If your vulva is itchy and swollen but there is no discharge, there could be a few causes. Most conditions that cause itchiness around the vulva also cause discharge, such as yeast infections. However, if you don't seem to have any discharge but still find it itchy, it might be caused by one of the following issues.
There are several potential causes of an itchy vagina or vulva with no discharge. These include razor burn, eczema, and pubic lice. Some home remedies, such as wearing breathable underwear and taking an oatmeal bath, can work to relieve the symptoms.
There is often little or no vaginal discharge; if present, discharge is typically white and clumpy (curd-like) or thin and watery. Symptoms of a yeast infection are similar to a number of other conditions. A physical examination and laboratory testing are needed to determine the cause of symptoms.
“All yeast infections are not characterized by itching and discharge,” she explains. “Some are mild and do not cause the usual symptoms.”
Redness and swelling of the vulva. Vaginal pain and soreness. Vaginal rash. Thick, white, odor-free vaginal discharge with a cottage cheese appearance.
A yeast infection causes burning, itching, redness in your vulva (the outside parts of your vagina) and changes to your vaginal discharge. A yeast infection isn't a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Other names for a vaginal yeast infection include vulvovaginal candidiasis or vaginal candidiasis.
Itching is the most common symptom of a vaginal yeast infection. Women may also note pain with urination, soreness or irritation, pain with intercourse, or reddened and swollen vulvar and vaginal tissues.
Complications of untreated yeast infections
If left untreated, vaginal candidiasis will most likely get worse, causing itching, redness, and inflammation in the area surrounding your vagina. This may lead to a skin infection if the inflamed area becomes cracked, or if continual scratching creates open or raw areas.
If you don't really have a yeast infection, antifungals won't help you get better. They can actually prolong the real problem, because while you'll think you're treating the issue, the real cause will continue to develop.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs or STDs)
“Sexually transmitted infections can often mimic yeast infections in that they may cause vaginitis, an irritation of your vagina or vulva,” Dr. Nelson said. “Symptoms can include vaginal discharge, itching, burning, pain with sexual activity, bleeding and vaginal odor.”
What causes vaginal itching? Infections might be the cause. You may have bacterial vaginosis, a yeast infection, or an STI. Menopause-related hormonal changes, diabetes, or skin conditions are other possible causes.
With yeast infections, discharge is usually thick, white, and odorless. You may also have a white coating in and around your vagina. With bacterial vaginosis, you may have vaginal discharge that's grayish, foamy, and smells fishy. (But it's also common for BV to have no symptoms.)
Fortunately, most yeast infections are not serious. Left untreated, yeast infections will usually go away on their own, but the severe itching can be hard to tolerate for some.
Mild yeast infections may clear up in as few as three days. Sometimes, they don't even require treatment. However, moderate to severe infections may take one to two weeks to clear.
Can yeast infections go away on their own? A mild yeast infection may go away on its own, but this is rare. It's always a good idea to treat a yeast infection, even if it's mild. If yeast infections are not treated properly, they're more likely to return.
Diagnosing a Yeast Infection: Signs to Look for
Thick, white discharge (the texture of cottage cheese) Burning feeling especially when peeing or having sex. Vaginal pain, redness and swelling.
Symptoms - The primary symptom of BV is an abnormal, odorous vaginal discharge. The fish-like odor is noticeable especially after intercourse. Women with BV also may have burning during urination or itching around the outside of the vagina, or both.
Vaginal itching is a symptom of infections such as chlamydia, genital herpes, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis. Don't panic, but do call your doc — especially if you notice any other worrying symptoms, like pain when you pee or abnormal-colored discharge (thick, cloudy, bloody, white, grey, yellowish, or greenish).
Why does the itching get worse at night? The itching can get worse at night due to increased moisture in the area, temperature changes, bacteria, and increased awareness. There are certain conditions, such as pubic lice, in which the itching gets worse at night.
A lack of regular hygiene practices, such as daily showers and brushing your teeth, or a constantly damp environment can also lead to chronic yeast infections. You're also at risk of recurring yeast infections if you have a weakened immune system.
Girls can have vaginal infections for all sorts of reasons that have nothing to do with sexual contact — such as stress, for example. Even if you're not having intercourse, fingering and oral sex can lead to infection. Ask your boyfriend to wash his hands before touching your genitals.
Signs and Symptoms of Yeast Infections
Burning sensation, especially while urinating or during sexual intercourse. Itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva. Redness and swelling of the vulva. Thick, white or grayish vaginal discharge that resembles cottage cheese.
Women tend to be more likely to get vaginal yeast infections if their bodies are under stress from poor diet, lack of sleep, illness, or when they are pregnant or taking antibiotics. Women with immune-suppressing diseases such as diabetes and HIV infection also are at increased risk.