What's wrong with vulvar itching during menstruation?

Vulvar itching during menstruation may be related to sanitary napkin allergies, local moisture irritation, vaginitis, vulvar eczema, changes in hormone levels and other factors. It can be relieved by changing sanitary products, keeping it dry and clean, and taking medication.

1. Allergy to sanitary napkins

Some women are allergic to the material of sanitary napkins or the added fragrances, which may cause redness, swelling and itching of the vulva skin after contact with them. It is recommended to choose cotton sanitary napkins without fluorescent agents and fragrance, or use alternatives such as menstrual cups. If an obvious allergic reaction occurs, you can use loratadine tablets or topical mometasone furoate cream as directed by your doctor to relieve symptoms.

2. Local moisture irritation

Long-term use of sanitary napkins during menstruation can lead to poor perineal ventilation, and the moist environment can easily breed bacteria and irritate the skin. It is necessary to change sanitary napkins every 2-3 hours, wipe from front to back after defecation, and wear pure cotton breathable underwear. You can sleep naked at night or use a maternity pad to reduce the stuffiness.

3. Vaginitis

Changes in vaginal pH with menstrual blood may induce bacterial vaginosis or vulvovaginal candidiasis, which manifests as itching and tofu-like leucorrhea. It is necessary to seek medical attention for routine examination of leucorrhea. After diagnosis, clotrimazole vaginal tablets or metronidazole suppositories can be used, and sexual intercourse during menstruation should be avoided.

4. Vulvar eczema

Decreased immunity during menstruation may aggravate chronic eczema, causing papules, oozing, and severe itching. It is necessary to keep the affected area dry, avoid scratching, use hydrocortisone butyrate cream combined with oral ebastine tablets as directed by the doctor, and avoid eating spicy and irritating foods.

5. Fluctuations in hormone levels

The drop in estrogen before menstruation can cause the vaginal mucosa to become dry and fragile. Symptoms often resolve on their own after menstruation. You can supplement vitamin E soft capsules in an appropriate amount, clean the vulva with warm water every day, and avoid excessive cleaning with alkaline lotions.

Pay special attention to perineal care during menstruation, wash it with warm water 1-2 times a day, and avoid bathing in baths and public swimming pools. Choose loose-fitting clothing to reduce stress from sitting for long periods of time. If the itching persists or is accompanied by symptoms such as abnormal discharge and ulcers, you should promptly go to a gynecologist to check for trichomonas vaginitis, diabetes and other potential diseases. You can add probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt and cranberries to your daily routine to maintain the balance of vaginal microecology.