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The period is associated with significant hormonal and physiological changes in the body, which can affect the natural balance of the vagina. In this situation, some women experience itching, burning or irritation in the genital area, which is sometimes temporary and sometimes a sign of a significant problem. It is important to distinguish between itching due to normal menstrual changes and itching associated with infection or skin disease, as each is treated differently. Factors such as the use of sanitary napkins, increased humidity, skin sensitivity and pH changes can aggravate these symptoms. Knowing the cause of vaginal itching during period helps women better understand their symptoms and reduce unnecessary worries. In this article, you will learn from your doctor about the cause of vaginal itching during period.

cause of vaginal itching during period

Vaginal itching during period is one of the common problems in women from puberty to menopause, which may occur before, during and after period. However, sometimes vaginal itching can be a sign of a serious problem, which should not be ignored. The cause of vaginal itching In period, there are usually two reasons. The first is the natural changes of the menstrual cycle, which can make the skin of the genital area more sensitive, and skin irritation is caused by scented pads, washing gels, tight underwear or sweating. The second is skin and underlying infections or diseases that may be aggravated during these days, because menstrual blood can temporarily raise the pH of the vagina and change the microbial balance.

If we want to categorize the cause of period itching more precisely, the most important options include hormonal changes, fungal infection, bacterial vaginosis, skin irritation caused by health products, some skin diseases such as lichen sclerosis and psoriasis, sexually transmitted diseases, vaginal dryness, and sometimes things like genital lice or hair removal. Note that the cause of vaginal itching during period is different from the cause of body itching during period, and diffuse body itching is more related to skin sensitivity, dryness or other diseases, not just the vagina. In the following, we introduce the causes of vaginal itching during period:

Hormonal changes
• Fungal infections
• Bacterial infections
Allergy to health products and chemicals
• Skin dermatitis and vaginal itching during period
• Lichen Sclerosis
• Lichen planus
• Psoriasis and vaginal itching during menstruation
• Sexual diseases
Vaginal dryness
• Inflammation of the uterus
• Genital lice
• Menopause
• Correction of excess vaginal hair

1. Hormonal changes in period

Hormonal changes such as constant fluctuations in the level of estrogen and progesterone hormones are one of the main reasons for vaginal itching during periods. These changes can disturb the natural pH balance of the vagina, the amount of secretions and the moisture status of the vagina and create a suitable environment for itching. For example, the decrease of estrogen before menstruation by reducing natural secretions and vaginal dryness, and during menstruation by changing vaginal pH, cause vaginal itching.

2. Fungal infections (candidiasis) during period

Vaginal yeast infection One of the most common causes of vaginal itching during periods is caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeasts. During menstruation, due to hormonal fluctuations, changes in vaginal pH, hot and humid environment caused by bleeding and the use of sanitary products, the possibility of contracting this type of infection increases. Vaginal itching may be accompanied by symptoms such as pain and burning during urination or sex, redness, swelling, and discharge that is cheesy and white, but odorless.

3. Bacterial infections (bacterial vaginosis) during menstruation

Naturally, the vagina has beneficial bacteria called lactobacillus, which prevent the growth of harmful bacteria by keeping the vaginal environment acidic. During the period, due to hormonal changes and menstrual blood that alkalizes the vaginal environment, the number of useful bacteria decreases and infections are caused by the increase of harmful bacteria. Also, if sanitary products such as tampons are not changed frequently, the possibility of vaginal bacterial infection increases. Vaginal itching may be accompanied by symptoms such as redness, burning, and white secretions with an unpleasant odor.

4. Allergy to hygiene products and chemicals with period

Allergy to sanitary products such as sanitary napkins is one of the main causes of vaginal itching during periods. These products usually contain artificial colors, preservatives, fragrances, and chemicals, which can cause vaginal itching. If the vaginal itching does not improve after changing the product or is accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, swelling or abnormal secretions, consult a doctor.

5. Skin dermatitis and vaginal itching during period

Genital eczema and skin dermatitis are common causes of vaginal itching during periods, which usually involve the outer edges of the vagina. During menstruation, due to hormonal changes and increased vaginal secretions and bleeding, the skin of the genital area becomes more sensitive, and reacts to environmental stimuli more than before. Genital eczema, in addition to vaginal itching, is usually associated with symptoms such as dryness, swelling, red rashes and raised grains, which require medical examination.

6. Lichen sclerosis during period

Lichen sclerosus is a chronic skin disease, which causes discoloration and thinning of the skin in the genital area. One of the main symptoms of this disease is vaginal itching, which intensifies during menstruation due to hormonal changes, increased humidity, and contact with allergens. In addition to itching during periods, some people experience light spots, thinning of the skin, cracking or pain on contact. Because this disease requires treatment and follow-up, if the itching is long-term or the appearance of the skin has changed, an examination and sometimes sampling is necessary.

English text:
When lichen sclerosus is left untreated, it can cause scarring and increase the risk of cancer of the vulva.
Translated text:
When lichen sclerosus is not treated, it can cause scarring and increase the risk of vulvar cancer.

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7. But planus during period

Lichen planus is an autoimmune disease, which causes severe itching, purple bumps and painful sores in the genital area. During menstruation, the decrease in the level of estrogen hormone can cause dryness and intensification of vaginal itching by affecting the mucous membrane of the vagina. In some cases, red or brown spots, sensitivity, and superficial wounds are seen, and contact discharge and bleeding may even occur. Also, using products such as sanitary napkins or tampons can increase irritation and itching.

8. Psoriasis and vaginal itching during menstruation

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes red and scaly spots on the skin. Psoriasis is not only on the elbows and knees and can also affect the genital area. In genital psoriasis, itching can be intense and the skin red and irritated, but scaling may be less common than elsewhere on the body. During periods, hormonal changes, bleeding and increased skin sensitivity can aggravate this itching. If a person has a history of psoriasis and the cause of itching during period is associated with skin spots in the groin or other places, this diagnosis should be checked.

9. Venereal diseases during period

Some sexually transmitted diseases can aggravate vaginal itching during periods, because they increase inflammation and secretion. Trichomoniasis can be accompanied by itching, burning, redness and yellow or green discharge and sometimes a bad smell. Genital herpes can also be accompanied by pain or itching and the formation of blisters or sores, and may recur in times such as stress or body changes. If there is a possibility of unprotected sexual contact, it is important to test and treat the sexual partner at the same time.

10. Vaginal dryness during period

Vaginal dryness can cause itching, burning and irritability, and these symptoms are felt more in some people near the period. This state may be seen during periods of stress, taking some drugs, breastfeeding or near menopause. If the cause of severe vaginal itching during periods is accompanied by burning during sex and the absence of infectious discharge, vaginal dryness is one of the important options, and its treatment is usually done with moisturizers or hormonal treatments under the supervision of a doctor.

11. Uterine inflammation during period

Inflammation of the uterus refers to inflammations of the internal reproductive system, such as cervical inflammation or pelvic infections, which are mostly characterized by pelvic pain, abnormal discharge, bad odor, and sometimes fever. These conditions are not directly the cause of vaginal itching during period, but they can occur at the same time as vaginitis or vaginal infection and cause the symptoms to worsen. If itching is accompanied by pelvic pain, fever, pain during intercourse, or abnormal bleeding, do not delay medical evaluation.

12. Genital lice during period

Genital lice can cause severe itching that often worsens at night, and small spots or bite marks may be seen on the skin. This itching may continue at the same time as the period and the person thinks that the cause of the vaginal itching is during the period, while the main cause is the parasite. If the itching is very severe and is accompanied by small grains or blue or red dots and itching at night, special examination and treatment should be done.

13. Menopause and vaginal itching before period

In menopause and the years close to it, the decrease in estrogen can cause thinning and dryness of the vaginal mucosa and irritability, and itching is one of its common symptoms. In this situation, the person may still have irregular bleeding and associate the itching with menstruation. If the itching is persistent and is accompanied by dryness, burning, pain during intercourse or urinary symptoms, the doctor may think of menopausal urogenital syndrome and suggest appropriate treatment.

14. Removal of unwanted vaginal hair before period

Hair removal can cause skin irritation, inflammation of the hair follicle and even itching, especially if it is done with a razor, scented gels or shaving too close to the skin. Sometimes, subcutaneous hair or folliculitis causes small grains and itching in the genital area, and on period days, due to humidity and friction, the feeling of itching increases. If you have burning sensation or stretch marks after shaving, it is better to stop shaving for a while and use gentle products and cotton underwear.

cause of vaginal itching before period

Many women have this question, why do we itch near the period? Vaginal itching before period can occur for various reasons. One of the most important reasons is hormonal changes. During this period, the level of hormones fluctuates, and these fluctuations can cause dryness, irritation, and as a result, itching of the vagina. Also, increased sensitivity to fungal infections during this period can also be another factor for itching. Many women experience vaginal itching in the days before their period, which is usually caused by 3 main factors:

1. Hormonal fluctuations
2. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
3. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

cause of vaginal itching after period

In some people, vaginal itching does not go away immediately after the end of menstruation and continues. The cause of vaginal itching after period is usually related to remaining moisture and skin irritation, or the continuation of an untreated infection. Some people experience dryness and inflammation of the outer skin after using the pad for a few days and experience post-period itching. If the cause of vaginal itching after period is accompanied by foul-smelling discharge, urination or pain, the possibility of an infection such as bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis is raised and it is better to be evaluated. Although vaginal itching after period is usually temporary and is nothing to worry about, if it is accompanied by symptoms such as burning, abnormal discharge or pain, consult a doctor.

Common cause of vaginal itching during period	Symptoms	Short initial action
Hormonal changes/dryness	Dryness; pH change near/during period	decreased stimulation; skin care; if persistent, check
irritation/sensitivity to pads and detergents	itching with perfumed/chemical products; redness/swelling	discontinue aromatic products; mild detergent; Regular pad change/keeping dry
fungal infection	cheesy white odorless discharge; burning/redness	Refer for specific diagnosis and treatment (do not repeat self-medication)
Bacterial vaginosis	Unpleasant odor (fishy); thin/white discharge; burning	regular tampon/pad replacement; Medical evaluation and treatment with doctor's opinion
Skin/sexual disease/warning symptoms	Skin spot; ulcer/blister; fever; hip pain; Repetition of symptoms	Quicker referral for examination/testing

symptoms associated with vaginal itching during menstruation

Vaginal itching during period may be the only symptom, but it is often accompanied by other symptoms that help to diagnose the cause. For example, itching with thick white discharge and redness is more in favor of fungus, while a fishy smell and thin discharge can be in favor of bacterial vaginosis. If you have contact pain, blisters, sores, or bleeding, or if itching is accompanied by fever and pelvic pain, it is better to get checked as soon as possible because some causes require immediate treatment. Some of the symptoms associated with vaginal itching during period are:

1. Discharges with unusual color and texture
Swelling and redness of the vagina Burning and pain during urination or sexual intercourse
2. Vaginal dryness that is sometimes accompanied by sores or cracks
3. Unpleasant and fish-like smell
4. Genital wounds
5. thinning of the skin of the genital area
6. Skin rash and hives

treatment methods for vaginal itching during period

Treatment of vaginal itching during periods depends on various factors, which are prescribed based on the main cause of itching, individual conditions of each patient, age, general health status, and the presence of underlying diseases such as diabetes or chronic infections. For this reason, accurate diagnosis of the cause of itching and complete assessment of individual conditions before starting treatment are of particular importance. Treatments can include topical medications, oral medications, lifestyle changes, and personal hygiene.

If the cause of vaginal itching during period is skin irritation, removing the trigger and skin care is sufficient, but if the cause is fungal infection, bacterial vaginosis or sexually transmitted disease, targeted drug treatment is necessary. On the other hand, self-medication with antibiotics or repeated use of fungus medicine without diagnosis can prolong the symptoms. In general, the goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, not irritate the skin, and if there is an infection, to start specific treatment. Some methods of vaginal itching treatment period are:

• Stop using scented products and strong detergents and use mild detergent without odor
• Regularly changing pads or tampons and keeping the area dry
• wearing cotton underwear and avoiding tight clothes
• Refer for testing in case of foul-smelling discharge, pain, fever, sores or recurrence of symptoms
• Start specific medication only after diagnosis or with doctor's opinion

1. Vaginal itching ointment during period

To choose vaginal itching cream during period, it must first be determined whether the itching is related to the external skin or inside the vagina, because the treatment medicine is different. In skin irritation, the doctor may suggest skin protection creams or anti-inflammatory treatments suitable for the genital area, and in fungal infection, local antifungal treatment is suggested. To treat vaginal itching during period, it is recommended to use ointment if there is no heavy bleeding.

Wash the vagina with warm water before use, and use the ointment before going to bed. If ointments are not effective or itching persists, oral tablets or vaginal suppositories are recommended. Be aware that the arbitrary use of combination creams or strong corticosteroids on the genital area can worsen symptoms or hide the infection.

2. Home treatment for vaginal itching during period

Sometimes vaginal itching during period can be controlled and reduced by using different methods and following some health and treatment tips. These methods can include home remedies, topical or oral medications, and lifestyle changes. However, due to the high sensitivity of the vaginal area, it is better to use any treatment method, even simple and home remedies, under the supervision of a specialist doctor or after consulting him. Home remedies for vaginal itching during period are:

• Cold water compress: for this purpose, wet a clean and soft cloth with cold water, and place it on the vaginal area. Avoid direct contact of ice with the skin and do not leave the compress on the vagina for a long time
• Coconut oil: wash the vaginal area well, and after drying, apply a small amount of oil on the external area. Apply this oil only to the outer part of the vagina before sleeping and when using tampons and menstrual cups.
• Aloe vera gel: use fresh and pure aloe vera gel like coconut oil
• Avoid mesh and scented sanitary napkins: use cotton and hypoallergenic strips with high absorption
Hygiene: Change the sanitary pad every 4 to 6 hours

Home treatment of vaginal itching before period

Methods home treatment for vaginal itching before period are more useful when the cause of vaginal itching near period is skin irritation or dryness. In this case, removing strong detergents, using cotton underwear and reducing friction can help, and some people prevent the recurrence of itching by maintaining hygiene and keeping the area dry. But if the cause of vaginal itching before period repeats every month or is accompanied by discharge and burning, there is a possibility of infection or skin problem, and it is better to be checked.

3. Treatment of vaginal itching during menstruation with traditional medicine

Traditional medicine offers natural and effective solutions to treat vaginal itching during periods, which, of course, are not medically approved and may increase irritation. Under the supervision of a doctor, you can use the following methods to treat vaginal itching during periods:

1. Tea tree oil: Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil, and apply to the external area of the vagina
2. Chamomile tea: brew chamomile and after it cools down, wash the vagina with it and then dry it
3. Sitz bath: Fill a tub with warm water and add Epsom salt, baking soda, or apple cider vinegar. Sit in it for 10 to 15 minutes. Do not use tampons and menstrual cups during this time
4. Herbal extracts such as lavender and peppermint: put a few drops of the extract of these plants in a cup of water, and apply it to the genital area with a clean cloth
5. Herbal teas: tea of cow's tongue, chamomile or marshmallow helps to treat vaginal itching

treatment of vaginal itching after period

To treat vaginal itching after period, the first step is to protect the genital area from long-term moisture and remaining secretions. Changing underwear, drying gently and avoiding direct scratching will reduce inflammation and allow the skin to heal. If the cause of vaginal itching after period is associated with a bad smell, abnormal discharge or pain, you should think about infection and the appropriate treatment should be done according to the doctor's opinion.

complications of vaginal itching during period

Vaginal itching during menstruation is annoying, but if it is not treated in time, it can cause complications. Constant scratching may cause cracking, chronic inflammation, worsening pain and burning, and lowers sleep quality and mood. On the other hand, if the cause of itching during the period is an untreated infection, the possibility of spreading the infection or transferring it to the sexual partner is raised, so timely follow-up is important. Failure to timely treat vaginal itching during period can be associated with the following complications:

Vaginal dryness
1. damage to vaginal tissue
2. Chronic and treatment-resistant infections
3. Transmission of infection to other organs

Does vaginal itching cause the period to be delayed?

Vaginal itching alone does not delay the period. However, conditions that cause vaginal itching, such as hormonal fluctuations, stress, or medications used to treat vaginal itching and infections, can affect the menstrual cycle. In this situation, it is better to consult a doctor. Also, some infections can be accompanied by abnormal spotting or bleeding, and the person may think that the period is delayed or changed. If the delay is repeated or accompanied by pain and fever, it is better to do a medical examination.

ways to prevent vaginal itching during period

Prevention of vaginal itching during periods focuses more on reducing skin irritation and maintaining the natural balance of the vagina. Choosing odorless pads and tampons, changing them regularly, keeping the area dry and gently washing the outside can reduce the possibility of itching during periods. If a person has a history of skin sensitivity, it is better to stay away from perfumed products, strong washing gels and tight underwear, because these simple factors are the cause of period itching in many cases. Prevent vaginal itching during periods by observing the following tips:

1. Use odorless pads and tampons and change them regularly
2. Avoid strong soaps, vaginal douche and scented products
3. Cotton underwear and keeping the area dry
4. External wash with lukewarm water and gentle drying
5. Safe sex and testing in case of sexually transmitted disease risk
6. Reference for investigation in recurrent itching or accompanied by foul-smelling discharge and pain
7. Dry the vagina every time after washing.
8. Avoid vaginal douching
9. Using cotton and non-tight basses
10. Changing underwear and pads after sports activities
11. Avoid using wet wipes or vaginal deodorizing sprays
12. Education of health and prevention tips to girls

Conclusion

Vaginal itching during period is one of the problems that many women experience for different reasons such as hormonal fluctuations, vaginal infections, allergies to health products, or certain diseases. If vaginal itching during period is accompanied by other symptoms such as discharge, burning, pain or unpleasant odor, you should consult a doctor. Vaginal itching during period is not always a sign of serious disease, but it should not be completely ignored. Severity, persistence of symptoms and its association with abnormal secretions, pain or unpleasant odor are important in diagnosis.

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