Itchiness Down There? Can Be A Sign of Yeast Infection?

Itchiness around the vagina? What is a vagina yeast infection? It is estimated that around 1.4 million people in the United States consult gynaecologists with the problem of itching in their private area due to yeast infection. Hence, in other words, it is safe to say that this is one of the common problems affecting women across the world.

It's not only a common problem affecting a lot of women, but also one of the most annoying conditions one can develop. Let’s dig deeper to understand the problem a little more in detail. 

What is a vagina yeast infection?

The Center for Disease Control defines yeast infection as an infection caused due to the overgrowth of a yeast, Candida. Hence, yeast infection is also known as Candidiasis. The medical term for yeast infection around the vagina is known as ‘vulvovaginal candidiasis’ or ‘vaginal candidiasis’ or ‘candidal vaginitis’. 

The yeast, Candida, usually lives and thrives in small amounts in several parts of the body such as the gut, throat, mouth as well as the vagina. Under favourable conditions, this yeast proliferates that results in overproduction. Hence, this results in an infection that causes several symptoms. 

One must make a note here that yeast infections and sexually-transmitted infections are not the same. Yeast infections are not to be confused as sexually transmitted diseases which means these cannot be transmitted from one partner to another during sex. 

What are the symptoms of yeast infection other than vaginal itchiness?

According to a survey, scientists from the Centre of Disease claim that about 20% of women may not develop any symptoms even after developing the yeast infection. 

Generally, women anticipate that they have developed an infection around their vagina with the onset of abnormal symptoms. The primary symptoms that women complain of after contracting the infection include itchiness in private parts and extreme discomfort. In addition to this, one can also experience any one of the following symptoms- 

• Vaginal discharge that is white and has a cottage-cheese texture 
• A burning sensation, especially during sex or while urinating 
• Swelling and redness of the private area, including the vagina and the vulva 
• A rash around the vagina 
• Cracks on the vaginal walls (only in extreme cases) 

It is important to note here that the above-mentioned symptoms may also develop due to another kind of vaginal infection. Therefore, it is important to meet a gynaecologist who can properly diagnose the condition and administer appropriate medications. 

Who is at the risk of developing a yeast infection?

As explained earlier, the infection develops when there is an overgrowth of yeast in the body. There are a couple of factors that can trigger this proliferation. These factors that can lead to overproduction of yeast include- 

• Taking antibiotics regularly or recently 
• Being on hormonal contraceptives 
• Suffering from diabetes 
• Having a very weak immune system, primarily due to taking medicines such as steroids and chemotherapy that can weaken the immune system 
• Being pregnant 

How vaginal yeast infection is diagnosed?

The first step of diagnosis is knowing about the medical history of the person. The doctor may ask a set of questions that helps them gather about the patient’s medical history. Followed by this, they perform a pelvic exam of the vagina. The doctor has a closer look at the vaginal walls and cervix to check the presence of any rash. 

If the doctor sees fit, they can collect a small sample of the vaginal discharge and send it for further tests. At the laboratory, a fungal culture is performed to check the presence of any fungi. Once it is confirmed, the results are shared with the patient. 

Can itchiness around the vagina mean something other than yeast infection?

Yes. Suffering from severe itchiness around the vagina doesn’t necessarily mean it has to be a vaginal infection. Itchiness around the private area can also be due to other causes. Some of the possible causes of irritation in the vagina include- 

• Use of irritants- The most common reason for an itchy vag includes disrupting the normal vaginal pH balance with chemicals present in vaginal sprays. Excessive douching can also remove the bad as well as good bacteria required to keep the vagina safe. Some lesser-known irritants include fabric softener, rough toilet papers, chemical-induced laundry detergents, bleach to clean the sheets, etc.
• Bacterial vaginosis (BV)- When there is an imbalance of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ bacteria in the vagina, gynaecologists explain that it results in bacterial vaginosis. In most cases, BV doesn’t cause any symptoms. However, in case they do, women experience vaginal itching and vaginal discharge which is dull-grey or white in colour. 
• Menopause- During menopause, the production of estrogen level reduces which can result in vaginal dryness. As the estrogen level in the body lowers, the thin layer of mucosa also disappears resulting in vaginal atrophy. Hence, a lot of menopausal women experience excessive itchiness down there. 
• Extreme stress- Stress has become one of the most common factors contributing to development of various ailments including vaginal dryness or itching. The explanation being that stress weakens the immunity excessively. 
• Vulvar cancer- When cancerous cells develop in the vagina, vaginal itching is the most common symptom that develops. These cells can develop in the outer part of the genitals, inner and outer lips of the vagina, vaginal opening and the clitoris.

How to stop itching down there? 

The treatment of curing itchiness down there includes a combination of ointments and creams along with lifestyle changes. 

Doctors prescribe applying antifungal creams around the vaginal continuously for 1-3 days. 

Home remedies can help in getting relief from the itchiness. Some of these are discussed below- 

• Refrain from using scented soaps, lotions or bubble baths 
• Do not use vaginal sprays or douches 
• Wash the vaginal area with warm water and cleanser 
• Do not stay in wet clothes, especially after exercising 
• Using proper protection while engaging in sexual intercourse
• Wear breathable, cotton underwear 

Conclusion 

Although vaginal candidiasis is one of the most common reasons for itchiness in the vagina, it can be due to other factors too. The condition can be easily managed with proper medications and proper hygiene practices. Delaying the treatment can aggravate the symptoms that can be difficult to manage. Hence, seeking guidance from experienced gynaecologists is the only logical option. 

Views expressed are author's own. This is an externally contributed article. SheThePeople is not responsible for the content, research shared in there.

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