How else can I treat perianal and external vaginal itching or irritation?
Hydrocortisone preparations are the most commonly recommended anti-itch treatment in the U.S. However, with long-term use they can thin perianal tissue and promote rather than treat itching. Most yeast infections respond to prescription-free antifungals such as miconazole. Thorough and gentle cleansing is recommended to relieve current burning and itching and to prevent future episodes. A recent study even found that washing with a liquid cleanser was as effective as topical steroids for the treatment of idiopathic perianal pruritus.
