Vaginal discomfort, and more specifically itching, is an uncomfortable and sometimes painful symptom that often occurs due to irritants, infections, or menopause. Other causes can be skin disorders or sexually transmitted diseases. Most vaginal itching is nothing to worry about. However, you should contact a doctor or gynecologist if the itching is severe or if you suspect any specific reason for it. Here are some of the possible causes of itching and discomfort in the vaginal area and surrounding tissues. Chemicals Exposure of the vagina to irritating chemicals can cause vaginal itching. These irritants can cause an allergic reaction that leads to the appearance of an itchy rash in various areas of the body, including the vagina. Common chemical irritants include soap, bubble bath, feminine sprays, shower gel, topical contraceptives, creams, ointments, detergents, fabric softeners, or scented toilet paper. If you suffer from diabetes or urinary incontinence, urine can also cause vaginal irritation and itching. Skin conditions Some skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis can cause redness and itching in the genital area. Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a rash that occurs mostly in people with asthma and allergies. The rash is reddish and itchy with a scaly texture. It can spread to the vagina. Psoriasis is a common skin condition that causes scaly, itchy, red patches on the scalp and joints. In rare cases, however, symptoms may appear in the vaginal area. Fungal infection Fungi are commonly present in the vagina, but usually do not cause problems. When their number grows uncontrollably, it leads to the development of an infection. Vaginal yeast infection is a very common condition, affecting 3 out of 4 women at some point in their lives. Most often, it occurs after taking a course of antibiotic treatment, since these types of drugs destroy the “good” bacteria along with the “bad”. The “good” bacteria are necessary to maintain the natural microflora of the vagina. An overgrowth of bacteria and fungi in the vagina can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, including itching, burning, and vaginal discharge. Bacterial vaginosis This is another common cause of vaginal itching. Like yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis is caused by an imbalance between naturally occurring “good” and “bad” bacteria in the vagina. The condition does not always cause symptoms. When these do occur, they are usually vaginal itching and an unusual vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor. Menopause Women who are going through or are in menopause are at greater risk of experiencing vaginal itching. This is due to a decrease in estrogen levels that occur during this period, which leads to vaginal atrophy. Atrophy is a thinning of the mucous membrane, which can lead to excessive dryness.Dryness can cause itching and irritation if left untreated. Stress Physical and emotional stress can cause vaginal itching and irritation, although this is not very common. It usually occurs when stress weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections. Cancer of the vulva Rarely, vaginal itching can be a symptom of cancer of the vulva. The disease does not always cause symptoms. However, when they do occur they may include itching, unusual bleeding or pain in the vulvar area. Vulvar cancer can be treated successfully if detected early. This is another reason why annual gynecological examinations are essential.