Vaginal itching

Your doctor will exam you, including a pelvic exam, and ask questions to help diagnose the cause of your vaginal itching. Thesequestions may include:

When did the itching begin?
Have you had it before?
Is the itching severe?
Does it limit your activities?
Where exactly is the itching? On the inside of the vagina or on the outside (vulva) as well?
How often do you bathe or shower?
Do you use scented soap, scented or colored toilet paper, or bubble bath?
Do you frequently swim or participate in water sports? Do you change your clothes soon after such activities?
Do you wear cotton panties or synthetic ones?
Do you wear tight pants or tight pantyhose?
Do you use douches or feminine hygiene spray?
Are you sexually active? Do you use contraception? What type?
Does anything make you feel better?
Does anything make you feel worse?
Have you tried any over-the-counter creams? Which ones?
Do you have any other symptoms like vaginal bleeding, swelling, rash, or pain on urination?
Do you have a personal or family history of diabetes?
What medications do you take?
What is your menstrual history? Including questions like: How old were you when your periods began? How often do your periods usually come? How long do they generally last?
text continues below

advertisement

Do you have any allergies?

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

Culture and microscopic exam of vaginal discharge
Pap smear
Urine and blood studies (including hormone levels)
Skin biopsies of the vulvar area

Antifungal drugs may be prescribed for yeast infections. When indicated, steroid creams or lotions may be prescribed to reduce inflammation. Ointments containing hormones may be ordered, and benzodiazepines or antihistamines may be prescribed for nighttime relief.

Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial vaginal infections, including sexually transmitted diseases.

References:

Clark LR, Atendido M. Group B streptococcal vaginitis in postpubertal adolescent girls. J Adolesc Health. 2005; 36(5): 437-440.

Edwards L. The diagnosis and treatment of infectious vaginitis. Dermatol Ther. 2004; 17(1): 102-110.

Reid G, Bruce AW. Urogenital infections in women: can probiotics help? Postgrad Med J. 2003; 79(934): 428-432.z