Topic: Genital Itch
Description Itch around the vagina and the soft skin outside of the vagina in women is most commonly due to thrush. Thrush may cause infection of the glans penis (the end part of the penis) in men, producing a tender or itchy red rash.
Do's
If you are concerned about itchy genitals, see your local doctor, family planning clinic or sexual health clinic. Identifying the cause of the itch will ensure correct treatment.
Tips
Other causes of genital itch in men and women include:
- trichomonas
- pubic lice
- scabies
- non-infectious skin diseases such as dermatitis
- herpes simplex virus which is more often painful but may be itchy.
Helpful Hints
Itchy rashes in the groin are extremely common in Australia especially in men. These are usually due to fungal infections caused by the same fungi which produce athlete’s foot and ring worm, and are hardly ever caused by sexually transmitted infections.
Other Resources
Queensland Health Sexual Health website
Related Content
Last updated: 21st April, 2008
Review Date: 8th November, 2006
