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Treatment, Symptoms, Causes, and More

Jock Itch: Treatment, Symptoms, Causes, and More

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Medically reviewed by Kevin Martinez, M. D. — By Rachel Nall, MSN, CRNA — Updated on February 18, 2023

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Jock itch is a fungal infection that can cause redness and itching of the groin or inner thighs. Home remedies and prescription medications can help ease symptoms and prevent the infection from spreading.

Tinea cruris, most commonly known as jock itch, is a fungal infection of the skin.

It belongs to a group of fungal skin infections called tinea. As in other tinea infections, mold-like fungi known as dermatophytes cause jock itch. These microscopic fungi live on your skin, hair, and nails.

They’re typically harmless, but they can multiply quickly and cause infections when they’re allowed to thrive in warm, moist areas. That’s why jock itch usually develops in the skin around the groin, inner thighs, and buttocks.

Jock itch is most common in people assigned male at birth, particularly adolescents. The infection causes a rash that often itches or burns. On light skin, the affected areas can also appear red, flaky, or scaly. On darker skin, the rash might appear gray or brown.

Though jock itch can be bothersome, it’s typically a mild infection. Treating it quickly will minimize symptoms and keep it from spreading.

Most people find relief simply by applying topical antifungal medications and by keeping the affected area clean and dry.

Common symptoms of jock itch in the affected area include:

  • redness
  • persistent itching
  • burning sensation
  • flaking, peeling, or cracking skin
  • rash that gets worse with exercise or activity
  • changes in skin color
  • rash that doesn’t improve, worsens, or spreads after using OTC hydrocortisone (anti-itch) cream

Jock itch typically affects the groin and inner thighs. It may spread to the abdomen and buttocks, but it usually doesn’t develop on the scrotum.

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A group of fungi called dermatophytes cause jock itch. These fungi naturally live on your skin and typically don’t cause problems. However, when you remain in sweat-soaked clothes after exercising, prolonged exposure to moisture can allow the fungi to multiply quickly.

When you have an overgrowth of dermatophytes in your groin area, it causes the infection known as jock itch.

The fungus that causes jock itch is highly contagious. You may get the fungal infection through close personal contact with a person who has jock itch or through contact with that person’s unwashed clothing.

Risk factors for jock itch

If the following factors apply to you, you might have a higher risk of jock itch:

  • You’re male.
  • You’re a teenager.
  • You have overweight or live with obesity, which increases how many skin folds you have. The fungi that cause jock itch thrive in sweaty skin folds.
  • You have a tendency to sweat, which increases the moisture of the skin and encourages dermatophytes to multiply.
  • Your immune system doesn’t function as it should due to an underlying health condition or treatment for a condition. People who are immunocompromised have a higher risk of fungal infections like jock itch than those whose immune systems work at full capacity.
  • You wear a lot of tight clothes.
  • You live with diabetes, which can increase your risk for fungal skin infections.

Do only athletes get jock itch?

The term “jock itch” may give the impression that only athletes develop the infection, but it can happen to anyone. Those who have overweight are more likely to experience jock itch because the fungus can thrive in folds of skin, which are prone to sweating.

As a preventive measure, it’s important to wash with soap and water in your groin and armpit areas daily. Prolonged exposure to moisture and friction from clothes can also trigger jock itch.

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Your doctor will likely be able to diagnose jock itch by performing a physical exam and inspecting the affected area of skin.

In some cases, your doctor may take some scrapings of skin cells from the area to help diagnose the condition. This may also help rule out other skin disorders, such as psoriasis.

There are several ways to reduce your risk for jock itch, including:

  • Practice good hygiene. Regular hand washing can greatly reduce your risk of getting this infection from someone else. It’s also important to keep your skin clean and dry, especially the area around your groin.
  • Wash the area regularly with soap, and dry the area thoroughly after bathing. Applying baby powder around your groin can also be helpful for preventing excess moisture.
  • Avoid tight-fitting clothing. Tight clothes can rub or chafe your skin, which can make you more susceptible to jock itch. You may want to try wearing boxer shorts instead of boxer briefs.
  • Wear loose clothing in hot or humid weather. Loose clothing can prevent sweating and the warm, moist environment in which fungus thrives. Make sure you wash any workout clothes or athletic supporters after each use.
  • If you have athlete’s foot, seek treatment quickly. The same fungi that cause jock itch can also cause athlete’s foot, and vice versa. You can avoid spreading it to your groin area by making sure you don’t use the same towel on both your feet and your groin.

If your symptoms don’t improve after 2 weeks of home treatments, you should make an appointment to see your doctor. You may have developed a secondary infection that needs prompt treatment.

If you don’t already have a dermatologist, you can browse doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool.

Jock itch is a contagious fungal skin infection that develops in skin folds like the armpits and buttocks.

The fungi that cause it, called dermatophytes, already live on your skin. But they can cause a skin infection if you wear sweat-soaked clothes for too long after physical exertion.

It’s most common in males, teens, and folks who have overweight, as well as those with less active immune systems or diabetes.

The infection is usually mild, and you can treat it at home by applying OTC creams, regularly cleaning the area, and maintaining good hygiene.

If symptoms don’t improve after 2 weeks of home remedies, consult a healthcare professional. A doctor may prescribe stronger medications for severe or stubborn jock itch.

Last medically reviewed on November 16, 2021

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

  • Ely JW, et. al. (2014). Diagnosis and management of tinea infections.
    aafp.org/afp/2014/1115/p702.html
  • Jock itch. (2018).
    kidshealth.org/en/teens/jock-itch.html
  • Lau M, et al. (2020). Opportunistic invasive fungal disease in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus from Southern China: Clinical features and associated factors.
    ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7232281/
  • Pippin MM, et al. (2021). Tinea cruris.
    ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554602/
  • Ringworm risk & prevention. (2021).
    cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/ringworm/risk-prevention.html
  • Tinea infections (ringworm, athlete’s foot, jock itch). (2015).
    healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/skin/Pages/Tinea-Infections-Ringworm-Athletes-Foot-Jock-Itch.aspx

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Feb 18, 2023

Written By

Rachel Nall, MSN, CRNA

Edited By

Adam Felman

Copy Edited By

Chris Doka

Nov 16, 2021

Medically Reviewed By

Kevin Martinez, MD

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Medically reviewed by Kevin Martinez, M.D. — By Rachel Nall, MSN, CRNA — Updated on February 18, 2023

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Vaginal and groin irritation and infection

Irritation of the vulva and vagina is quite common and most women will experience it at least once in their lives.

There is delicate skin around the groin, vulva and inside the vagina, making these areas vulnerable to a wide range of conditions that can cause irritation. (Vulva is the general name given to the external parts of the female genitals.)

What causes vulva and vagina irritation?

Many things can cause irritation including:

  • an imbalance of the bacteria and microorganisms that normally live inside the vagina
  • lubricants and spermicides and latex products used during sex, such as condoms
  • Bartholin’s cysts
  • hormonal changes, such as after having a baby or during menopause
  • a skin condition such as dermatitis or eczema
  • excess washing or vaginal douching (washing out the vagina)
  • allergy or a reaction to hygiene products such as soaps, shower gels, shampoos, or hygiene sprays
  • disinfectants, antiseptics and ointments
  • washing powders or liquids
  • perfumed toilet paper
  • sanitary pads or tampons, condoms
  • sweating
  • an ingrown hair
  • some medications
  • discharge from the vagina
  • removing pubic hair
  • swimming in a chlorine pool
  • wearing new underwear, especially if it is not made of cotton
  • very rarely, vulval cancer

Groin irritation can also be due to a build-up of sweat from not washing and drying your groin properly, or from over-washing or scrubbing the area.

What causes a vaginal infection?

As well as the causes listed above, irritation may also be a result of an infection.

Yeast infections: candidiasis or thrush is a common cause of itching, redness, swelling and a cottage cheese-like discharge.

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection that causes itchiness and a green, smelly discharge.

Bacterial vaginosis is a bacterial infection of the vagina. It causes a thin, grey discharge and a strong fishy smell.

Genital herpes is caused by a virus. It causes painful ulcers, a rash, flu-like symptoms and a discharge from the vagina.

If you have an unusual vaginal discharge, it might be due to an infection.

What causes groin infections?

Groin infections can be caused by a fungus. A fungal infection of the groin can often be irritating to the skin and may be very painful or itchy. Fungal infections may be passed on from person to person, but this is not always the case.

Fungi like moist, warm places to infect, such as folds of skin. To prevent fungal infections the area should be kept clean and dry. It is a good idea to avoid sharing towels, bedding or clothes.

How can I look after myself?

Groin or vaginal irritation

To soothe pain in the groin, try a cool compress or ice pack (a bag of frozen peas works well) wrapped in a cloth, not placed directly against the skin. Ice packs can be re-applied every 2 to 3 hours but do not leave them on the skin for more than 20 minutes at a time. If you are in pain, see a pharmacist or doctor for advice on medicines you can take.

Washing: Wash only with water or salt water and do not douche (wash inside the vagina). Avoid using perfumed soaps, shower gels or deodorants around the area, as this can cause further irritation.

Clothing: Wear loose fitting, cotton underpants and wash all underwear in unscented soap and rinse well. Avoid G-strings, pantyhose and tight jeans.

Creams: A pharmacist or doctor can advise on the best way to treat the irritation. There are several soothing creams and ointments available. Do not apply any creams or lotions you might already have without discussing your problem with a pharmacist first.

Other tips:

  • Reduce swimming in chlorine, and remove swimwear immediately afterwards.
  • Use 100% cotton pads or tampons. As menstrual blood may irritate the area, consider using tampons.
  • Lean forward when urinating to avoid burning.

Groin or vaginal infection

Washing tips: Clean the area in warm (not hot) water at least twice a day. Pat dry carefully and then apply any cream you have been given by your doctor or pharmacist.

Avoid using perfumed soaps, shower gels or deodorants around the area, as this can cause further irritation. Do not douche. Keep the area dry and free from sweat to make it difficult for the fungus to survive.

Wash your hands before and after cleaning to prevent the spread of the infection. Also, do not share your face cloth or towel with others.

Creams: If you are using intravaginal creams or pessaries, you’ll need to use menstrual pads rather than tampons.

Clothing: Change underwear daily and wear loose-fitting pants.

Pain relief: If you are in pain, get advice on medicines you can take.

Consider others

If you have a sexually transmitted infection, tell your sexual partner(s) so they can also be examined and treated if necessary. Avoid any sexual contact with others until the infection has cleared.

If you are concerned about your vaginal irritation, please consult your doctor.

CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the sexual health and lower body Symptom Checker and find out if you need to seek medical help.

Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content.

Fungus in the intimate area: diseases, treatment, preparations

Where can I buy?

Encyclopedia

Fungus

Mycoses is the general name for all fungal diseases. Fungi pathogenic for humans can affect various organs and systems, including the intimate area in men and women 1 .

The author of the article

Molchanov Oleg Leonidovich

Gynecologist, reproductive specialist, doctor of medical sciences.

Audio version of the page:

Diseases in the intimate zone caused by fungi

The term “intimate zone” includes the external genital organs, including the skin of the pubis and perineum, as well as the vagina (which in anatomy is referred to as the internal genital organs). In men, this is the groin area and external genitalia.

Vaginal candidiasis

A common fungal infection of the intimate area is vaginal candidiasis (or “thrush”) caused by fungi of the genus Candida. For active life, yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida require glycogen, which is rich in cells of the vaginal mucosa. Mushrooms use this polysaccharide as the main energy resource for growth and subsequent division. Vaginal candidiasis can spread to the vulva (external genitalia), then the disease is called vulvovaginal candidiasis 2 .

Epidermophytosis groin

Another type of mycosis in the intimate area is athlete’s groin.

The disease is caused by dermatophyte fungi (Epidermophyton, Microsporum, Trichophyton species). The most favorable environment for their habitat and reproduction is the surface layer of the skin. In the area of ​​the external genitalia, dermatophytes infect the skin of the inguinal region 3 .

It should be noted that often a fungal infection in the intimate area is caused by a combination of these types of fungi (Candida and dermatophytes), which sometimes makes it difficult to diagnose and choose the right drug for treatment 4 .

How to treat the fungus in the intimate area, see a short video of a dermatovenereologist, professor, doctor of medical sciences, Tamrazova Olga Borisovna

Causes of fungal diseases

Fungi that can cause various diseases in humans are divided into 2 groups:

Opportunistic pathogens quantity, however, under adverse conditions in the body (for example, with hormonal disorders, taking antibiotics, diabetes mellitus, immunodeficiency states), their active growth and reproduction is observed, which leads to the development of the disease 5 .

Pathogens

Absolute pathogens (such as the causative agents of athlete’s groin – dermatophytes) are not normally present in humans, and after the infection process they invade healthy cells of the body and cause the development of the disease 6 .

Infection can occur:

  • Direct route (from a sick person carrying infection)
  • Indirectly (through objects)
  • When scratching itchy areas of the skin and transferring fungi to other parts of the body

Risk factors for the development of a fungal infection

In the development of a fungal disease, including in the intimate area, conditions associated with the suppression of general and local immunity play a significant role. Normally, immune mechanisms inhibit the growth of opportunistic flora and prevent the introduction of pathogens into healthy human cells. With various immune disorders, pathogens begin to actively multiply.

Factors that can provoke the growth and reproduction of fungi:

  • Type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus
  • Hormonal imbalance in the body
  • Taking antibiotics that disrupt local microflora and reduce the number of “beneficial” microorganisms
  • Stress, hypothermia, prolonged fatigue and a number of others
  • HIV and other immunodeficiency conditions

Diagnosis of fungal diseases of the intimate area

Diagnosis of fungal infections of the genital area should include several steps:

  • Analysis of complaints and symptoms, examination by a gynecologist.
  • Laboratory examination of vaginal swabs, perineal skin smears to identify the causative agent of the disease. In difficult cases of diagnosis, a biopsy of the affected skin area is sometimes performed, followed by a histological examination.
  • If necessary, additional diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis (prescribed by a doctor). For example, if you suspect inguinal epidermophytosis, the doctor may prescribe Wood’s lamp examination for differential diagnosis with other skin diseases.

It is possible to suspect this or that fungal disease in the intimate zone, knowing its characteristic manifestations.

Symptoms of vulvovaginal candidiasis

Pain during intercourse

Discomfort, pain when urinating 7

Symptoms of jock itch

brown tint) colors with rounded outlines and small areas of peeling

Itching and various discomforts in the area of ​​rashes

Tendency to “merge” foci of rash with their transition to the skin of the buttocks, thighs, abdomen

“Weeping” of the skin 8

Complications of fungal diseases of the intimate area

The main complications of vulvovaginal candidiasis are:

  • Ascending infection of the pelvic organs: uterus, fallopian tubes
  • Termination of pregnancy, premature birth
  • Involvement of the urinary system in the pathological process (lesion of the bladder, kidneys)
  • The transition of the disease to a chronic form, the acquisition of resistance of the pathogen to treatment

The main complications of epidermophytosis groin are:

  • Accession of a secondary bacterial infection
  • In chronic course, thickening of the skin, violation of its pigmentation is possible

Treatment of fungal diseases of the intimate zone

Therapy of all fungal diseases, including candidiasis and epidermophytosis, is based on the destruction (eradication) of a certain type of fungus. The complete destruction of harmful fungal species or a decrease in the number of opportunistic pathogens to normal values ​​leads to the disappearance of the symptoms of the disease and is recorded as a cure.

All antifungal drugs are usually divided into several classes according to their chemical structure. Currently, the most widely used class of azoles (imidazoles: sertaconazole, ketoconazole, miconazole and triazoles: fluconazole, itraconazole).

The mechanism of action of these drugs is associated with a violation of the integrity of the cell wall of the fungus and the main processes of its vital activity, after which the growth and reproduction of the fungal cell stops (fungistatic effect) or its death (fungicidal effect) 9 .

Sertaconazole (Zalain preparations

® ) for the treatment of fungal infections in the intimate area

Today, the formation of fungal resistance to antifungal (including azole) drugs remains a serious problem. In order to solve this problem, Zalain ® was created based on sertaconazole. The structure of the drug includes derivatives of imidazole and benzothiophene. Thanks to benzothiophene, it becomes difficult for fungi to develop resistance to the action of this drug.

The unique chemical structure of Zalain ® preparations allows them to have a triple effect on fungi: help stop the growth and reproduction of fungal cells, in therapeutic concentrations the ability to cause the death of fungi, help prevent the transition of the fungus from an inactive state to a potentially pathogenic one (only for Candida fungi ) 10.11 .

Zalain ® is available in the form of vaginal suppositories and cream. The drug has a wide spectrum of action against various types of fungi, including Candida (albicans and non-albicans) and dermatophytes. Thus, topical application of the drug is convenient for any fungal infections in the intimate area.

Zalain ® Suppositories

For the treatment of an acute episode of vaginal candidiasis, a Zalain ® suppository is used once (1 suppository is inserted deep into the vagina) 13 .

The drug Zalain ® based on sertaconazole dissolves well in lipid (fat) cell structures, due to which it remains in the vaginal mucosa for a long time (7 days) in therapeutic concentration, having a triple mechanism of action on fungi of the genus Candida: stops growth and reproduction of fungi, contributes to their death and prevents the transition of fungi into a pathogenic form.

Only 1 suppository per course

Local effect of the drug

Absorption of sertaconazole into the bloodstream does not occur 13

Can be used during pregnancy and lactation*

*if the benefits outweigh the risks

9 0002 Where to buy Zalain ® Candles

Instruction

Instruction

Zalain ® Cream for the treatment of athlete’s groin in the intimate area

Cream Zalain ® based on sertaconazole

If the disease spreads to the external genital organs or in case of athlete’s groin, Zalain cream can be used ® (applied in an even thin layer on the affected skin areas 1-2 times a day). According to scientific evidence, sertaconazole has been shown to be highly active in studies as sertaconazole nitrate 2% cream for fungal skin infections 12 .

In fungal infections of the skin, symptomatic treatment is also important to alleviate the condition and prevent the development of a secondary infection.

Has a triple effect: antifungal, antipruritic, anti-inflammatory

Used 1-2 times a day

Where to buy Zalain ® Cream for the treatment of athlete’s groin in the intimate area

or

Find your nearest pharmacy

Prevention of the occurrence of fungal diseases of the intimate zone

Prevention of fungal infection is currently of great medical importance. This is due to an increase in the incidence of mycoses, the acquisition of resistance to therapy by fungi, an increase in the number of cases of diabetes and other diseases associated with a decrease in immunity, the problem of the irrational use of antibiotics, which disrupts the microflora.

Preventive measures include:

Maintaining/boosting immunity

Treatment of chronic diseases

Avoidance of casual sex

Avoidance of visiting public places with a potential risk of fungal infection

Prevention of relapse of the inguinal epidermis mofitia is the fight against excessive sweating

Compliance with the rules of intimate hygiene, which includes, first of all, the right choice of means for intimate hygiene.

There are a number of safe and beneficial ingredients that can be recommended for daily use. For example, Zalagel ® Intim with tea tree oil in the composition, which has an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, softening and moisturizing effect. This component helps protect against infections that may occur while taking contraceptives, antibiotics, during menstruation, pregnancy, after childbirth, with vaginal dryness 13.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can athlete’s groin be considered a sexually transmitted infection? How can she get infected?

Answer: Fungal infections in the intimate area, including athlete’s groin, do not belong to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), however, this does not exclude the possibility of infection of athlete’s groin through close bodily contact (including sexual intercourse). act). Infection can occur when wearing the clothes of a sick person, sharing towels with him, as well as in public places (bath, sauna).

How long does the treatment of athlete’s groin last?

Answer: The duration of treatment is determined by the doctor during an in-person consultation, based on the severity and duration of the disease, the chosen method of treatment. The standard duration of treatment with Zalain ® cream, for example, is 2 to 4 weeks 15 .

Can Zalain

® suppositories and cream be used during pregnancy?

Answer: Only a specialist who determines the benefits for the mother and potential risks for the fetus makes the appointment for pregnant women.

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  2. -5. PMID: 1951573.
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  7. Belousova TA Inguinal dermatophytosis: etiology, clinic, modern possibilities of therapy. RMZH No. 23 dated 10/10/2008.
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  9. Khaldin A.A., Sergeev V.Yu. Izyumova I.M. Modern ideas about inguinal dermatophytosis: etiology, epidemiology, clinic and effective therapy. Russian journal leather and veins. bol.– 2005.–№ 5.
  10. Khashukoeva A.Z., Safonina M.S., Andreasyan G.O., Myasoutova A.I., Overko A.V. “Therapeutic approaches in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis”. Medical advice. 2020;(13):138–146. doi: 10.21518/2079-701X-2020-13-138-146.
  11. Torres J, Márquez M, Camps F. Sertaconazole in the treatment of mycoses: from dermatology to gynecology. Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2000 Dec;71 Suppl 1:S3-20. doi: 10.1016/s0020-7292(00)00349-0. PMID: 11118560.
  12. Croxtall JD, Plosker GL. Sertaconazole: A review of its use in the management of superficial mycoses in dermatology and gynaecology. drugs 2009; 69(3): 339–59.
  13. According to the official instructions for use of the medicinal product Zalain®. (State Register of Medicines https://grls.rosminzdrav.ru/Grls_View_v2.aspx?routingGuid=3bd5386b-0075-434d-a6ef-74ab056650ae).
  14. Instruction leaflet Zalagel-Intim®.
  15. According to the instructions for medical use of the drug Zalain® Suppositories. Reg. Number: ПN015678/01, ЛС-000021.
  16. According to the instructions for medical use of the drug Zalain cream reg. No.: P N015678.

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Itching and burning in an intimate place: causes, treatment, preparations

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Diseases of the intimate zone

The appearance of itching and burning in an intimate place in women may indicate both an infectious lesion of the genital organs, and another reaction of the body, for example, to allergens, associated with non-gynecological diseases.

The author of the article

Molchanov Oleg Leonidovich

Gynecologist, reproductive specialist, doctor of medical sciences.

Audio version of the page:

Itching and burning – a reason to see a doctor

Itching and burning in an intimate place are a sign and indicator of the development of some disease in the body. Therefore, when such symptoms appear, you should definitely consult a doctor. These discomforts reduce a woman’s quality of life and can lead to serious complications.

Causes of itching and burning in an intimate place

Conventionally, the causes of itching and burning in the genital area can be divided into 2 groups:

  1. Non-gynecological
  2. Gynecological

Non-gynecological causes

Non-gynecological causes are usually associated with 1-5 :

  1. Allergic reaction to hygiene products, synthetic fabrics, lubricants
  2. Non-compliance with the rules of intimate hygiene . When washing, the movement of the hand should go strictly from the pubis to the anus
  3. Emotional shock – neurosis, stress
  4. Taking certain medications – antibiotics, cytostatics (anticancer drugs), hormonal drugs
  5. Chronic diseases – diabetes mellitus, thyroid disease
  6. Injuries of the external genital organs – tears during childbirth, injury from uncomfortable, tight underwear
  7. The presence of helminthiases – human parasitic diseases caused by various representatives of lower worms

Gynecological causes

Often the cause of itching and burning in the intimate area are various diseases of the genital area. The most common infectious and inflammatory diseases of the vagina (vaginitis) and external genital organs (vulvitis). Also, these symptoms can occur when the balance of the vaginal microflora and the external genital organs (vulva) is disturbed, hormonal imbalance 1-5 .

Infectious diseases

Itching and burning can be caused by sexually transmitted infections such as: trichomoniasis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, etc. However, such infections are usually accompanied by unusual discharge that has a yellow or greenish tint, as well as an unpleasant purulent odor .

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (thrush) 6 is also referred to as infectious lesions of the vulva and vagina. The causative agents of thrush are yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida – natural inhabitants of the vaginal microflora. When immune disorders, stresses and other adverse factors occur, fungi begin to multiply actively and thereby cause disease.

Vulvovaginal candidiasis, in addition to itching and burning, has the following characteristic features:

Abundant or moderate vaginal discharge similar to cottage cheese

Discomfort in the vulva

Possible pain during urination

Possible pain during intercourse

In recent years, combinations of vaginal candidiasis with others diseases of the vagina, such as bacterial vaginosis. Then, in the results of the analyzes, several pathogens that caused itching and burning will be detected at once 6 .

Violation of the vaginal microflora

If the vaginal microflora is disturbed, there is a significant decrease in the number of “beneficial” bacteria – lactobacilli. Their place can be taken by gardnerella bacteria, the increase in the number of which contributes to the development of the disease – bacterial vaginosis. This disease can be accompanied not only by itching and burning in an intimate place, but also by a fishy smell, and copious or moderate grayish-white discharge from the vagina.

Hormonal imbalance

Hormonal imbalance, namely deficiency of female sex hormones (estrogens), may occur:

  • At menopause or as a result of premature ovarian failure
  • After ovarian and uterine surgery
  • In the absence of menstruation due to active sports or an exhausting diet

Such hormonal disruptions often lead to itching and burning. However, these symptoms can also be combined with other signs of estrogen deficiency: sweating, hot flashes, frequent mood swings 7 .

Precancerous diseases of the vagina and vulva

Changes in the superficial cells of the vagina that occur in precancerous conditions can also provoke itching and burning in the genital area.

Diagnosis of the causes of itching and burning in the intimate area

Since there can be many causes of itching and burning in the genital area, it is imperative to consult a gynecologist. The doctor will analyze the patient’s complaints, accompanying symptoms and prescribe the necessary laboratory tests.

The standard diagnostic algorithm includes:

Examination on a gynecological chair

The doctor will be able to assess the manifestations of the disease and identify additional symptoms. For example: unhealthy vaginal discharge, redness, swelling, bad smell and others.

Collection of vaginal discharge for laboratory analysis

Microscopic examination, settlement of microorganisms from a vaginal swab on special media to determine the type of pathogen and its sensitivity to drugs.

Colposcopy

Examination of the vagina and external genitalia (vulvoscopy) using a special tool – a colposcope.

Biopsy and histological examination

Examination of altered areas of the mucous membranes of the vagina to determine precancerous conditions.

Visit to an endocrinologist

Analysis of hormone levels and detection of endocrine diseases.

Treatment of itching and burning in the intimate area

Various gynecological diseases may cause itching and burning in the vulva. Therefore, when these symptoms appear, a woman needs to contact a gynecologist who will conduct an examination, establish a diagnosis of the disease and prescribe therapy.

The main goal of medical care is to treat a gynecological disease that is accompanied by itching and burning!

The gynecologist selects medicines individually, based on the examination data and the results of laboratory research methods.

For example, when a patient is diagnosed with vaginal candidiasis (thrush), the doctor prescribes antifungal drugs , which have a detrimental effect on various subspecies of the Candida genus that caused this disease.

If sexually transmitted pathogens are detected in laboratory tests, use antibacterial drugs .

The period of menopause, accompanied by a change in the level of sex hormones (estrogens), patients are worried about itching and burning, in such cases the gynecologist prescribes hormonal preparations .

The treatment regimen for bacterial vaginosis includes antiseptic preparations .

Fungal infections are the most common cause of itching and burning in the intimate area.

Consider the action of a modern antifungal drug – sertaconazole.

Zalain

® – antifungal drugs with the active substance sertaconazole

Sertaconazole is a derivative of two antimicrobial molecules – imidazole and benzothiophene. Thanks to this chemical structure, the drug is able to have a triple effect on fungi: help block their growth and reproduction, kill fungi, and prevent the transition of fungi from a passive to a pathogenic form (only for Candida fungi) 8 .

Sertaconazole has a wide spectrum of activity, is active against most subspecies of fungi of the genus Candida. Also, the drug has a pronounced antifungal effect compared to other antimycotics 9 . Sertaconazole is active against bacteria: staphylococci and streptococci 10 .

The broad spectrum of activity and triple antifungal effect of sertaconazole help to reduce the risk of recurrent fungal infections.

Preparations based on sertaconazole have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory 11 and antipruritic 12 actions. Thanks to this triple effect, sertaconazole-based products (candles and Zalain ® cream) help eliminate itching and burning.

The drug has shown a high degree of effectiveness in the local treatment of thrush in the form of vaginal suppositories 13 . With the spread of a fungal infection on the skin of the external genital organs, a 2% cream based on sertaconazole 13 demonstrated its activity.

About the use of sertaconazole for the treatment of thrush, see a short video by Professor, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Shikh Evgenia Valerievna.

Contents

Causes

Diagnostics

Treatment

Preparations

0% read

Zalain ® Suppositories

For the treatment of vaginal candidiasis, it is enough to insert 1 Zalain 9 suppository into the vagina once0009® . The use of 1 vaginal suppository is explained by the fact that sertaconazole has a high lipophilicity – it dissolves well in lipid (fat) cell structures. Due to this, the drug remains in the vaginal mucosa for a long time (7 days) at a therapeutic concentration, having a triple mechanism of action on Candida fungi.

Only 1 suppository per course

Local effect of the drug

Absorption of sertaconazole into the bloodstream does not occur 13

May be used during pregnancy and lactation*

*as prescribed by a doctor if the benefits outweigh the risks

Where to buy Zalain ® Suppositories

Instruction

Instruction

Cream Zalain ®

Cream Zalain ® is recommended for use in lesions of the external genital organs to reduce the severity of itching, burning and other discomfort in the area of ​​the large and small labia. Apply the product in a thin layer 2 times a day. The duration of treatment depends on the type of pathogen and the severity of the disease.

The advantages of these drugs can be considered:

  • simplicity and ease of use
  • antifungal and triple effect

    • Has a triple effect: antifungal, antipruritic, anti-inflammatory

    Applied 1-2 times a day

    0009 ®

    or

    Find your nearest pharmacy

    Prevention of symptoms of itching and burning in the vagina

    The occurrence of unpleasant symptoms is a reason to see a doctor. Self-diagnosis and self-medication can lead to serious health complications.

    To reduce the risk of developing diseases of the genital area, accompanied by itching and burning of the genital organs, it is necessary to take preventive measures.

    Maintain a healthy lifestyle

    Avoid promiscuous sex

    Practice daily intimate hygiene

    Use barrier methods of contraception

    Use specialized products for intimate areas

    Do not use bar soap for hygiene 9 0003

    Do not douche frequently

    Answers to questions

    Can intimate hygiene gels help relieve itching and burning in the genital area?

    Answer: Intimate hygiene gels are cosmetic products that are used for gentle cleansing of the delicate area. At the same time, some cosmetic products may contain components that help reduce itching. For example, tea tree oil, which is part of Zalagel ® Intim, helps reduce these symptoms. However, they do not treat the cause of itching and burning.

    Is it possible to eliminate itching and burning in the vagina on my own?

    Answer: Self-treatment is not allowed, because the process can move to other organs of the small pelvis. Complications may occur, as well as the transition of the disease to the chronic stage.

    Is it necessary to examine the sexual partner in case of itching and burning?

    Answer: If there are suspicions of sexually transmitted infections, the partner must be examined.

    Is vaginal candidiasis (thrush) sexually transmitted?

    Answer: Vaginal candidiasis is not officially classified as a sexually transmitted infection.

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    Sources

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