Genital Itching
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?
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 clean and dry, since moisture in the genital area can lead to infections. Use mild soap and rinse well.
• Wear loose, natural-fiber underwear and clothing. Change underwear at least every 24 hours.
• 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.
There are various over the counter medicines that can also help but in all cases, if the symptoms persist then consult a medical professional.
Other causes of itching
Crabs (Pubic Lice)
Crab lice are small, light brown, flat insects that cling to pubic hair, suck blood for nourishment, and fix their eggs (nits) to the pubic hairs. The blood sucking may cause little red sores and itching. Crab lice are almost always spread by close physical contact. They prefer the pubic hair and do not voluntarily leave the body.
Treatment
Permethrin should be applied to clean and cool skin. The patient should not take a hot bath or shower prior to treatment. This treatment should only be used under medical supervision.
Apply to infected and adjacent hairy areas
Nits should be removed with a fine toothed comb.
Sex partners should be treated concurrently.
Clothing and bed linen contaminated by the patient within the past 2 days should be washed and dried by machine (hot cycle) or dry cleaned.