Causes of Vaginal Itching during Pregnancy

‍Cause 1: Bacterial vaginosis

Its is a type of vaginal inflammation caused by the overgrowth of bacteria naturally found in the vagina, which upsets the natural balance. BV is a result of an imbalance of “good” and “harmful” bacteria in a vagina. A change in the vaginal bacterial balance causes bacterial vaginosis.

Symptoms

• Thin, white, grey, or green discharge.
• Unpleasant odour.
• Vaginal itchiness.
• Burning while urinating.

See a doc for

• Swelling, itching, or soreness.
• Colour or consistency changes.
• Unpleasant odour and/or discharge.
• Some women find cold compresses helpful.

Cause 2: Increase in vaginal discharge

Vaginal discharge and cervical mucus  increase throughout pregnancy because of hormonal changes and the softening of the cervix and vaginal walls. Discharge protects your vagina from infection, but it can irritate the skin of the vulva.

‍Management:

• Bathe regularly and wear cotton panties.
• Change panties every few hours.
• Do not use any chemicals in that area.
• Add 1 tbspn to a glass of lukewarm water and wash the area.
• Don’t apply hair-removing cream or use blunt razors.
• Healthy vaginal discharge is usually thin, clear, or milky white and shouldn't smell bad.

‍Cause 3: Vaginal dryness

Hormonal changes may cause vaginal dryness to occur in some people during pregnancy. Redness, irritation, and pain during sex may also occur. Low progesterone may also cause vaginal dryness. Since this hormone is necessary for sustaining pregnancy, see a doc immediately

Management:

• Have a lot of water.
• Avoid chemical products.
• Apply coconut oil.
• Stress can also cause vaginal dryness. Invest in meditation and yoga.

‍Cause 4: Sensitivity to products

During pregnancy, the vagina becomes engorged with blood, and your skin may feel stretched and more sensitive than usual.

• Cosmetic and cleaning products.
• Bubble Bath
• Body Wash
• Soap

‍Management:

• Use gentle agents for washing your clothes.
• Do not immerse yourself in bubble baths.
• Use mild, oil-based soaps for bathing.
• Apply a cold compress to the vagina.
• Take a baking soda bath, mixing 1/4 to 2 cups of baking soda into a tub full of warm water.
• Mix baking soda and water to create a paste, and apply it to the itchy skin.
• Apply coconut oil to the itchy skin.

‍Cause 5: Urinary tract infection (UTI)

Uterine pressure on bladder can cause this.
Bacteria can also cause UTIs, such as group B strep bacteria (GBS). Around 1 in 4 pregnant women test positive for GBS. GBS in adults doesn’t usually show symptoms. Since the GBS bacteria can be harmful to a newborn, your doctor will test you for it during pregnancy.

Symptoms include:

• Frequent and urgent need to urinate
• Abdominal pain
• Vaginal itching and burning
• Blood in urine
• Pain during intercourse

‍Management:

• Stay hydrated. Have a lot of barley water, too.
• Sugar-free curd can also help. It contains antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties that help fight yeast infections. Mix two to three drops of honey with the fresh curd. Apply the mixture into the vagina.
• See a doctor immediately. Do not self-medicate.

‍Cause 6: Cholestasis of pregnancy or (ICP) or obstetric cholestasis

ICP temporarily lowers liver function in some pregnant women. This causes bile to build up in your liver and bloodstream.
Cholestasis of pregnancy causes extreme itchiness on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. The itching may start to affect the entire body, including the vaginal area. Rashes and redness don’t occur with this condition.

Risk Factors

• Have a family member with the condition.
• Had ICP before.
• Are pregnant with twins, triplets.
• Have a history of liver disease or hepatitis C.
• Have a history of liver damage.
• Have a genetic condition that affects bile production.

Management:

Serum bile acid test to confirm. Then:

• Anti-itch medicine
• Wear soft and loose-fitting clothing.
• Rest in a cool room.

If you have crossed Week 37, the doctor may also suggest getting the baby out if your symptoms are not lessening.

‍Cause 7: Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

STIs, such as genital herpes, HPV, and trichomoniasis, may all have vaginal itching as early symptoms.

Look for:

• Rash
• Burning sensation
• Warts
• Fever
• Vaginal discharge
• Flu-like symptoms

‍Management:

STDs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis can all be treated and cured with antibiotics that are safe to take during pregnancy. Viral STDs, including genital herpes, hepatitis B, and HIV cannot be cured.

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