itch/redness in the vaginal area

, I've developed a terrible itch/redness in the vaginal area about 5 days prior to my period; it goes away 2 or 3 days after I 'start.'  

[J. Kyle Mathews, MD, DVM]

Might you be using a panty shield prior to your period?  We often see patients develop allergies to panty shields (alway brand is the most common).  Cyclic external irritation is often the result of irritation caused by contact with some type of allergen.  Soaps, detergents, fabric softeners, etc. and cause allergic reactions.  I instruct patients to wash their underwear in Woolite, White Cotton underwear only, no thongs, no fabric softeners, and use a neutorgena soap. If none of this applies to you, you will need to be seen at the time of your symptoms to have a culture done.  J. Kyle Mathews, MD