There can be different reasons for itchiness of the area around a women’s vagina (vulva). The medical term for the symptoms is “vulvitis” if the itchiness is just on the outside, or “vaginitis” (inflammation of the vagina) if there is a vaginal discharge. There can be many different causes for vulvitis or vaginitis such as a sexually transmitted infection, yeast infection (not an STI), a skin condition called lichen sclerosus (not an STI), or the irritation may simply be a reaction to a new detergent, wearing thong underwear, or something else. If you don’t have a check-up scheduled with your health care provider anytime soon, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment. Your health care provider may prescribe either over-the-counter or prescription medication.
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