A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common bacterial infection that affects the parts of the urinary system, such as the bladder or the urethra. While UTIs cause discomfort, generalized itching is typically not considered a primary symptom of this infection. A UTI is characterized by specific internal urinary discomfort, most often a painful or burning sensation during urination, known as dysuria. The sensation of itching is generally linked to conditions that affect the external genital and vaginal tissues rather than the internal urinary tract where the UTI is located.
Classic Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection
The hallmark signs of a UTI center on altered urinary function and localized pain. The most common symptoms include a frequent and urgent need to urinate, even immediately after the bladder has been emptied. This persistent urge is often accompanied by the passage of only small amounts of urine, which is a strong indicator of bladder irritation.
Painful urination is another prominent symptom, often described as a burning or stinging sensation felt in the urethra. The urine may appear cloudy, dark, or possess a strong, unpleasant odor. Discomfort or pressure in the lower abdomen, directly above the pubic bone, is also frequently reported.
Common Causes of Genital Itching
Since UTIs do not typically cause external itching, this symptom usually signals a separate condition affecting the vulva or vagina.
Yeast Infection (Candidiasis)
One of the most frequent causes is a yeast infection, or candidiasis, resulting from an overgrowth of the Candida fungus. This often produces intense genital itching, burning, and a characteristic thick, white, odorless discharge.
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Another common cause is bacterial vaginosis (BV), which involves an imbalance where certain types of bacteria overgrow. While BV can cause itching, it is more commonly associated with a thin, grayish-white discharge and a distinctly fishy odor.
Contact Dermatitis
Localized skin irritation, known as contact dermatitis, is also a frequent culprit. This irritation can be triggered by chemicals in scented soaps, feminine hygiene products, certain fabrics, or laundry detergents.
Other Causes
Other causes include sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as trichomoniasis, or hormonal changes. The decline in estrogen during menopause can lead to vaginal dryness and thinning of tissues, which may cause chronic irritation and itching.
Why UTI and Itching Might Appear Together
A person may experience both urinary symptoms and genital itching because the two conditions can occur simultaneously, often with the UTI treatment triggering the itching. The most common link is the use of antibiotics prescribed to clear the bacterial UTI. Antibiotics kill harmful bacteria, but broad-spectrum types can unintentionally disrupt the natural, protective balance of microorganisms in the vagina.
This disruption eliminates beneficial Lactobacillus bacteria, which normally maintain an acidic environment that keeps Candida fungus levels in check. With the natural defense system compromised, the Candida can multiply rapidly, leading to a secondary yeast infection that causes intense itching. In rare instances, a severe, prolonged UTI might cause inflammation that extends to the adjacent external tissues, resulting in secondary external irritation.
When to Seek Medical Testing
If you are experiencing both urinary discomfort and genital itching, seeking medical testing is important because the treatments for the different conditions vary significantly. Self-diagnosing based on symptoms alone can lead to treating a bacterial UTI with an antifungal cream, or vice versa, which will not resolve the underlying issue. A healthcare provider will typically use different methods to accurately pinpoint the cause of the symptoms.
For a suspected UTI, diagnosis relies on a clean-catch urine sample, which is analyzed for signs of infection like white blood cells and bacteria. A urine culture may be performed to identify the specific strain of bacteria.
In contrast, diagnosing the cause of genital itching, such as a yeast infection or BV, usually involves a physical examination and taking a vaginal swab. This swab is examined under a microscope or cultured to detect the presence of Candida fungus or to assess the balance of vaginal bacteria. Correct diagnosis is necessary to ensure the appropriate medication is prescribed.