Jock Itch in Women

Jock itch is a skin disorder, caused by the fungus Trichophyton rubrum which belongs to the ringworm family of Tineas. Also known as Tinea Cruris in medical terms, jock itch in women appears as itching rashes in the groin areas, which if left untreated, can spread to the entire body. It thrives in damp, closed and warm areas, and infects the dead cells of the upper skin layer.

Causes of Jock Itch in Women
Women who sweat a lot, wear tight synthetic underwear, swimwear or other athletic clothes are more prone to get infected by jock itch. Heat, humidity, damp skin areas due to sweating, friction between the skin folds, and a weak immune system are some other causes of jock itch. Women having a history of atopic dermatitis are also at a high risk of this fungal infection. Intimate contact with objects that harbor the fungus also invites the fungi. It is contagious and can spread by contacting the spores that survive on the dead skin cells or objects for a long time.

Symptoms of Jock Itch in Women
Jock itch normally appears as a red, itchy, flat skin rash on the inner side of the thigh area where the fold of the groin area joins the leg. It usually spreads outward and downward in a circular formation with slightly pinkish brown color center area. The outer area is slightly raised, scaly and bright red in color. In severe cases, the area may enlarge and may develop blisters or sores that may start oozing. In such cases, it is important to seek a doctor's care as soon as possible. Chafing, itching and burning sensations are also commonly experienced by women suffering from jock itch.

Diagnosis for Jock Itch in Women
Proper diagnosis for jock itch is essential to separate it from other skin diseases like psoriasis or dermatitis. Diagnosing the actual cause for the fungal infection helps in providing the right treatment to the patient for immediate cure. Normally, doctors can detect the cause of infection by just looking at the rash, but for confirmed diagnosis, there are different tests that can be performed. The most commonly conducted test is the KOH test in which the doctor will do a skin scrapping, place the skin cells on a glass slide and put few drops of potassium hydroxide (KOH). The reaction between the skin cells and the KOH secretes the hyphae (fungus), which when colored with a stain can be easily identified.

Treatment for Jock Itch in Women
Since the fungus affects the top layer of the skin, applying topical creams or ointments is the best way to treat female jock itch. Some anti-fungal medications like tolnaftate (Tinactin), clotrimazole (Lotrimin) and miconazole (Micatin) are quite helpful in curing the infection. The creams should be applied twice or thrice a day for nearly two to three weeks. If the rash gets extremely red and itchy, and develops blisters at its edges, a topical steroid called hydrocortisone can be applied. Make sure you don't use steroids in the groin areas without consulting a doctor, as the steroids can make the rash worse if not used under prescription and supervision.

Wearing loose fitting clothing made of cotton or synthetic materials, avoid sharing cloths, towels, wash cloths, and keeping the groin areas completely dry after showering and before covering with clothes are some preventive measures that can help in minimizing the risks of jock itch in women. By taking immediate action on the first sign of jock itch and keeping your environment clean and hygienic, you can safeguard yourself from future infections of jock itch.