Itchy Vulvar Symptoms: Causes and Concerns for Women

Q: Itchy Vulvar Symptoms: Causes and Concerns for Women

Dear Amy： Hello, the most likely cause of vulvar itching is a yeast infection, which should not be related to changes in your body after childbirth. <br>It may be associated with the frequent use of panty liners during your menstrual period, leading to a moist and non-breathable

Itching issues..?

Hello Dr.
Lu, I would like to ask you two questions.

(1) I often experience itching in my external genital area (not inside the vagina), especially at the junction of the pubic hair and skin, starting about one to two weeks after my menstrual cycle (which occurs approximately every 40 days) ends.
This itching lasts for about one to two weeks and then disappears.
This pattern has been occurring since the beginning of this year, after my second child was born, who is now just over a year old.
I would like to know if this condition could be due to changes in my body after having my second child and whether it is related to ovulation.
Should I seek medical attention? (Before having my second child, my menstrual cycles were irregular, sometimes occurring every 30 days, 40 days, or even once every two months.
However, after having my second child, I noticed that my cycles seem to occur more regularly, approximately every 40 days.)
(2) Is it normal for the ear temperature measured during ovulation to be a few degrees higher than the usual ear temperature?
Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions.

Amy, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/09/18

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Dear Amy: Hello, the most likely cause of vulvar itching is a yeast infection, which should not be related to changes in your body after childbirth.
It may be associated with the frequent use of panty liners during your menstrual period, leading to a moist and non-breathable environment in the vulvar area, allowing yeast to proliferate and cause itching.
Therefore, it can occur periodically.
It should not be difficult to treat.
You can use vaginal suppositories and ointments for about a week.
After ovulation, due to the effects of progesterone, your body temperature may rise by approximately 0.6 degrees.
Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Attending Physician, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2009/09/18

More Info

Itchy vulvar symptoms can be a source of discomfort and concern for many women, and understanding the underlying causes is crucial for effective management. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing recurrent itching in the vulvar area, particularly after your menstrual cycle, which has become more regular since the birth of your second child. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Causes of Itching After Menstruation: The itching you are experiencing could be attributed to several factors. Hormonal changes after childbirth can indeed affect your body, including your skin and mucous membranes. The fluctuation of estrogen and progesterone levels during your menstrual cycle can lead to changes in vaginal flora and pH levels, which might contribute to itching. Additionally, the presence of menstrual blood can create a moist environment that may promote the growth of yeast or bacteria, leading to irritation and itching.

Another possibility is that you may be experiencing contact dermatitis, which can occur due to sensitivity to soaps, laundry detergents, or hygiene products. If you have recently changed any products you use in that area, it might be worth considering.
Regarding your question about whether this is related to your ovulation cycle, some women do experience increased sensitivity or itching around ovulation due to hormonal fluctuations. However, if the itching is persistent and bothersome, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare provider. They may perform a physical examination and possibly recommend tests to rule out infections such as yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis, which are common causes of vulvar itching.

2. Temperature Changes During Ovulation: As for your second question about ear temperature during ovulation, it is indeed common for women to experience a slight increase in basal body temperature during ovulation. This increase is typically around 0.5 to 1 degree Fahrenheit (approximately 0.3 to 0.6 degrees Celsius) due to the rise in progesterone after ovulation. However, this increase may not be significant enough to be detected with a standard ear thermometer, as they can be influenced by various factors, including ambient temperature and the method of measurement.
In summary, the itching you are experiencing could be related to hormonal changes following childbirth, changes in your menstrual cycle, or external irritants. If the symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to seek medical advice for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, monitoring your basal body temperature can provide insights into your ovulation cycle, but it's important to use a consistent method for the most accurate readings.
If you have further concerns or if the itching continues, please do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options. Your health and comfort are paramount, and addressing these symptoms early can help prevent further complications.

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