Understanding why you get itchy at night
Itchy rash, bumps or irritation on the genital areas can cause discomfort and disrupt the sleep. There are a plethora of reasons why you may be experiencing nighttime itching in the genital area. Bacteria, yeast, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), dry skin, and irritation caused by chemicals in soaps can all be culprits of itching.
Itching can occur any time of day, but it may increase at night because of your body’s natural circadian rhythms. This can lead to a restless night’s sleep, which can negatively affect your physical and mental health over time. If you’ve been asking yourself why you’re so itchy down there at night, read on to discover the reasons.
Is it caused by bacterial infections?
Bacterial infections are one cause of itchy genitalia. Bacterial infections can result in a range of symptoms, including itching, redness, burning, and even painful urination. These symptoms can often worsen at night, making it difficult to sleep comfortably.
What are the symptoms of bacterial infections?
- Abnormal discharge
- Foul-smelling odor
- Burning during urination
- Redness or swelling
There are several ways to combat bacterial infections that can cause itching, including practicing safe sex, taking antibiotics, and practicing good personal hygiene. If you suspect you have an infection, especially an STD, see your doctor immediately.
What about yeast infections?
Another common cause of feminine itching is yeast infections. Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of carefully protected fungi in the vaginal area, which can cause discomfort and irritation. In addition to itching, yeast infections can cause thick, white discharge, odor, and redness of the vagina.
How do I treat yeast infections?
Over-the-counter antifungal creams and suppositories can help alleviate symptoms of a yeast infection. You can also try a natural approach and apply yogurt or coconut oil to the infected area. However, if your symptoms persist, you should still consult your physician.
Is it caused by dry skin?
The skin in the genital area is sensitive and can easily become irritated. Dryness and scaling are common symptoms of dry skin, which can lead to itching and discomfort. Certain body and laundry soaps can contribute to vaginal dryness, which can worsen symptoms.
What can I do for dryness?
- Avoid over-washing the vaginal area
- Use fragrance-free soaps and detergents
- Avoid douching and scented feminine products
- Use moisturizers for sensitive skin such as Vaseline or Aquaphor
If your symptoms persist, contact your gynecologist or primary care physician to determine the right course of treatment.
What about scabies?
Scabies is a contagious skin condition caused by mites that burrow into the skin. Symptoms of scabies include intense itching, especially at night, and a rash. It is highly contagious and can spread quite easily, making it important to treat it quickly and effectively.
How do I treat scabies?
Treatments for scabies include topical creams and lotions, oral medications and other treatments. If you suspect you or someone you know is suffering from a scabies infestation, it is important to consult a physician as soon as possible.
Is it caused by sexually transmitted diseases?
STDs can cause itching, redness, and pain in the genital area. Symptoms may worsen at nighttime, which can make it tough to get a good night’s sleep. It is essential to seek medical intervention if you experience any STD symptoms.
What are the symptoms of STDs?
- Bumps or sores
- Discharge
- Burning or pain
- Redness and itching
If you suspect you might have an STD, get tested immediately. Your doctor will recommend the right course of treatment after identifying the specific type of STD you have.
Can stress cause genital itching?
Stress isn’t necessarily a direct cause of genital itching, but it can disrupt your body’s natural balance and immune system, which might lead to an infection that causes itching. Stress can also trigger existing conditions like eczema, which can worsen itching sensations.
What can I do to relieve stress?
- Meditate or practice deep breathing exercises
- Get plenty of restful sleep
- Engage in regular exercise
- Try yoga or Tai chi
- Seek professional counseling if necessary
By relieving stress, you can aid in preventing the appearance of existing and potential new medical issues that may cause an itch down there.
How to get rid of the night-time itch?
Getting rid of nighttime itching is possible once the root cause has been diagnosed. To treat itching at night, we recommend purchasing over-the-counter creams or conducting preventative measures like maintaining good overall hygiene.
Additional tips that can help:
- Apply a cold compress
- Use an ice pack to soothe itching
- Try relaxation techniques to calm yourself at night
- Take a bath and soak for about 20 minutes in lukewarm water
Using these tips can assist in preventing nighttime itching and improve overall comfort levels in the genital region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some of the frequently asked questions and answers associated with the topic are listed below:
- Why is my vaginal itching only at night?
- Nighttime itching may occur because of body circadian rhythms, which can intensify itchiness at night.
- If I scratch my vagina in my sleep, can I catch an infection?
- Even though scratching will not cause an infection, it can break the skin making way for infections to enter.
- Should I see a doctor immediately if I suspect I have an STD?
- Yes, it is essential to get tested immediately to determine the right course of treatment.
- Can scabies spread through close contact?
- Yes, it is highly contagious and can spread through close contact.
- Can I use over-the-counter cream to treat vaginal itching?
- Yes, over-the-counter antifungal creams and suppositories can assist in alleviating symptoms of vaginal itching caused by a yeast infection.
Conclusion
Itching can be a challenging and uncomfortable issue, particularly in the genital region. Understanding the underlying cause of your vaginal itch can aid in determining the right course of treatment, improving your overall comfort and well-being. It is important to consult a doctor immediately when symptoms persist or worsen. Practice good hygiene, watch your diet, and maintain a healthy immune system to help prevent and dissipate discomforts caused by vaginal itching.
References:
- https://www.healthline.com/health/vaginal-itching-at-night
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/5-common-causes-of-itching-and-burning-conditions
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/scabies/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20377361
- https://www.healthline.com/health/vaginal-yeast-infection