Female Body Concerns / Question
Published: June 25, 2000
Dear TeenHealthFX,
My vagina is always really itchy, but mostly at night. What's up?
Signed: Itchy Vagina
Dear Itchy Vagina,
TeenHealthFX is not sure what's up as we cannot make a diagnosis over the internet. You will only be able to get an accurate diagnosis by meeting with your doctor. TeenHealthFX can tell you that your vaginal area should not always be itchy and this is usually a sign of an irritation or infection. An infection or irritation can be caused by many things, including using vaginal deodorants and douches, wearing clothing that is too tight or an STD.
So, you need to go to the doctor. In the meantime, wash using a mild soap and water daily. Do not have sex until the doctor figures out what is really up! Infections are easily spread through sex. Also, condoms may further irritate your skin.
Sometimes talking to a doctor about these subjects is difficult, but it is part of your growing older, and becoming more mature and independent. If you are sexually active, please contact your local teen health center or Planned Parenthood. Teen health centers can see teens for sexual health reasons without their parent's permission and on a low/no cost basis. If you are not sexually active, talk to your mother or female relative so that your doctor, an adolescent medicine specialist or a gynecologist can check you out.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
The teen pregnancy rate in the United States is the highest of any industrialized democracy, nearly twice that of Great Britain and 10 times that of Japan. 
