I am a 48yo female who weighs about 184 lbs. Over the last six months, I have developed a very annoying pubic area itching and I can't seem to get rid of it. At first I tried lotion, powder, cortisone cream, Benadryl cream and finally over-the-counter fungal cream treatment for jock itch. I have been at this weight for approximately five years and had no problems in the past. I have examined thoroughly any changes made with soaps, toilet paper, laundry products, etc., and cannot pinpoint any source in that regard for the itching. I work in an office that is very well air-conditioned and get cold frequently, so I really don't think I am sweating excessively. (My underwear is never wet.)I am perimenopausal but I have no active symptoms of menopause right now. The itching started in the winter when it is drier but it was nearing the end of winter. I wear cotton underwear and cotton clothing. I don't have any vaginal itching or anal itching, and there appears to be no sign of any type of yeast infection. I have had also in the past year had three bladder infections after not having one for over 20 years with no change in sexual practices. I am partnered with a woman, and we have been together seven years with no other sexual contact. We do have a swimming pool but I have been swimming on weekends in the warm months for two years now. Swimming pool water seems to intensify the itching until I shower and apply lotion.
I went to my family practice doctor and she could not find anything wrong and said I needed to lose weight and I would stop sweating. She did test me for diabetes and my blood sugars are normal. She also did a culture of my vagina but it was negative. I and my partner have examined my pubic area and see no sign of bugs of any kind. I have no other itching problems other than some food allergies (avoidance prevents) and regular seasonal allergies that make my sinuses, nose, and eyes itch. I take Lexapro nightly and take Depo-Provera shots to block my periods. I sometimes take Benadryl at night which does keep the itching down and Alpha-Keri lotion provides some relief as well, but the itching continues to be a daily problem. Any suggestions?