To an extent clitoris itching is normal. Your clitoris is highly sensitive and has many nerve endings so it is extremely susceptible to irritations. So an itchy clitoris might be caused due to minor irritation or infection. Most of the symptoms of an itchy clitorious hood can be treated using at-home remedies like wearing breathable underwear preferably cotton, using OTC medications or creams, etc.
If it is not big of a deal, these at-home remedies might be more than enough to soothe your itchy clit. But if this has been going on for a long time and nothing seems to be soothing your symptoms then that is not a good sign. It is better to consult your doctor and express your concern.
Major Causes Of Clitoris Itching
An itchy clitoris might be the symptom of some other infections or conditions that need to be treated. So let us discuss some of the possible causes of itchy clitorious hood and how to treat them as well.
1. Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a rash or discomfort caused as a result of an allergic reaction to a substance that your body part comes in direct contact with. It might be things like soaps, detergents, body washes, lotions, creams, latex, or even fragrances of some feminine hygiene products might cause such reactions. In some cases, people might also experience bumps and blisters.
To counteract this situation you can wash the area and keep it dry. Also, try to stay away from the thing that caused you the reaction. You can clean your lady parts using clean fragrance-free soap if required. Try using anti-itching creams, cool compresses, OTC antihistamines, etc.
2. Yeast Infection
Yeast is a very common fungal infection. People who have weaker immune systems or have diabetes are prone to this condition. Besides itching you might also experience redness, swelling, burning sensation while urinating or during intercourse, and vaginal rash.
The major symptom is the cottage cheese-like heavy white discharge. You can easily treat it at home with some over-the-top counter medications. If this is a recurring event do not hesitate to approach your doctor and express your concerns. They might prescribe oral antifungal infection or long-course vaginal therapy.
3. STI
STIs or sexually transmitted infections might be another major reason for your itchy clitorious hood. So if you are sexually active with a new person or you have multiple sexual partners then it is better to get tested.
Infections like chlamydia, genital warts, genital herpes, etc are some of the examples. With the itching, you might also experience some other symptoms like heavy discharges, unpleasant odor, sores or blisters, and pain during sex or while urinating.
4. Genital Psoriasis
This condition is like eczema with painful patchy skin, discolorations, and itching. Even though it looks very similar to STIs it is not contagious. This condition is not exactly curable, however, you can treat flare-ups and soothe them using the remedies.
5. Bacterial Vaginosis
When there is an imbalance in the population of bacterial imbalance in your vagina, this issue occurs. You might be more susceptible to bacterial vaginosis if you are douching, have an IUD inserted, have an STI, or have multiple sexual partners.
If you have the slightest suspicion that you have bacterial vaginosis, rush to your doctor. The prescription will most probably be an oral antibiotic or vaginal cream to clear the infections and soothe the symptoms.
Also Read:- Vitamins To Balance Female Hormones: Optimize Your Health!
Some other cases that you might be experiencing itchy clit are:
🔶 Lichen Sclerosis – A very uncommon condition that causes smooth white patches and symptoms like itching, redness, pain, bleeding, and blisters.
🔶 Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder Or PGAD – Again a rare condition where the person is aroused without any sexual stimulation. Stress is guessed as one of the reasons for this condition. Might present itself with itchiness, genital throbbing, or pain.
🔶 Pregnancy – Hormonal changes during pregnancy, and increased blood flow might be the reasons. If the itching is accompanied by foul order, unusual discharge, or pain during sex or urination then consult your doctor.
🔶 Menopause – Vaginal itching is a pretty common symptom during menopause and perimenopause.
Final Thoughts
Itchy clit is normal for a majority of the ladies. A minor infection or irritation to something near it might be the reason. You might also experience itching when you are aroused as well. But if you feel like the itching is getting out of your hands then it might be time to go to your gynac and discuss what is going on.
An itchy clitorious hood might be your body’s way of telling you something is not right down there or there are some unwelcome intruders wreaking havoc. So if you see heavy discharge in unusual texture, foul smell, or pain and blisters in the area check in with your doctor regularly and ensure that things are alright down there.
References
- Health Direct (2024) Painful sex for women Available Online at: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/painful-sex-for-women
- WebMD (2005-2024) Why Does My Groin Hurt? Available Online at: https://www.webmd.com/men/my-groin-hurt
- NHS (n.d) Genital Herpes Available Online at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/genital-herpes/
