Vulvar itching is a common feminine problem. Vulva is the external part of a woman's genital organ and more often than not, it is mistaken for a vagina. Vulva is made up of the following organ surrounding the vagina:

• Clitoris
• Inner lips or Labia minora
• Outer lips or Labia majora
• Vestibule - found between the labia minora
• Urethral opening - where urine passes
• Perineum - located between the anus and vagina
• Mons pubis - area that is covered with pubic hair

Any irritation, infection, allergy, inflammation and cancer of the vulval parts can result in vulvar itching, sometimes itchy labia. The itch may be mild and short lasting, but often persistents and is mostly felt at night, causing sleep disturbance.

Allergy and irritation of the skin may be attributable to exposure to irritants like products relative to feminine hygiene, lubricants, soap, douches, perfumes, creams, and latex.

Symptoms of vulvar itching (or pruritus vulvae) include itching, stinging, or burning sensation. The vulva may appear swollen and red at times.

Causes of Vulvar Itching

There are various conditions that can cause vulvar itching, which can be classified as follows: 

Infections

Skin Conditions

Cancerous Skin Disorder

As mentioned in the previous discussions, some of the causes of vulvar itching may develop into vulvar cancer. Vulval cancer is characterized by a presence of sore or lump in the vulva that can cause itchiness. Although it can affect women of all ages, vulval cancer is mostly examined in older women. Symptoms may involve the following:

• Persistent itching
• Abnormal bleeding
• Change in skin color
• Thickening of the skin
• Open sore
• Lumps or bumps that are wart-like

Others

• Excessive washing - since frequent washing can also affect the vulva, once a day cleaning is enough.
• Stress and anxiety - emotional disturbances can affect the nervous system. When this happens, the sensations are heightened into itching.
• Allergies - the vulva can easily react to contacts with chemicals that may be found in: scented soaps, shampoos and similar bathing products
• Skin creams
• Intimate deodorants
• Laundry products
• Clothing dye

Home Reliefs for Vulvar itching

First and foremost, it is best to consult your doctor or gynecologist for the proper treatment of vulvar itching. Self-treatment can sometimes aggravate the condition.

There are, however, measures that can be taken to ease or lessen vulvar itching as well as itchy labia.

• Avoid frequent washing of the vulva. Gently cleanse your vulva once in a day.
• Since vulvar itching is brought about by allergies, irritations or infections, avoid the use of bathing and laundry products that may contain chemicals such as perfumed shampoos or soaps, shower gels, detergents and fabric softeners, antiseptics or special feminine wash. When taking a bath, make sure that the shampoo does not run down into your vulva; it would be better if you separately wash your hair to avoid the contact of shampoo and vulva.
• Avoid contact with condoms with spermicide lubricants. Discontinue the use of skin creams, anti-thrush creams especially if you see no improvement after a week's application.
• Avoid contact with chlorinated water. Wait for your vulva to be fully dry before wearing your underwear.
• Refrain from using scented panty liners or sanitary pads. Avoid using colored toilet or tissue papers. Shaving of pubic hair is disallowed.
• Wear cotton panties and avoid tight-fitting shorts or leggings. This is to allow air circulation in the vulval area.
• You may use emollients instead to lessen the itch. It is especially helpful if you cool it first in the refrigerator prior to application.
• Refrain from scratching the itchy parts as the more you scratch, the itchier it becomes. If the itching is unavoidable especially during your sleep, try keeping your nails short. Likewise, wearing of cotton gloves can help protect the skin from further irritation or infection.
• If you are having disturbed sleep due to the itch, you may consider taking antihistamine before bedtime.