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Why Do I Itch "Down There?"
There are lots of comments around the blogs here about itching and burning in the vaginal area and what might cause it. Here are some possibilities:
Related Topics: Technorati Tags: yeast infection, pubic lice, scabies. genital herpes, miconazole, clotrimazole, eczema, vaginal itch, women's health
- Yeast Infections: Yeast infections of the labial area can be treated with an over-the-counter vaginal yeast cream (e.g., containing miconazole or clotrimazole).
- Pubic Lice or Scabies: Two other causes of itching that is worse at night or with heat are scabies or crab lice. One does not have to be sexually active to acquire one of these infections. Over-the-counter remedies are available to kill the lice and eggs.
- Genital Herpes: Another possibility would be a herpes outbreak. Sometimes a woman could have a very mild first outbreak then years later have a more severe second outbreak. If herpes is a culprit, you may notice several discrete lesions rather than a generalized rash in that area. If you have NEVER been sexually active then I would discount herpes as a possible cause.
- Eczema: One can get an eczema type rash on the vulva as well. This would be treated with a steroid cream.
Related Topics: Technorati Tags: yeast infection, pubic lice, scabies. genital herpes, miconazole, clotrimazole, eczema, vaginal itch, women's health
68 Comments:
Here's a natural treatment for yeast infection that has worked for me and for others that have tried it. Mix together plain yogurt and acidophilus (taken from opened capsules). I suggest about six capsules to a cup of yogurt. Then apply liberally to the affected area before bed, and during the day if you are staying home. If you have an applicator from a tampon, or OTC yeast treatments, draw some of the mixture into the tube and insert it into the vaginal carefully. Yes, it is messy and a bit smelly, but use a pad and wear loose clothing. Sometimes one application will suffice; but, I recommend repeated application for several days. Keep the mixture cool in the refrigerator and "enjoy" the added benefit of relief from burning. Give it a try. It's natural, and may finally bring an end to that never-ending yeast infection as well as periodic ones; and an end to potentially harsh and expensive medications and doctor visits.
When you are without a yeast infection, I also urge you to use panty liners to avoid contact with your panty fabrics; and even buying new panties after you have recovered from a yeast infection. Try to sleep in a nightie without panties, avoid bubble baths, use mild soaps for cleansing. My gynocologist particularly warned me that Dove as the most irritating for the vaginal area.
I hope someone finds these suggestions helpful. I had not experienced a yeast infection until about two years after my second child. Then yeast became a recurrent problem for me. These recommendations have kept me infection free for several years.
Good luck.
When this happened to me neither my family doctor nor my gynecologist could find the reason. It wasn't yeast or anything else. What it was was a symptom of diabetes. It's not the most common symptom so it is often times overlooked. When everything else comes back negative, check your blood sugar.
To help prevent any yeast infections I regularly drink a glass of cranberry juice- it works!!!
Seems to keep that area at the right pH.
i drink a lot of water everyday and juice.
I had this problem over 2 years. The itching was enough to drive someone insane. No other symptoms than that. No change in discharge. Doctor had me try a hormone cream, then some other cream. They didn't work. Then she had me take fluconazole. Seemed to work, but came right back. I thought it could have been from using Nuva Ring for 3 years, changed back over to the pill. Still there. Had biopsies done. She was checking for Herpes, which I knew I didn't have. Came back negative, but showed a little yeast infection. My problem was far from little. She had me take, after fighting with my insurance company, a dose of fluconazole 3 weeks in a row. I got off birth control, I believe that was the problem the whole time. Funny how it went away then. I had tubal litigation almost 9 months ago and haven't had a problem, down there since. But new problem is inconsistant periods. But it beats scratching myself raw.
I went from having an itch for a couple of days before and/or after my period to having one every day of the month for over 2 years! Gyno couldn't find anything wrong but prescribed about a dozen different things and nothing worked. Decided on my own to use white/unbleached washclothes & cotton panties, Cheer Free, Bounty unscented dry sheets, Downy Free and Dove unscented (any other brands bring the itch right back). Within a month the itching was gone...gyno thinks it might have been contact dermatitis. Have only had a few episodes in over ten years. Hope this info helps.
Don't forget about trichomoniasis, which is an STD. Then there's also allergic reactions to spermicide, latex and whatever else may be used "down there." Remember too that douching does more harm than good!
Peace
I am 52 years old and for the first time in my life I have started this itching and I don't think it is on the inside just the outside.I will definitly try these sugestions. The over the counter sure isn't working for me, and I hate paying the money to a dr to just give me diflucan and send me home. So thanks for the tips. I am just happy to come across this blog because I find it hard to talk to other women about this subject. jbug of SC
You have not mentioned another serious diagnosis, Lichen sclerosus. LS refers to a benign, chronic, progressive dermatologic condition characterized by marked inflammation, epithelial thinning and distinctive dermal changes. It also causes the itching symptom, and if ignored can progress to more serious stages so it should be reported to your physician.
I, too, have had an itch "down there" for years. More than one gyno have checked me for everything imaginable, and all tests have come back negative. I don't use latex condoms, nor am I on the pill, plus I don't have a yeast infection. I even went to a dermatologist for a facial issue and told him about the itching, and he told me that I have contact dermatitis and suggested using nothing but Dove or Aveeno, and use nothing that contains aloe, glycerin, or lanoline. I tried Dove for a while and All Free and Clear for my clothes, and the itch continued (thanks for the tip about the irritants in Dove!), then I tried using no soap at all, but it obviously was in my clothing, so I tried putting them in the washing machine with nothing but white vinegar, and that helped some. The most effective body wash I use now is Aveeno Exczema Body Wash. It is expensive, but it definitely works! I'm the only one using it, so it'll last for awhile in my house. I'll also try the suggestion about the yogurt, though, because the itch does come back periodically. Hey, what can I lose?!?!
I thought I was the only one who has this horrible labial itching. I'm 52 and entering menopause next month, and even though I feel great, I attributed this itching to depleting hormones. I recently had the flu and bronchitis and my doc gave me 2 inhalers - a steroid and albuterol. Since I only take herbal or natural supplements, I only used these inhalers 3 or 4 times each. Meantime, I had 2 lymphatic massages to push the bronchial issues out, but it also pushes any stagnation out (the meds). I stopped taking the meds 2 weeks ago and the itching started last week. Very coincidental. I tried a few natural remdies, but found Aveeno Dry Skin Lotion to work best. I even bought a small tube to bring to work, just in case. . . Hope this inconvenience doesn't last much longer, it can become unbearable & frustrating.
Well, looks like Aveeno
wins. I'm going to have to go get some because I can't take this much longer at all. I am going to see a doctor tomorrow and I'm going to bring it up. I feel that it's spreading. Anybody have this happen? jbug
Definitely see your primary physician and possibly a GYN. I finally did and I wish I hadn't waited. The cause of my severe itching was lichen sclerosus (as someone mentioned) and after just a few days of treatment with a prescription steroid ointment I have complete relief. Lichen is thought to be an autoimmune disorder and, according to the GYN, can cause changes to the vulvar tissue that you'd rather not experience. My treatment is daily use of the ointment for a month, then I'll see the GYN again. She said I'll have to use the topical steroid about twice a week to keep the problem under control, but that's easy enough to do.
Definitely see your primary physician and possibly a GYN. I finally did. The cause of my severe itching was lichen sclerosus (as someone mentioned) and after just a few days of treatment with a prescription steroid ointment I have complete relief. Lichen is thought to be an autoimmune disorder and, according to the GYN, can cause changes to the vulvar tissue that you'd rather not experience. My treatment is daily use of the ointment for a month, then I'll see the GYN again. She said I'll have to use the topical steroid about twice a week to keep the problem under control, but that's easy enough to do.mar1195
Definitely see your primary physician and possibly a GYN. I finally did. The cause of my severe itching was lichen sclerosus (as someone mentioned) and after just a few days of treatment with a prescription steroid ointment I have complete relief. Lichen is thought to be an autoimmune disorder and, according to the GYN, can cause changes to the vulvar tissue that you'd rather not experience. My treatment is daily use of the ointment for a month, then I'll see the GYN again. She said I'll have to use the topical steroid about twice a week to keep the problem under control, but that's easy enough to do.
Ladies, something you may not have considered is the brand of toilet tissue, moist wipes, or pads\tampons you use. I always used White Cloud tissue until I moved in with my roommate. She used Angel Soft, no big deal I thought; until about 3 or 4 days later! I itched nonstop nothing helped! I was so scared I had contracted a disease from somewhere since I work in the medical field. We happened to run out of her toilet tissue so on the way home from work I picked some up. In 2 or 3 days the itch subsided and I NEVER used Angel Soft again. I can also use just 1 brand of pads, and any tampons irritate me so bad it makes me hate the world. Just another thought to add to these great sggestions and ideas.
The cause of my severe itching was lichen sclerosus too. Getting a biopsy of my vulva was no fun, but at least now I know. See your doctor!
The cause of my severe itching was lichen sclerosus too. Getting a biopsy of my vulva was no fun, but at least now I know. See you doctor!
I am relieved to read I am not alone. And not crazy. The docs act like I'm an idiot. I have been struggling with this for well over a year.
It began on the outer labia and spread up onto my belly. I thought I had shingles. The doctor tried to tell me I had chigger bites or bed bugs, but my husband doesn't have any "bites" so Doc decided that wasn't it and then settled on contact dermatitis and gave me some steroid cream.
I used that and got it off my belly. I had a bit of peace this spring but now that its hot again just the labial itching is returning (and very intensely) mostly at night, or if I have a very strong hot flash. I have a patch of flaky skin on the belly but its not itching.
I do believe this has to be related to menopause, because it began just a few months after becoming fully menopausal and I have never had anything like this before. Also, the increased itching sensation with the flashes makes me feel like it must be hormonal.
I am really glad I'm haven't jumped off the roof yet now! I'm itching like a junkyard dog these summer days! I've been washing with vinegar, drying with baking soda and can't relieve this itch! Both sides of my vaginal area (but not inside) and under my breasts are inflamed and driving me insane! I'm ready to move to Alaska to get out of the humidity!
I have been trying athlete foot spray because the ingredient is recommended for fungal infections. That doesn't seem to help for very long, cuz once I start sweating then the itch goes into overdrive.
I'm going to try the Aveeno wash to see if that helps but the hot flashes of menopause undermine all my efforts. Cotton underwear, no fragrance toilet paper, Free&Clear Detergent, no perfumes - Gold Bond powder is my only saving grace during the day at work. Hate to go to a doctor for this but before I'm committed I guess I'll have to give into reason.
I mean no malice, but I've never been more happy to read comments about women and their itching labia. I have struggled with itching on the outer skin area of my vagina for too long. I've been to the doctor, I've treated it with yeast treatments, I take acidopholis, drink vinegar water, take vinegar baths, don't use soap, only use sensitive soap, and I've had hardly any relief. I was certain I was going crazy. The Dr's said, no yeast, no infections, no STD's (same partner for two years) and that it would eventually go away. Wrong! A few months ago I was diagnosed with iritous (inflamation of the iris), and it can be associated with an auto immune disorder. Now reading your comments I can see through the darkness. This has been such an awkward experience, and I really felt like I had no where to turn. I am going to go to my Dr and mention Lichen. I am just really hopeful I can get my sweet and kind vagina back and exchange this foreigner that has taken it's place.
tleflahpy:
YOUR SYMPTOMS ARE EXACTLY LIKE MINE. I DO NOT HAVE ITCHING IN THE VAGINAL AREA, OR EVEN CLOSE, JUST ON THE SIDES OF MY VAGINAL AREA, AND WITH AN UNUSUAL ODOR, AND HAVE SINCE AUGUST. ALSO, WITHIN THE LAST MONTH, UNDER MY LEFT BREAST IT HAS BECOME INFLAMED AND ITCHES. I AM MONOGAMOUS, AND HAVE BEEN SO WITH MY HUSBAND SINCE WE MARRIED OVER 8 YEARS AGO, AND WAS NOT INVOLVED BEFORE THAT. IN ANY CASE, CAN YOU, IF YOU KNOW WHAT THE CAUSE IS, OR SOMEONE, EXPLAIN THIS TO ME, WHAT THESE SYMPTOMS ARE. THANK YOU SO MUCH!
Now that summer heat is over, my symptoms relieved greatly. I even have been using my seborrhea dermatitis shampoo on my body. Seems the rash is related to the humidity here in FLA. I never did go to the dermatologist about it, too embarrassed to show him my private areas! Shame on me for that but cider vinegar and dandruff shampoo abated most of the itching. I wonder how much menopause symptoms had to play in this itch opera!
My problem is with incontinenance. Whenever I sneeze or cough I leak. Well the urine is making me itch. Now I've scratched myself raw and can't find anything to stop it. Vagisil cream works the best along with a diaper rash ointment. But only if I haven't scratched too much. Any suggetions to get rid of this itch???
Okay please I don't know what to do. I am 28 years old and just started itching vaginally, around the pubic area, labia folds, and rectum area, have alot of vaginal discharge which I never had before. I kinda think it's a yeast infection, so I bought vagisil oinment but it is not working I don't know what to do cause this will drive you insane, and help anybody???? Now I am on Hemo-dialysis would that have something to do with it??
if anyone knows please help!!! i am only 18 years old and i have no clue what is wrong with me. i have a rash like symptom and it is spreading. it started on my inner thigh. kind of like on the crease where my leg and vaginal area just about meet. it has spread onto my upper thighs and on the back of my butt. it is under my armpit and under both breasts and on my lower belly. it itches really bad and is embarrassing. i have no clue what to do. i live alone and dont have insurance to see a doctor. anyone with any idea's please help because i am very scared and it itches and hurts.
i've read some of your comments can anyone help me with this one i have an itch on the outside of my vagina sometimes on the inside when i use my feminie wash. i have a very, very foul odor and i don't know how to get rid of it i can smell it and i know other people can to i'm married and he's my only partner is there any kind of home remedy i can use or so i have to go the gynecologist help please don't have insurance to see a gyno what do i do HELP
i've read some of your comments can you help me with this one i have an itch on the outside of my vagina sometimes on the inside when i use my feminine wash and i also have a very, very foul odor i can smell it and i know other people can too is there any kind of home remedy i can use or do i have to go to the health department or an gynecologist. HELP VERY EMBARRASSED AND FRUSTRATED i am married he is my only sexual partner
Hi,
I just ran across this thread and had to put my 2 cents in.
About 2 years ago i started having AWFUL intense itching in the creases of my legs near my vagina,and on the outer fleshy part of my vulva near my vagina, and on my labias too. It was terrible, and seemed to get worse when i sweated down there..i swallowed my embarrassment, and decided to make a DR appointment when i noticed a horrible sore that had popped up on my labia...and was getting bigger ( it grew to the size of a dime in a months time, and was very painful and itchy.) The itching and pain from that sore, and the itching on my vulva drove me nuts.. so I went to my family DR and he prescribed several different things and nothing worked. After nothing helped,he then referred me to a gynecologist..the gyno examined me and then said i needed surgery to remove the sore on my labia, and have it biopsied...i had the surgery and he removed half of my labia..well to make a long story short.. the sore he removed was malignant, and i was diagnosed with Vulvar Cancer. He believed the cancer was taken care of with removing my labia, but sent me to a gynecological oncologist to be monitored. I was diagnosed early thank God..and i still have to go for check ups every 3 months because i still have the itching "down there" (severe itching is a sign of Vulvar cancer, VIN, and Lichens too) last week i had to have another biospy cuz i have been experiencing extreme itching down there again..and after the oncologist did a vinegar wipe, places showed up on my vulva that looked suspicious so she did another biopsy. ( which hurt like heck i might add..yikes) i am waiting on those results and hope everythings ok....she says if it comes back abnormal i have to have laser...but if it comes back ok, i have to start using a chemo cream 3 times a week for the next 3 months to kill the cancer cells.
I am sorry to ramble on and i dont mean to scare anyone...but i wanted to let you ladies know
whomever has these symptoms PLEASE tell your gynecologist, and PLEASE get it checked out.
Dont ignore it.
I have done alot of research on Vulvar Cancer lately.. its a scary and horrible disease when detected too late.
if you are experiencing extreme itching "down there" that doesn't go away, nothing helps, or seems to get worse.. PLEASE make an appointment with your gyno to be checked for this ASAP!
Better to be safe,than sorry.
God bless, and Good Luck!
another disease that hasn't been mentioned and is ratehr common in the american population is seborrhea dermatitis (it affects 3% of all people). Seborrhea not only gives a person dandruff, but it can also affect other skin areas (such as under the bra line), in skin fold areas and also in the anogenital area. It's a chronic inflammatory skin disease which can cause itching. Treatment consists of using anti-fungal agents and steroid creams. If you think you might have this see a dermatologist (skin MD) or your gynecologist.
Thanks ladies for blogging about this subject. If it was a male with incurable itch and pain they would be taken more seriously. I thank "my 2 cents" for the info on labial cancer. I will go for a biopsy because I have been in pain for 4 months with what started as an itch, seen 3 doctors, been on 2 different antibiotics and using steroidal cream. My labia now has an excruciating sore and is in necrosis. I have been tested for herpes and given anti viral creams and now I believe I should be tested for cancer.
this has been a big help! I wanted 2 ask my mom but i just couldn't. I made an appt 2 get back on the "Ring" birth control and asked for a pap. while I'm in, so i could slide that question in 2 my dr. Someone suggested changes in tampons i usually use Pearl but my husband picked me up O.B & it seamed to have happened around that time. Someone also suggested the Angel soft toilet paper might be causing my itching & stinging while finishing up in the restroom... ill change that and have 2 see how that works. Crossing my fingers! I know it cant be an std.. but i hope its nothing so serious that it could prevent us in the long run from any future for baby's or something..
thanks ladies
Cancer? Scabies? If you are not sure about it, take a look at some of the pictures on www.informationonsymptoms.com You should be able to tell by comparing to those photos.
I have been battling for a year and a half what I thought was or is a yeast infection. Nothing seemed or seems to work. I am 68 y/o. Went to my Gyn this morning for the second time in about 3 months. He immediately said he doesn't like the looks of it; deadened it with a shot of lidocaine (try that for an OUCH). Did a biopsy and won't have the results until a week from today. I told him I have a history of skin cancer - have had about 12 basal cell and squamous cell cut out of my body during the past 5 years. He said "that was my thought." So I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
thank all of you wonderful ladies for putting up your posts. I have been dealing with this issue for about two months. In early March, I got my very first yeast infection. I took an over the counter remedy (Monistat) and it seemed to work fine. Then about a week later I found out that I had tonsilitis (not fun). I was given two injections and i had to take oral azythromycin another 5 days after that. Then the itching came back. I had yet another yeast infection so I used the Monistat yet again. However, now I'm having my menstrual period and I am itching so badly I could cry. Could this be yet another yeast infection? Is there anyone else who gets them habitually. I plan to have visit the doctor and have a pap smear this week.
HI, I was wondering if someone could help. I am young, have had 2 kids and I have constant "dis" down there. I have gone to two different doctors and even left another after not finding any infection, told me that I just had to deal with it. I have tried everything, the cranberry juice, the water, the creams (which made it worse) and going to the doctor. One gave me pills that nearly made me pass out but still no change. I don't know what to do. I also wear the cotton underwear but again, no change. Since I have not found a doctor who can help, cna anyone else?
I hear you! Sounds like we are all in the same state with this ITCH! I finally found the answer for me and think it will help some of you too. Yes, watch the TP, the type of soap, to much sugars is not good, creams - powders and such work some but the best home remeidy I found was a few drops of Tee Tree oil (melaleuca oil)mixed with a Tablespoon of baby oil. Don't use straight tee tree oil since the tee tree is to strong. Use a tissue and wipe it on itchy area.Repeat during the day diffrent times. Seemed to releave itching and cleared it up for me every time. Good Luck
No one has mentioned this but anything made from tomatoes seems to bother me as well as some of these other triggers already mentioned. Ketchup, pizza sauce. Bothers me both vaginally and anally. I'm premenopause and I'm finding my body changing monthly. Not fun.
Ladies, I was just diagnosed with Lichen Sclerosus and was prescribed the steroid cream. The cream has made a great deal of difference already. Please don't wait to see your gyn especially if you are postmenopausal. This can lead into other things if not treated.
I am 53, had my last period in 2005. After dozens of yeast infections and treatments and non-stop itching until I was raw, I finally told my doctor. She sent me to a dermatoligist, who did a biopsy and the diagnoses was Lichen Sclerosus. I was prescribed a steroid cream Clobetesal to use, within 2 days the itching and burning was better and I felt better than I have in over a year. The biopsy wasn't pleasant, but it's not nearly as bad as the constant itching. I also will be using a hormone cream. I'm not too crazy about that, but I will do whatever works to keep this mess cleared up.
For years, I suffered from what I thought were "mild" cases of yeast infections (or Candida, as some call it). Nothing more than a simple tube of Monistat wouldn't clear up.
It wasn't until I had a daughter and she started to suffer from chronic yeast infections that I started an on-line (and off-line!) crusade to understand more about the disease, why she (and I) have it and how we can get rid of it forever
Hi, I am 20 and I have an itch down there, my labia specifically
its red and has some blister like stuff.. im not sure if they r blisters. theyre like red like the area there and just a little bit bumpy.. barely obvious.
Are those herpes or smthn else?
hey, im 16 years old and i have a huge problem... ive had a continual vaginal itch for about three days... its driving me nuts... u can't even see anything and there is no discharge, its just driving me insane... SOMEONE HELP ME PLEASE!!!
I don't always have an itch...but I often have a sour smell, under my breasts and under my belly...occasionally where my leg and vagina meet. Odor comes with a moist, almost oily, residue.
Residue and odor are sometimes accompanied with an itch.
I'm 61 years old...have been married 37 years...and monogamous for all those years.
For under my breasts, last year, my doctor gave me a script for a cream...Lotrisone Cream...which seemed to work then...but this time...I just can't get rid of the smell.
Help...I'm sure other people can smell it too...and it's just so embarrassing!
@judeela:
Lotrisone is an anti-fungal cream - are you still using any anti-fungal creams? If those areas are continually moist/you live in a hot/humid area, then they could be susceptible to fungus. Also, some peoples' immune systems aren't as sensitive to fungus, leaving them vulnerable to infection.
I would try:
-Washing the areas with soap and warm water often and drying well.
-changing clothes (bra!) when they become moist and washing often
-boost your immune system with vitamin C, moderate exercise/sleep, and good eating habits (cut down on sodas, desserts and other high-sugar foods!
-see your doc again just to make sure! compromised immune system can be a symptom of something else!
I've had the same problems with the extreme itching longer than I care to mention. I have an appt. tomorrow for a biopsy since I suspect lichens. I'm already in tears for fear of the pain. As for the redness under the breast, belly, thighs, etc.,I've had that too--yeast. No over the counter stuff worked for me. See your doc. for Nystatin. I was prescribed a 20-day supply of pills as well as powder to apply topically (the cream didn't work--kept me too moist.) It was a miracle! I still keep the powder on hand for flair-ups!
I have had frequent yeast infections now for about 1 year and half now. It started when I went in for my yearly and my gynecologist noticed a discharge. She tested it and found that it was in the "Candida" family of fungal infections. She prescribed Flagly (sp chk) which I took over the course of 7 days (it was the most disgusting pill I have ever had to swallow - it was incredibly bitter!!!) Aside from the slight discharge which I wasn't aware of I had no other symptoms (i.e NO ITCHING) I had not experienced a yeast infection since I was 18 (I'm 36 years now)and that was due to wearing these jeans that were oddly sewn and they punished my vagina. That was the first and last time I ever wore them - I trashed them after that. AFTER I TOOK the Flagyl - I experienced a YEAST infection!!!!! Well I found out later on that yeast infections may result after using antibiotics - it was the WORST I had EVER EXPERIENCED. After that bout - things cleared up and stayed that way until I got pregnant and experienced a miscarriage - during that incident - I lost alot of blood which severely decreased my blood count. After the procedure - I expereienced overall weakness and yeast infections consistently for 5 months.
I did some research on the internet and discovered some reasons why I would be having chronic yeasts infections:
diabetes
weakened immune system
HIV
tight clothing
non cotton underwear
perfumes
powders
feminine sanitary prodcuts
too much sugar in your diet
etc.
I went to my dr. to rule out the top three. My blood count came back a little low. My sugar levels were okay and no sign of HIV (which I knew would be the case).
I feel that my body just hasn't fully recovered from the huge blood loss I experienced (at least i hope so.)
I found on the internet some natural remedies that I tried and recieved alleviation:
-Garlic capsules (help reduce sugar in the blood)
-acidopholous tablets (help promote the good bacteria that fights those yucky yeast infection causing bacteria)
- Vitamin C tablets at least 500mg (2 tablets everyday) - vitamin c increases the acidic levels of the vagina - yeast can't survive in high acidic environments.
last but not least...........
Pau d' Arco (herbal supplement) it cleans the blood of impurities- like yeast!!!
while i was on these - my yeast infections stopped.
The problem I have is that when I stopped taking them the yeast infection reared it's nasty head again but the difference is that the infection wasn't as severe - BUT i experienced the ITCHING!!!!
I have been using Cortizone 10 daily - it seems to be the only thing that helps the itching dissipate.
I will be going to the Dr.'s for a complete lab work up and consult. I'm dying to feel normal again. It has been so long since I've felt normal in that regard - it's depressing.
I hope that the info was a help for some you ladies.
Right now I feel like I have some sort of rash which is not related to a yeast infection because I'm not experiencing internal discomfort or discharge of any kind. The itching is confined to my labial area. Don't know what's going on - just want normalcy again. :o(
I NEED HELP, I AM 52 YEARS OLD, AND HAVE BEEN FIGHTING A SMELLY RASH THAT COMES UNDER MY BREASTS, UNDER MY STOMACH AREA (I AM OBESE), BUT UNTIL THIS YEAR HAVE NEVER HAD THIS PROBLEM. I HAVE GOTTEN POWDER, CREAMS ETC FROM MY DOCTOR....DO NOT KNOW WHAT ELSE TO DO. THIS IS EMBARASSING....I NEED HELP!
It sounds like a skin yeast condition and you should see a dermatologist. When you bathe or shower, be sure to completely dry off in the air wherever there are skin folds BEFORE you get dressed. Let the air at it as much as possible. You'll need creams to specifically target yeast overgrowth. And I know of one person who was helped by Gold Bond powder but don't know if it helps when it's become this bad. Good luck!
About the smelly odor under the breasts and other areas, I myself had the same problem. I started putting baby powder w/cornstarch after each and every shower and made sure if I skipped one day taking a shower I used a wash cloth to wipe off and redo the powder. Mine started when I had a chest tube in me and could not wash for a week. It took 3 days for the baby powder with cornstarch to start working but the itch and smell improved almost immediately. I am 53 and every day used it under the breasts until they healed. To this day I will still use it under my belly as I too am somewhat overweight and know what smell you are talking about. You have to be consistent with the baby powder and don't use J & J. Use the store brand as the store brand is usually fragrance free which is better. The only powder I found NOT to work was the store brand of Price Chopper. But make sure it is store brand not J & J.
IM 14 AND MY VIGINAL AREA IN FALKEY, ITCHY, SMELLY DISCHARGE AND SOMETIMES VERY RED.
MY MUM DOESNT TRUST ME BECAUSE I ONLY HAVE BOY MATES AND SHE ALWAYS THINKS IM PREGNANT SO IM TOO NERVOUS TO GO SEE MY DOCTOR BECAUSE YOU NEED A PARENT TO BOOK THE APOINTMENT AND MY DAD ISNT IN MY LIFE.
HELP PLEASE NATURAL TREATMENTS
So I'm really worried now I have lice or something because it only itches at night. I didn't think I scratched that hard but ended up making myself bleed. But it seems to go away for the time being with A&D ointment. I've never been to the gyno, since I haven't had sex yet, but if this doesn't get better I'll have to go.
My problem with yeast infection under my breasts and under my belly actually gets worse, when I use any kind of powder.
I finally mentioned it to my dermatologist...I've been too embarrassed to mention it in the past...and he proscribed Clotrimazole and Betamethasone Dipropionate Cream.
It works.
People don't realize you can get a yeast infection anywhere other than the vagina.
I'm overweight...so I get it under my belly and under my breast. You can also get it in your mouth...then it's called Thrush. And, it you have it vaginally and give birth, the baby can have Thrush.
Anyway, after five years of dealing with this problem, the prescription seems to do the trick. If I start getting itchy, I just use the cream for about seven days.
Hi. i am so saddened that we all have this problem. i mean geez, It's not like we are sleeping around or being careless, but wow isn't the vagina a wicked little thing. hahah I have endometriosis and i just wondered if anyone had itching from that. It isn't all the time but just during my cycle and after like a week. No discharge no odor, just itchy. I hate this. but i am gonna try fish oil and see if that helps? anyone familiar with what i am talkign about
7 months ago I had surgery to remove lumps in my groin area. The lumps were a staph infection, (not MRSA) and they would periodically drain infection. When they did the surgery, they had to leave the wounds open to allow them to heal from the inside out. I had to take 500mgs. of Cephalexin 3 times a day for a month. After about 2 1/2 weeks of antibiotics, my vulva and anal area began to itch intensely but I was told to finish the antibiotics so I did. After I finished, I was itching so bad that I would claw the skin off of my vulva in my sleep. My doctor gave me Diflucan but it didn't work. I tried Monistat as well, to no avail. I was referred to a gyno who did some testing and ruled out BV or fungal infection. (It should also be noted that I have HPV, a gift from my ex husband.) I was given Nystatin cream, Bactroban atibiotic cream, and a steroid cream, none of which worked. I've tried probiotics. I've even tried boric acid suppositories. Nothing has worked. My gyno did a biopsy, which came back benign but showed inflammation, (although she biopsied the wrong area,) and I have a foul smelling discharge. Now she wants to refer me to a specialist because she can't figure out what it is but it's been 2 weeks and I have yet to hear anything from my gyno about the appointment. Does anyone else have this problem?? I'm afraid I may have vular cancer.
Hi Grace.
I went thru something similiar..i kept getting cellulitus down there due to itching and scratching and that caused infection...i went to my Gyno and he checked me out and did some testing and not to scare you..but for me it turned out to be Vulvar Cancer in the early stage ( i had to get part of my labia removed, too)...however Lichen sclerosus has the same symptoms as Vulvar Cancer. (intense itching too).
If i were you i would go to another gynocologist and have them check you again and run some tests...just to be on the safe side, my friend...good luck to you.
Anonomyous ...Two years ago, I had extensive prolapse surgery. Since then, I have had a vaginal itch that just would not go away..even while on Premarin cream.. Because of one yeast infection after the other, my doctor did some kind of sampling and I had bacterial vainosis and a yeast infection..again..Then I had a vaginal biopsy..No results yet. However, I have since developed a dull stomach pain which never seems to go away. Anyone with a similar problem?
Originally I was searching for something for eczema and came across this blog about a week ago. I also was very itchy down there for probably almost my whole life. I am 27. And I mean...so itchy that I scratch myself until I am bleeding sometimes, uncomfortable and swollen. I usually use sensitive skin soap and body washes, or perfume/fragrance free soaps and laundry detergent. So after reading these comments and suggestions, I went out and bought an Aveeno body wash. Much to my chagrin I couldn't find the Eczema body wash, but opted to go ahead and but the Fragrance Free Aveeno Skin Refief Body Wash. Instantly my eczema is better and my genital and anal itching is almost 100% better!! I am so thankful for finding this exerpt.
I highly suggest you try the same product. It is hypo-allergenic, soap free, moisturizing, fragrance free body wash. Everything I have been looking for. I have been itch-free for at least 5 days. *sigh* Finally!!
I'm 22 yrs old & I have the most uncomfortable irritating problem! me & my former partner got checked out about a month ago & all of our tests came back negative, besides me having a vaginal bacteria infection. I was given some cream to insert for 7 days straight. After the 7 days, we had intercourse & since then I seemed to have gained an uncomfortable itch on the outside of my vagina. It got so bad to where I couldn't sleep at night & I ended up scratching so much I made a few cuts. Now, I'm in an enormous amount of pain when I urinate or wash. I'm afraid to go to the doctor while the cuts are still open because I know it will hurt like HELL when they check. At night, it also seems to get worse & sometimes certain parts of my vagina swell up from itching so bad. Somebody please help me. I'm starting to think I was alergic to the cream I was given to begin with & then the cuts developed from the itching. But now im stuck with this horrible problem that has seemed to have put me on bed rest.
I'm also 22 years old, and have had an itch "down there" for over a year. I even itched a hole in one pair of my sweatpants (embarrassing!). It is just on the outside, not up inside. I also have a strange discharge. I was diagnosed with vaginitis and was given a prescription, but it came right back. I'm not sexually active so, I know it's not an STI, I'll definitely try some of these suggestions, but I'll be seeing a doc soon about this. I just kind of wanted to avoid that, but now I want to take care of it.
Thank you all for sharing these comments as I too have had intense labial itching the past month. I am 32 and it started when I was about 4-5 weeks pregnant and battling a hemmorhoid attack and I was afraid to use anything other than regular preparation H and tucks wipes. After a week of intense itching and swelling I went to the doctor. They gave me cortizone suppositories for the hemorhoids (which they said was ok to use during the 1st trimester)and my tests came back negative for any kind of vaginal infection. They told me to use monistat on my labia. The next week I suffered a miscarriage and had to wear maxi pads for a week which didn't help the situation. I went back to the gyno 2 times because the skin on my labia was peeling off. Doctor said no yeast infection or STD but maybe bacterial vaginosis so they prescribed Flagyl- disgusting antibiotic which leaves a horrible metallic taste in your mouth all day long and makes your pee a dark yellow (glad I read the side effects!). itching is still present and I had a full panel of blood tests run this week, including diabetes which a nurse had suggested to me. All tests came back as normal. They suggested I use Aveeno oatmeal baths in hot water and continue the vagisil. the vagisil helps offer some relief from itching but it is not solving the problem- just masking it by numbing it. The gyno also suggested I use another type of anti-yeast cream - not the monistat but the other one (begins w/Clot) because some people are sensitive to the base of the monistat cream and told me to rub it on my labia. I haven't tried it yet because I am scared to put anything else on there that will irritate it. The Aveeno oatmeal baths offer just enough relief to fall asleep and the swelling of my labia has gone down over the past 3 days but they still don't even look "normal" to me. My gyno doesn't know what else to do or test me for. I might have to call her about they lichen sclerosus that I saw mentioned on here. I am scared to even take a shower that my shampoo will irriate things! I already use All free and clear detergent and wear cotton panties - I have always done those things. I do use Dove soap so I was surprised that someone's gyno mentioned that it is irritating. I haven't used it in a few weeks and I am still having problems so I am not sure what else to do except hound my gyno until they figure it out! I am also meeting w/a surgeon with regards to my hemmorhoids next week so I will take the opportunity to bring it up at that appt. as well and see what he has to say about it. I am wondering if the cortisone suppositories are responsible for some of the irritation. I haven't used them in a week now just in case.
Keep after your gyno until he/she does a biopsy. That's the only to know for sure what's going on and if it's lichen. The steroid cream works really well but has it's own problems....thinning skin down there makes sexual intercourse a little uncomfortable, but ky helps that. I used the cream about a month, twice a day. I only have to use it about once a week now, whenever I feel the itching start to flare up.
I cannot believe there are other people suffering as much as I am with this awful itching problem. Much like the others I thought I had a yeast infection. I tested positive for a little yeast so I was told to use Monistat over the counter for 7 days. It didn't work. I asked for Dyflucan. It worked for about a week and then the itching returned. I went back and the OBGYN said change your wash,detergent,toilet paper, wear cotton panties...yada yada. It didn't help. I went back again (by this visit, I'm pretty sure the nurses are completely annoyed with my complaints)this time I was told they had no idea what the problem is and can only give me a cream called Clotrimazole and Betamethasone. This cream used to help. Lately I only use it sparingly because it drys me out and makes small cuts on my area. I have since developed what are maybe hemmroids. I see a Dr for that on Monday. I was thinking possibly since Hemmroids cause an itch that maybe that's my problem. I am looking for any relief. My husband and I are not making love often enough due to extreme pain of rubbing. I use KY and everything else under the sun and it doesn't really work. Our sex life is suffering trememdously. He has for the most part been somewhat understanding but how long will that last? It's been 8 months since the first itch. I don't know where to turn...I guess I will mention the Lichen Sclerosus to my OBGYN and see what she says. I am going right out and getting the Aveeno bath wash also. Thanks for all the information and sharing such a personal matter so others may know they aren't the only ones suffering with this awful itch.
I just went to a urologist and I mentioned the itching to her. She said the usual stuff about the detergent, fabric softener, dryer sheets, panties and everything else. Then she said something that really floored me. She told me to avoid drying my clothes in the dryer. She said I should hang my clothes out to dry and also sleep without panties at night. But the thing about the dryer really surprised me, especially since I remembered doing that when I was younger and I didn't have this problem. Definitely worth a try!
I know a lot of you talk about the itching, but has anyone had the anal ithing as well. This is extremly uncomfortable, along with the white flacky dry vaginal area. I also have the redness along the vagina and both legs, so unatractive. My sex life has totaly decreased because of this. I do plan on going to the doctor, because it is becoming unbearable, and only happens at night. I really need some help, I have had this for over a year now off and on. Another, thing is I am on a birth control called the Marina, and now that I think about it I have never had this problem, until I started this. I have tried the OTC yeast treatments, they do seem to work, but it always comes back, and it seems worse the then last.
Perhaps someone could help me. I have the itching as many do but I also have white dishcarge always on my vulva. I went to a GYN and he said I had a small amount of yeast in my vagina. This was 4 years ago BUT the problem is even today I still have this white stuff on my vulva and my discharge is normal from my vagina. If i wear a tampoon the white stuff still developes on my vulva so I know its not yeast from my vagina. Im confused. I keep thinking is this coming thru my pores of the vulva but I can not find any info on this. My dr still says today that its only coming from my vagina but if you are wearing a tampoon and nothing is coming thru then why the vulva still covered in this white stuff. If i take a shower it doesnt start to appear for about an hour and by 3 or 4 hours after a shower its very nasty feeling and starts to irritate my vulva skin. Even to touch my skin on the vulva area with my finger it gets on there. Whatever this is I also feel like it is causing me to have a dry vagina (no natural lubercation). Can anyone help me ANYONE? My
GYN just dont seem to want to help much.
Has anyone else experienced severe swelling of the labia along with intense itching? It happened the first time for me about ten years ago. I brought it to the attention of the doctor and he called over every other doctor in the area to have a look and no one had ever seen anything like it. Obviously this was not real reassuring (I was also only 16 at the time). All those doctors had no idea what to do I was tested for everything and in a monogomous relationship and all the tests came back negative, so I just suffered through it. The swelling and itching periodically come back and I have always worn cotton underwear, fragrance free everything, and have done everything I could to prevent its reoccurance. I have brought it up to all my doctors in the last ten years to no avail.Today it was bad enough for me to miss work. Any ideas?
I have read all these comments. I am 23 and have had itching on the outside/lips of my area for over a year. I have been to 3 drs and they all say yeast infection. I took diflucan 3 times and still have my itch. It is so bad that i itch in my sleep. after i take a shower it is dry and flaky. I need help. I have been with my boyfriend for 5 yrs he has no symptoms. i dont know what to do. The itch is just out of control. I itch so much that it gets raw and sore but i need so itch!!!! Please help>>>
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