2023-10-21 17:58:41
Health
Updated on October 21, 2023, 5:58 p.m
It itches and burns in the intimate area: women in particular are familiar with such symptoms. Many women initially assume that it is a fungus when their genital area itches. But that’s not always the case – and incorrect treatment can make symptoms worse.
It itches and burns in the intimate area: women in particular are familiar with such symptoms. It can only be a fungus, right? There are over-the-counter preparations against fungal infections available at the pharmacy and many women initially rely on self-treatment. This can also work – but only if there is actually a fungus behind it.
“Itching in the intimate area can occur due to various causes and often requires an individual diagnosis and treatment,” says Afschin Fatemi, a specialist in dermatology with a focus on aesthetic medicine from Düsseldorf.
Five typical causes of itching
The typical causes of itching in the intimate area include:
– Fungal infections: They cause, among other things, itching, redness and an unpleasant discharge. So-called antimycotics help against this. In most cases, these are ointments or combination preparations consisting of ointment and vaginal suppositories.
– Bacterial infections: In addition to itching, this often also results in an unpleasant odor and discharge. Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics or special vaginal gels.
– Sexually transmitted infections: According to Fatemi, these include chlamydia or trichomoniasis. Antibiotics are usually prescribed for treatment.
– Allergies: They can also lead to itching. In this case, it helps to use hypoallergenic products and avoid the substances that triggered the allergy.
– Dry skin: Dry skin can also be very itchy. Then moisturizing creams and gels can have a soothing effect. “If the skin is irritated by shaving, nourishing creams can also be useful,” says the expert.
Most common cause: fungal infections
The self-diagnosis of fungus is often correct: the most common cause of itching in the intimate area is a fungal infection. In most cases it is a yeast infection with Candida albicans. “These infections are often promoted by factors such as humidity, heat or a weakened immune system,” says Fatemi.
“In addition to itching, the symptoms also include redness, burning and a whitish, crumbly discharge,” says Fatemi, citing important criteria. “A sweet or slightly sour smell can also indicate a corresponding infection, but is not always necessarily present.” It is also important to be able to rule out other possible causes such as bacterial infections, dry skin or sexually transmitted diseases.
Many women are also familiar with the phenomenon of getting a yeast infection when they have had to take antibiotics. Antibiotics not only work against the bacteria that cause illness, but also against the actually good bacteria in the intestines and vagina. If they are weakened, fungi can spread more easily.
If in doubt, it’s better to see a doctor
In some cases, the itching in the intimate area goes away on its own – for example if irritation or hormonal changes are the cause. “However, if the itching is caused by an infection, for example, it is unlikely that it will go away on its own without appropriate treatment,” says the expert.
Those affected should definitely go to the doctor if the itching persists for several days and does not improve. According to Fatemi, even very unpleasant and intense itching should be better clarified. “Another indication may be that the itching is accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, swelling, discharge, burning or pain.”
Even if the intimate area itches again and again or the itching becomes chronic, this is a reason to go to the doctor. A physical examination follows. “Depending on the symptoms and suspected diagnoses, further blood or urine tests may also be ordered to rule out infections or other underlying health conditions,” says Fatemi. Swabs and allergy tests are also possible.
Incorrect treatment can worsen symptoms
If you are not sure what triggers the annoying symptoms, it is better not to treat yourself if you suspect a fungus, but rather go to the doctor. An incorrectly carried out fungal treatment can irritate the intimate area even further.
“The actual cause of the itching may progress or even worsen and trigger complications such as irritation, inflammation or allergic reactions,” says the expert. “This not only delays treatment of the root cause, but also delays recovery.”
Sources used:
– Conversation with Dr. Afschin Fatemi, specialist in dermatology with a focus on dermatosurgery and aesthetic medicine
– Professional Association of Gynecologists: Vaginal fungus / Candida infection / vaginal mycosis / vaginal fungus
– Jena University Hospital: Itching in the intimate area
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