fairer sex you can hear complaints about itching of the labia minora and white discharge. Doctors, upon learning about the discharge, immediately assume the presence thrush(fungi of the genus Candida). Candidiasis can occur in women for various reasons. It can be triggered by:

• a sharp weakening of the immune system;
• taking antibiotics;
• the presence of diabetes mellitus (it has been proven that it is this that often provokes the appearance of thrush);
• hormonal disbalance;
• poor nutrition;
• avitaminosis;
• frequent hypothermia.

If a girl has unusual discharge, the labia minora are inflamed and itchy, it is worth visiting a specialist. A doctor’s visit is also needed when the symptoms gradually go away. Doctors say that vaginal discharge can also occur with endometritis. If it is he who caused the discharge, the doctor will sound the alarm, since endometritis indicates pathological processes in the uterus.

Itching in the area of ​​the small lips can also occur when herpes. But it usually spreads to the labia majora. A herpes virus infection can occur if a woman is hypothermic/overheated, has had a viral infection, or has had sexual contact with a partner who is a carrier of herpes.

If a carrier of a herpes virus infection ignores the itching of the labia minora and redness, new problems may soon await her. Severe redness of the outer labia will cause swelling of the labia minora and itching, followed by painful blistering rashes on the labia minora.

Typically, doctors prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs to patients with the problems described above that eliminate annoying itching, and various antimicrobial agents. During the treatment period, the patient should not become hypothermic or nervous. You also need to carefully monitor hygiene.

Important! If your labia minora are swollen and itchy, you should pay attention to hygiene. It is important to remember the individual products that a woman should use. A woman should have an intimate gel with a neutral pH inclusion. It is also important to change your personal towel frequently.

A woman should wash herself twice a day, using herbal antiseptics.

Doctors also advise women who have itchy labia minora and no discharge to avoid cosmetic gels that are used for washing during the treatment period. It is also necessary to adjust your diet by giving up fast foods, smoked foods, fatty, spicy, sweet and overcooked foods.

Important! You should forget about everyday pads, as they contribute to the development of bacterial vaginal lesions.

The girl has redness of the labia minora and itching: what could be the cause and how can the child get rid of the problem?

The labia minora can become inflamed and itchy in little girls for the following reasons:

• the entry of fungi into the girl’s vagina or the progression of pathogenic aerobic, anaerobic flora, specific infections (gonococci, chlamydia);
• helminthic lesions of the body;
• ingress of foreign bodies (blades of grass, grains of sand);
• disturbances in the body's reactivity during the progression of a secondary infection (during chronic tonsillitis, diphtheria, caries);
• allergies (for example, to chocolate or citrus fruits).

In rare cases, this problem can be caused by diapers, tight underwear, or incorrect principles of washing the child.

In order for the doctor to clearly tell what caused the inflammation of the labia minora in the girl, they prescribe a vulvoscopy, a smear test and a microflora culture. They also take the girls' blood for sugar and send them for a urine test for bacteria.

Vulvitis in girls should be treated with herbal baths, ointments and suppositories that relieve inflammation. The doctor, depending on the cause of vulvitis, may prescribe sedatives and antigestamines. Measures to strengthen the immune system will also not be superfluous.

This material explained why the labia minora itch and why white discharge may occur. Remember the rules of hygiene, follow the recommendations outlined above and don’t let any ailments darken your life!