Understanding and treating chronic vaginal itching

When itching persists despite treatment, specialist care can help identify the cause and provide lasting relief

Chronic vaginal itching is one of the most common and most frustrating symptoms women experience.

If you’ve tried multiple treatments, seen various doctors, and still can’t find relief, you’re not alone. Persistent itching that doesn’t respond to standard yeast infection treatments often has a different underlying cause that requires specialist diagnosis.

At The Women’s Health Vulvo-Vaginal & Genitourinary Clinic, we understand how chronic itching affects your daily life, sleep, relationships, and emotional wellbeing. Our team specialises in identifying the true cause of persistent vaginal and vulvar itching, even when initial tests appear normal.

Chronic itching is not something you have to accept. Let us help you find answers.

Is your itching chronic?

You may have chronic vaginal or vulvar itching if you experience:

Persistent itching lasting more than 6 months
Itching that hasn’t responded to yeast infection treatments
Symptoms that worsen at night or during stress
Itching without visible infection or discharge
Skin changes from scratching (redness, thickness, broken skin)
Itching that affects your sleep, work, or relationships
Tests showing “everything is normal” despite ongoing symptoms

If this sounds familiar, it’s time for a specialist assessment.

Common causes of chronic vaginal itching

1. Lichen Sclerosus

An inflammatory skin condition causing white patches, intense itching, and fragile skin. Requires specific treatment with strong topical corticosteroids.

2. Lichen Simplex Chronicus (Genital Eczema)

Creates an “itch-scratch cycle” where scratching makes itching worse. The skin becomes thick and leathery from chronic irritation.

3. Contact Dermatitis or Irritation

Allergic reactions or sensitivity to:

Soaps, shower gels, bubble baths
Panty liners or sanitary products
Laundry detergents or fabric softeners
Moisturisers, creams, or lubricants
Perfumed products
Tight synthetic clothing

4. Vulvodynia

Chronic vulvar pain that can include burning and itching sensations without visible skin changes.

5. Atrophic Vaginitis

Post-menopausal thinning of vaginal tissue due to low oestrogen can cause itching, dryness, and irritation.

6. Lichen Planus

An autoimmune condition affecting vulvar and vaginal tissue, sometimes causing itching alongside soreness and redness.

7. Psoriasis

Can affect the genital area, causing itchy, scaly patches.

8. Recurrent or Persistent Yeast Infections

Whilst less common, some women do experience frequent yeast infections requiring different treatment approaches.

How we diagnose chronic itching

Comprehensive history

We’ll discuss:

When symptoms started and how they’ve changed
What treatments you’ve already tried
Products you use (soaps, wipes, laundry products)
Activities that worsen or improve symptoms
Impact on your daily life and sleep

Thorough examination

A careful examination can reveal:

Skin changes that indicate specific conditions
Signs of irritation or allergic reactions
Evidence of scratching or skin damage
Conditions that may have been missed previously

Appropriate testing

When needed, we may perform:

Vaginal swabs to rule out infection
Skin biopsy for definitive diagnosis
Patch testing for allergies (if appropriate)

Elimination of irritants

Identifying and removing potential irritants is often a crucial first step in treatment.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Is chronic vaginal itching a sign of something serious?

A: Most causes of chronic itching are not dangerous, though conditions like lichen sclerosus do require treatment and monitoring. Persistent itching should always be properly diagnosed.

Q: Why do yeast infection treatments make my itching worse?

A: If you don’t have a yeast infection, anti-fungal creams can irritate already sensitive skin. Additionally, the preservatives and bases in these creams can cause allergic reactions.

Q: Can stress cause vaginal itching?

A: Stress doesn’t directly cause itching, but it can worsen existing conditions and lower your itch threshold. Stress also increases muscle tension, which can contribute to vulvodynia.

Q: Will I need to use medication forever?

A: This depends on the condition. Some require short-term treatment, whilst others need ongoing maintenance. We aim for the lowest effective dose and frequency.

Q: Is it safe to have sex with chronic itching?

A: Most conditions aren’t contagious, but sexual activity may be uncomfortable. We recommend waiting until symptoms improve and using appropriate lubricants. None of these conditions are sexually transmitted.

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Take the first step towards relief

Chronic vaginal itching doesn't have to control your life. With proper diagnosis and treatment, most women experience significant improvement and can return to comfortable, normal activities.