Patient's question:
Hello doctor!My friend's daughter is 22 years old and has never had sexual activity. Last year, she discovered vulvar itching. After scratching, small cracks would appear on her labia minora and majora, but there would be no bleeding. The cracks would heal within a few days. However, this issue does not occur during her menstrual period. Could you please explain what this might be?
Thank you.
Doctor's answer:
Hello: Vulvar itching is a symptom that can be caused by various factors. Local causes include specific infections (such as fungal vaginitis, trichomoniasis, pubic lice, scabies, pinworms), chronic vulvar dystrophy, drug allergies or chemical irritation, poor hygiene habits, and skin diseases. Patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes, jaundice, leukemia, vitamin A deficiency, and vitamin B deficiency also frequently experience vulvar itching. Some patients have no obvious local or systemic causes, which may be related to psychological or mental factors. Those suffering from this condition should identify the underlying cause and treat accordingly.【Prescription】
1. Pay attention to menstrual hygiene. Change menstrual pads frequently during menstruation and clean them regularly.
2. Keep the vulva clean and dry. Avoid washing with hot water or using soap.
3. Avoid indiscriminate or excessive use of medications, scratching, or local friction.
4. Avoid alcohol and spicy foods. Do not eat seafood or take medications that may cause allergies.
5. Do not wear tight undergarments. Underwear should be loose, breathable, and preferably made of cotton.
6. If there are any local wounds or infections, use a 1:5000 potassium permanganate solution (add a small amount of potassium permanganate powder to warm water until it turns a light red, but do not make it too concentrated) for soaking. Do this twice daily for 20–30 minutes each time.
7. Seek medical examination to check for molds or trichomoniasis. If present, treat them promptly instead of using over-the-counter "itch relief" solutions.
8. Patients with persistent symptoms should undergo blood sugar testing.