A persistent vaginal itch is more than just a nuisance: It can signal anything from local irritation to more insidious conditions. It's therefore important to pinpoint the source of itching correctly. Here are 5 common causes that can lead to itching of the vagina as well as the external genital area (vulva).

1. Clothing

The genital area is one of the key places where we perspire. If discharge and moisture becomes trapped under tight layers of clothing, this can lead to skin irritation. Synthetic fabrics such as the adhesive backing of panty liners and too-snug jeans are especially moisture-trapping. Go for breathable cotton panties and lightweight clothing so your vagina can breathe.

2. Excessive Cleaning

Another common cause of itching is over-zealous cleaning of the vaginal area. Like the inside of your mouth, your vaginal opening is meant to stay moist, so avoid excessive cleaning of the vaginal area. In fact, some women are so obsessed with cleanliness that they wash the vulva with soap and water after every urination. What they don't know is that they're doing more harm than good, because washing the area vigorous washing with pure soap can easily lead to irritation. Cleaning once a day is enough, and use a mild unscented feminine wash or just water instead.