Whether you rock a bald eagle or slay a glorious bush, razor burn can be uncomfortable. Itchy pubes can also be a sign of serious conditions.
If your itchy vulva is persistent or you suspect a more serious issue, seek medical attention. Your doctor can provide a strong treatment plan to help relieve itching.
1. Infections
Shaving can irritate the skin on your vulva and around your pubic hair. This irritation can lead to itching and inflammation. If the itch is severe, talk to your doctor about prescription steroid creams.
If you’re experiencing itching around your labia, clitoris or vaginal area, it could be a yeast infection, also called vulvovaginal candidiasis. This is a common infection, especially in women. It happens when there’s a change in the normal balance of bacteria, usually because of an irritant like skin products, antibiotics or hormonal changes.
Yeast infections can cause thick, white, odorless discharge and pain when you pee or have sex. They can also cause a burning sensation in the vulva and clitoral hood.
If you think you have a yeast infection, try to avoid wearing tight-fitting underwear or synthetic thongs. They can trap moisture and contribute to an imbalance of healthy bacteria in the area. You should also change your tampon or pad often, and never douche (unless your doctor says to). You should also get tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STIs) like chlamydia, herpes, genital warts and gonorrhoea.
2. Irritation
The skin of the vulva and vagina is sensitive, so it’s important to take extra care when it comes to grooming. Using harsh soaps, dyes, perfumes and other irritants in the area can cause itching, burning and irritation. Some women also have skin conditions like dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema that can trigger itching in the vulva or vaginal area.
Itching in the vulva and vaginal area is often a symptom of certain sexually transmitted diseases (STIs). If you suspect that your itching could be caused by an STI, it’s important to see a doctor to get a test.
The good news is that many STIs and other causes of vaginal itching can be prevented by taking some simple steps. This includes wearing comfortable, breathable clothing and using unscented shampoos, soaps and lotions that are gentle on the genital area. It’s also important to shave carefully, using a sharp razor and always shaving in the direction of hair growth. Additionally, avoiding irritants and taking short baths or showers with lukewarm water can help alleviate itching in the vulva and vagina.
3. Menopause
In the run-up to menopause (which can occur as early as the late thirties in some women), your body’s oestrogen levels will drop. This can cause your vulva to dry out, leading to itching and irritation. This is known as vaginal atrophy.
An underlying skin condition may also be to blame for itchy genitals, including types of dermatitis like psoriasis and eczema. Yeast infections, which cause an overgrowth of the naturally occurring fungus in the vulva, can also lead to itching, along with a thick, whitish discharge that smells like sourdough bread.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia, genital herpes, gonorrhoea and trichomoniasis can also cause itching in the vulva. If you’re sexually active, it’s important to get tested for these conditions on a regular basis. A healthcare professional will visually inspect the vulva with a gloved finger and/or a speculum. If an underlying problem is found, they will recommend treatment options. These might include creams, tablets or a vaginal ring insert. They may also suggest using barrier methods such as condoms during sex.
4. Skin Conditions
Many common skin conditions can cause itching around the vulva, including psoriasis (red, flaky patches of dry, crusty skin) and dermatitis (itchy, red, scaly rashes forming bumps). If you have a condition like this, talk to your doctor.
Another possibility is vaginal candidiasis, also known as thrush. Yeast naturally exists on the body and within the vagina, but an overgrowth can lead to itchy, painful symptoms. Yeast infections can be treated with an antifungal medicine that’s available at your pharmacy or doctor’s office. It may be in the form of a pill you take or a cream that you put on your vulva.
Stress can make your immune system weaker, making it easier for infections to grow and attack the genital area. If you’re under a lot of stress, consider trying to get more rest and exercise. Avoid perfumed soaps, shower gels and feminine hygiene sprays as they contain chemicals that can irritate sensitive vulva skin. Also, change out of any damp clothing as soon as possible to prevent a build-up of bad bacteria in the area.
5. Shaving
Shaving can irritate the delicate skin of your vulva and bikini area, especially if you use a dull blade or shave sensitive areas. The irritation can cause red bumps, which are itchy, and may also lead to ingrown hairs. Using a new razor and moisturizing afterward can help prevent these problems.
If the itching persists, talk to your doctor. They might prescribe a topical or oral antifungal medicine that works against yeast infections (like jock itch) and/or hair folliculitis, a condition in which the hair follicles become irritated or inflamed.
The good news is that pubic hair serves a purpose: It helps prevent dirt, pathogens and other germs from entering the genitals. And it reduces friction during sex, which is why some women choose to keep their hair there. But if you’re not comfortable with your bare bits, it’s safe to trim them regularly. Just make sure to use a sharp, clean razor and moisturize afterward to prevent itching, burning or rashing.
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