November 13, 2025

What Causes Vaginal Itching (and How to Find Relief Safely)

8 minutes

Vaginal or vulvar itching usually points to one of five causes: yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, contact irritation or allergy, sexually transmitted infection, or a skin condition
To calm irritation fast, stop using fragranced products and harsh soaps, avoid douching, and switch to gentle, pH-balanced care. Choose breathable cotton fabrics and avoid tight, non-ventilated clothing that traps heat and moisture
Focus on restoring the skin barrier and microbiome — use plain water for cleansing, natural, fragrance-free moisturizers for protection, and steady nutrition to support hormonal and metabolic balance. Relief happens faster once irritants are removed and the body's natural defenses are allowed to reset
Seek urgent care if severe pain, sores, fever, foul-smelling discharge, occurs. Pregnant, diabetic, or immunocompromised women also need extra care
See a clinician if symptoms last longer than three days or keep recurring, since persistent itching often signals an infection, hormone imbalance, or skin disorder that requires professional treatment

...more

By Dr. Mercola

4.6

14871,487 ratings

November 13, 2025

8 minutes

Vaginal or vulvar itching usually points to one of five causes: yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, contact irritation or allergy, sexually transmitted infection, or a skin condition
To calm irritation fast, stop using fragranced products and harsh soaps, avoid douching, and switch to gentle, pH-balanced care. Choose breathable cotton fabrics and avoid tight, non-ventilated clothing that traps heat and moisture
Focus on restoring the skin barrier and microbiome — use plain water for cleansing, natural, fragrance-free moisturizers for protection, and steady nutrition to support hormonal and metabolic balance. Relief happens faster once irritants are removed and the body's natural defenses are allowed to reset
Seek urgent care if severe pain, sores, fever, foul-smelling discharge, occurs. Pregnant, diabetic, or immunocompromised women also need extra care
See a clinician if symptoms last longer than three days or keep recurring, since persistent itching often signals an infection, hormone imbalance, or skin disorder that requires professional treatment

...more