Genital itching can happen to anybody and in either sex. Generally it is caused by allergies  and skin irritation. Diabetes, cancer are other conditions that can cause severe itching and visible rashes. In women vaginal infection and in men jock itch is common.

Itching in the genital region can result from a wide range of things, including:

1. It can be due to allergic reactions to various microbes or chemicals or surgery
2. Due to Bacterial vaginosis caused by bacteria
3. Skin or tissue cancer in private parts
4. Due to diabetes condition
5. Certain chemicals present in detergents, fabric softeners, soaps, creams, ointments and lubricants, topical contraceptives, body wash, feminine sprays.
6. Drop in estrogen hormone during menopause causes dryness and itchiness
7. Sometimes parasites – public lice, crabs, that typically live in pubic hair can cause itchiness
8. Contagious, extremely itchy skin disease caused by tiny mites known as scabies
9. Genital herpes and trichomoniasis – sexually transmitting disease
10. Psoriasis, atopic dermatitis and eczema – skin conditions
11. Fungal skin infection like Tinea cruris (jack itch)
12. Yeast infection in vagina, urinary infection
13. Inflammation in tissues Vaginitis
14. Shaving- When pubic hair grows back after a clean, smooth shave it causes problem of irritation and itchiness.
15. Certain sanitary pads can lead to reaction and allergy

 Prevention:

1. Do not wear synthetic or nylon underwear
2. Do not wear tight fitting
3. While using scented body sprays, soaps be careful. Do not apply scented soap around private parts. Don’t spray perfumes, deodorants, scented creams etc. Do not use scented toilet paper.
4. Rinse well in shower to avoid leaving residues
5. Allow skin to dry before wearing clothes, let there be no moisture.
6. Wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from the anus getting into the vagina after bowel or urination.
7. Men should also wash private part well including are under the foreskin.
8. Use unscented or mild laundry detergent to wash underwear.
9. Do not wear wet clothes for longtime. Daily change your gym clothes and wash them.

Itching in private area can be painful, burning and lead to rashes all the time. Sometimes over the counter medicines will help.  If you feel that the condition is worsening, and does not go away in 2 weeks of time even after application of medicines, ointment, cream it is better to see doctor to avoid any serious complications.

References:

• https://www.webmd.com
• https://www.diabetes.co.uk
• https://www.aad.org/

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