Vaginal itching and discharge - adult and adolescent

Definition

Vaginal discharge refers to secretions from the vagina. The discharge may be:

Itching of the skin of the vagina and the surrounding area (vulva) may be present along with vaginal discharge. It can also occur on its own.

Alternative Names

Pruritus vulvae; Itching - vaginal area; Vulvar itching

Causes

Glands in the cervix and the walls of the vagina normally produce clear mucus. This is very common among women of childbearing age.

The following factors can increase the amount of normal vaginal discharge:

Different types of infections may cause itching or an abnormal discharge in the vagina. Abnormal discharge means abnormal color (brown, green), and odor. It is associated with itching or irritation.

These include:

Other causes of vaginal discharge and itching may be:

Less common causes include:

Home Care

Keep your genital area clean and dry when you have vaginitis. Make sure to seek help from health care provider for the best treatment.

Avoid douching. Many women feel cleaner when they douche, but it may actually worsen symptoms because it removes healthy bacteria that line the vagina. These bacteria help protect against infection.

Avoid current popular trends like vaginal steaming which may increase risk of vaginal infections.

Other tips are:

Allow more air to reach your genital area. You can do this by:

Girls and women should also:

Always practice safe sex. Use condoms to avoid catching or spreading infections.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your provider right away if:

Changes that could indicate a problem such as infection include:

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

Your provider will:

Tests that may be performed include:

Treatment depends on the cause of your symptoms.

References

Clutterbuck DJ. Sexually transmitted infections. In: Penman ID, Ralston SH, Strachan MWJ, Hobson RP, eds. Davidson's Principles and Practice of Medicine. 24th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 15.

Eckert LO, Lentz GM. Genital tract infections: vulva, vagina, cervix, toxic shock syndrome, endometritis, and salpingitis. In: Gershenson DM, Lentz GM, Valea FA, Lobo RA, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 23.

Seller RH, Symons AB. Vaginal discharge and itching. In: Seller RH, Symons AB, eds. Differential Diagnosis of Common Complaints. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 33.


Review Date: 8/23/2023
Reviewed By: LaQuita Martinez, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emory Johns Creek Hospital, Alpharetta, GA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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