Vaginal itching and discomfort can be extremely awkward to experience and talk about. If you’re feeling it, know that you are far from the only one to have ever had that discomfort. Fortunately, an itchy vagina is often not serious and theroretically could be caused by seemingly insignificant or invisible triggers. In some cases, however, it can reveal an underlying issue to be addressed.

How Serious Is Vaginal Itching with No Discharge?

The severity depends on the exact cause of your itchiness. In some cases, your itching may be caused by seasonal dermatitis or spells of eczema. Other times vaginal itching may be a sign of something more serious like an underlying infection or exposure to an allergen. To determine what’s causing your vaginal itching, it is important to keep track of all your symptoms and any lifestyle changes that may have caused a shift in your vaginal health. 

What Causes Vaginal Itching?

Allergies

Vaginal itching with or without discharge may expose an allergy that was previously undetected. The most common allergies to affect the vaginal area include scented soaps and hygiene products, lubricants, condoms, and clothing detergent or fabric softeners. Other symptoms commonly seen with allergies include:

• Severe itching
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Rash
• Dryness
• Flushed skin

If you introduced a new scented product or potential allergen before you noticed the itching, try removing that allergen and see if it makes a difference. Doctors can also test for allergies. 

Irritation

Irritation can be caused by several triggers. Razor burn will typically fade on its own, but it is important not to aggravate the area during the healing process. 

Aside from razor burn, vaginal itching and discomfort can be caused by tight clothing or clothing that retains moisture. Wear looser clothing and a breathable fabric, like cotton that does not hold moisture to provide airflow and more comfort. 

Pubic Lice

Pubic lice, also known as “crabs,” are tiny insects that attach themselves to pubic hair or coarse hair anywhere on the body. No matter where the lice are located, they tend to cause intense itching. Other symptoms include inflammation, fever, blood spots near bites, and general irritation. 

Pubic lice are typically transferred from one person to another during close contact, especially during sex. The lice can also be transferred through shared blankets, towels, sheets or undergarments. Pubic lice can be treated with over-the-counter lotions and shampoos. In extreme cases, a doctor may prescribe medication. 

Hormonal Shifts

Hormonal shifts are often associated with puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Any of these stages can trigger vaginal itchiness along with other discomfort. Pregnant women are also more likely to develop yeast infections, which can cause itchiness.

Infection

There are several types of infections that can cause vaginal itchiness. 

• Yeast Infection: Yeast infections are common, affecting up to 3 out of 4 women in life at least once. They can appear during any stage of life but are especially prominent in women between the ages of 18 and 44. The exact cause of yeast infections can vary. Oftentimes they occur with a change in hormones, pregnancy, taking certain antibiotics, diabetics or in people whose immune system is compromised. Monistat offers products to treat yeast infections at home in either 1, 3 or 7 day treatments.
• Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI): STIs like gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trich are sometimes associated with vaginal itchiness and burning. If you suspect you’re suffering from an STI, talk to your doctor. Since these infections are transferred through sexual activity, it is important that both you and any partners are diagnosed and treated by your doctor.
• Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): BV is a condition that happens when the “good” and “bad” vaginal bacteria are out of balance.  It usually occurs in people who are sexually active. BV sometimes goes away without treatment, but antibiotics are typically needed and you should seek care if you have symptoms.