Genital Itching Causes And Rash Treatment

What Causes Genital Itching? Genital itching can be a symptom of many conditions which may include vaginal infections in females or jock itch in males. In either sex, itching may be caused by skin irritation, sexually transmitted diseases, and allergies.

In many cases, genital itching that is caused by irritation will clear up on its own if the irritation is removed. Other causes of itching may require more intensive treatment. If you are concerned about genital itching that does not go away, talk to your doctor or another health care professional. How Can Genital Itching Be Avoided? Females should take the following steps to help avoid genital itching: After urination or bowel movements, wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from the anus getting into the vagina. Avoid chemical products such as vaginal douches or feminine hygiene sprays, which can upset the acidic balance of the vagina. Avoid scented feminine hygiene products (panty liners, pads, soaps). Males should take the following steps to help avoid genital itching: Wash the penis well, including the area under the foreskin in uncircumcised men. Keep the area dry, since moisture in the genital area can lead to infections. Cornstarch powders during the summer may be helpful. Both males and females should take the following steps to help avoid genital itching: Wear loose, natural-fiber underwear and clothing. Change underwear at least every 24 hours. Keep the genital area clean and dry. Use mild soap and rinse well. Use mild, unscented laundry detergents to wash your underwear. Dry off thoroughly after bathing and swimming. Avoid staying in wet clothing for long periods of time. Avoid unprotected sex, especially if you are worried that you or your partner might have an infection. Diagnosing a genital rash Before treating a genital rash, a doctor first needs to determine its cause. You can connect to a primary care doctor in your area using the Healthline FindCare tool. The diagnosis process can involve some or all of the following: A physical examination The doctor will look at the features of the rash, including any lesions or warts. Let them know about any unusual redness or discharge. They’ll also examine other areas of the skin that may be affected. For example, they may study the webs of your fingers to look for scabies. Swab testing Doctors may swab vaginal discharge and any discharge present around the penis, along with lesions. Skin scraping or biopsies The doctor may order a skin scrape or biopsy, where they scrape or remove part of a wart, part of a lesion, or skin cells. The tissue from the scrape or biopsy is examined under a microscope. The findings can potentially be used to diagnose conditions such as psoriasis, scabies, and fungal infections. Blood work Some causes of genital rashes, such as herpes and syphilis, may be detected through blood work. There are home diagnostic tests you can use to test for STIs, though they may not be as reliable as tests run by a doctor. If you do use a home diagnostic test and get a positive result, have a doctor double-check the results and get treated as soon as possible. Treatments for a genital rash The treatment needed for a genital rash depends on the underlying cause. Regardless of the cause, however, the itchiness of a rash can be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) creams such as hydrocortisone. A doctor may also prescribe you a cream to reduce the symptoms while treating the underlying condition. Some skin infections will heal without treatment as long as the affected area is kept clean and dry. Here are some other conditions and the treatments that a doctor may recommend: Vaginal yeast infections These can be treated with an OTC or prescription medication, such as oral antifungals. Syphilis Syphilis is treated with antibiotics. Genital warts These warts are treated with prescription medications. A doctor can also eliminate visible warts by freezing them with liquid nitrogen or removing them surgically. Genital herpes Genital herpes can’t yet be cured, but the condition can be managed with medications. Pubic and body lice Lice can be eliminated with a medicated wash, which is applied directly to the site of the infection, left on for a required amount of time, and washed away. To prevent reinfection, you should wash clothing and bedding in hot water. Scabies Scabies can be treated with medicated creams or lotions prescribed by a doctor. Allergic reactions Eliminating the allergen will allow the rash to clear up and prevent future outbreaks. Autoimmune disorders While there’s no cure for autoimmune disorders, certain medications — such as those that suppress the immune system — can help control symptoms or skin conditions caused by these disorders. Lichen planus occurring in autoimmune disorders This can be treated with OTC antihistamines or prescription medication skin creams, corticosteroid shots, or pills. Preventing genital rash Preventing a genital rash, particularly a reoccurring genital rash, will depend heavily on the cause of the rash itself. To prevent rashes caused by STIs, you can: Always use barrier methods that protect against STIs, such as condoms and dental dams. Take medications to manage preexisting conditions such as herpes. To prevent rashes from allergic reactions, you can: Take antihistamines when at increased risk. Avoid the allergens that trigger the reaction. Maintaining a balanced diet and lifestyle will keep you in the best shape you can be in, which may boost your immune system and help it fight off any infections that could cause genital rashes.