Dear Pharmacist,
I’m always itchy around my girl parts. Do you have something that will stop the itch?
Vaginal itching occurs often in perimenopause and menopause due to decreasing estrogen levels. Estrogen keeps the vaginal walls thicker and less prone to the thinning that leads to itching, dryness or even tearing with intercourse.
Firstly, you want to be certain that the itchiness is caused by menopause and not something else like a yeast infection. See your doctor.
For mild itchiness, you may want to try an over-the -counter lubricant like Replens. This may increase the lubrication in your vaginal area enough to stop the itch.
For moderate or severe irritation and itchiness, your doctor may prescribe a topical estrogen cream. This will increase the thickness of the walls in the vagina, restore the moisture and can relieve the dryness that leads to the itchiness.
Other non-prescription options to help are wearing loose, cotton underwear, good personal hygiene, and using fragrance free products to clean the vaginal area.
Readers! Send your questions to deborah@vergowoman.com. They will be answered by a female pharmacist with over thirty years of clinical pharmacy experience.
