Genital itching is annoying, but in most cases it has an innocent cause such as a yeast infection, dry skin or irritation after shaving. Sometimes itching in the pubic area can be a sign of an STI, such as trichomonas or herpes. The tricky part is that itching on its own doesn't reveal what's behind it. This article lines up the possible causes and explains when a test may give you peace of mind.
Let's say something reassuring straight away. An irritated genital area very often does not mean an STI.
What can cause genital itching?
Genital itching can have many different causes, from a yeast infection or dry skin to irritation from soap, shaving or tight underwear. A smaller share of cases is linked to an STI. Because the complaint is so general, it's usually not possible to read the cause from the itching alone.
According to Thuisarts.nl, itching of the vagina or vulva is a common complaint with varied causes, of which a yeast infection is one of the best known (Thuisarts.nl).
Below we split the causes into two groups so you get a sense of the difference.
Which causes can point to an STI?
A number of STIs can cause itching or irritation, often together with other complaints such as discharge, blisters or a burning feeling. Still, itching isn't specific, so this list is a possibility and not a diagnosis. Only a test can confirm an STI.
- Trichomonas - can cause itching, irritation and changed discharge, and is still sometimes overlooked
- Genital herpes - often starts with itching or a tingling feeling, followed by painful blisters
- Chlamydia or gonorrhoea - more often cause a burning feeling or discharge than itching, but irritation can occur
- Pubic lice - cause intense itching in the pubic hair, often worse at night
According to Soa Aids Nederland, complaints such as itching, discharge or a burning feeling are possible signals of an STI, but many STIs run without any complaints at all (Soa Aids Nederland).
So the fact that an STI is on this list says nothing about how likely it is for you. It only shows that itching can sometimes play a role.
Which causes are often innocent?
Most genital itching is not caused by an STI but by everyday, innocent causes. These often pass on their own or are easy to address. Even so, a test can give peace of mind if you're unsure, because the complaint alone doesn't show the difference.
- Yeast infection (candida) - causes itching, redness and sometimes white, crumbly discharge
- Dry or sensitive skin - can cause itching and a tight feeling, especially in cold weather
- Shaving irritation - itching and small bumps after shaving or waxing
- Irritation from soap or products - perfume, shower gel or panty liners can irritate the skin
- Tight or synthetic underwear - can cause friction and warmth where itching starts
Put simply, genital itching is far more often a skin issue than an STI. That said, clarity can be reassuring.
A yeast infection is also very common and has nothing to do with sex. Factors such as a course of antibiotics, hormonal shifts or sweating a lot can make the skin more prone to itching too.
Why doesn't itching reveal its cause?
Itching is a non-specific symptom, which means very different causes can produce the same complaint. A yeast infection and trichomonas can both cause itching, while they need a completely different approach. That's why a test is sometimes the only way to get certainty.
This is exactly why we're careful about drawing conclusions from complaints alone.
If you want to understand better when discharge may point to an STI, read our article on when discharge can point to an STI. If your main complaint is when you urinate, then a burning feeling when urinating may give more clarity.
When can an STI test help?
A test can help when the itching persists, returns or comes with other complaints, or when you've had a risk contact and simply want certainty. An STI test confirms whether an infection is the cause, so you don't stay in doubt. It can also be reassuring if the result is negative.
If you're unsure whether itching could point to trichomonas for you, read more about trichomonas and mycoplasma, the lesser-known STIs. If you want to know which test fits your situation, our guide on which STI test you need and when helps.
A test that includes trichomonas alongside chlamydia and gonorrhoea can be handy if itching or irritation is your complaint. For that, see the chlamydia, gonorrhoea and trichomonas test.
Keep in mind that a window period applies after a possible risk contact. If you test too early, an infection may not yet be reliably visible, while the itching is already there. If you're unsure about the right moment, your GP can advise you.
What can you do yourself about genital itching?
With mild itching and no other complaints, you can often first see whether a few simple changes help, such as washing more gently and wearing cotton underwear. If the itching persists, worsens or other complaints appear, a test or a visit to your GP is wise.
A few things that can calm the skin:
- Wash with lukewarm water without perfumed soap
- Choose cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing
- Give the skin some rest after shaving
- Avoid scratching, however tempting, because it irritates the skin further
If you can't get a grip on the itching, or it doesn't feel like just a skin issue, a test or your GP can help you further.
Sources
Every blood test result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.
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