Medical References

Diseases & Conditions

Women's Health

Mental Health

Men's Health

Medical Web Links

MOL Site Map

Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
Read more health news

Genital Irritation in Females

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

Genital irritation in females is any condition that causes discomfort in the female genitalia. The hymen or outer lips of the vagina and labia, the clitoris, and the vulva are parts of the external female genitalia. The internal female genitalia include the vagina, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.

What is going on in the body?

The female external genitalia has a rich blood supply. As a result, even minor conditions can cause irritation to the area. Irritation to the female genitalia can range from mild itching or discomfort to severe, intense pain. It may occur suddenly or last a long time.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

There are many causes of genital irritation, including:

chemical irritation to the lining of the genitals, such as from soaps, bubble bath, or laundry detergent

infection, such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including Neisseria gonorrhoeae\ bacteria. The infection is usually acquired through sexual contact. ',CAPTION,'Gonorrhea in Females');" onmouseout="return nd();">gonorrhea, Chlamydia trachomatis\. Sexually transmitted disease refers to any contagious disease transmitted from one person to another during sexual contact. In women, the infection usually occurs in the urinary tract, pelvis, or cervix. The cervix is the opening between the vagina and the uterus. ',CAPTION,'Chlamydia Infection in Females');" onmouseout="return nd();">chlamydia, HIV, and herpes

other infections, including Candida albicans,\ \Candida tropicalis,\ \Candida glabrata,\ and \Candida parapsilosis.\ ',CAPTION,'Vaginal Yeast Infection');" onmouseout="return nd();">vaginal yeast infections, urinary tract infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, and cervical infections

inflammation of the genitals, such as cervicitis or vaginitis

conditions causing increased vaginal discharge, such as erosion, which is an ulceration of the cervical lining

trauma, especially to the cervix, which may be caused by intercourse, tampon insertion, or speculum insertion during a pelvic exam

tumors, growths, or cancer

certain medications, including hormones, antibiotics, antihistamines

hormone changes or imbalances

autoimmune disorders, which are conditions in which a person's immune system attacks his or her own body for no apparent reason

tight-fitting clothing

inadequate lubrication prior to intercourse

traumatic sexual experiences, including rape

previous surgery, including D&C or hysterectomy

Home • Sitemap • Contact Us • Advertising • Press Room • Give Us Your Feedback • Read Our Terms & Conditions and Our Disclaimer • Privacy Statement