Genital Itching & Pain: Common in Young Women – Study
A groundbreaking Brazilian study reveals that over 70% of young women experience vulvovaginal symptoms, with itching and pain being notably common.This research highlights a concerning trend: the normalization of these issues, including discharge and pain during intercourse, despite their impact on daily life and sexual health. The study,conducted by researchers at the Federal university of São Carlos (UFSCar) and covered by News Directory 3,underscores the urgent need for increased awareness and health education to help combat this trend. Researchers also noted a potential link between socioeconomic factors and vulvovaginal symptoms. Discover what’s next regarding prevention and treatment.
Brazilian Study: Vulvovaginal Symptoms Common Among Young Women
Updated May 28, 2025
A Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar) study reveals that a notable majority of young Brazilian women experience vulvovaginal symptoms. The research, published in the Brazilian Journal of Physical Therapy, found that 72.5% of participants reported issues such as itching, discharge, and pain during intercourse. Despite the negative impact on quality of life and sexual health, these symptoms are often normalized, according to the study.
The study involved 313 women in their 30s. Researchers aimed to understand the prevalence of these symptoms and their impact on various aspects of life.The findings highlight a contradiction: while vulvovaginal problems are common, their consequences are often underestimated.
Ana Carolina beleza, a study author and coordinator at UFSCar’s Center for Studies in Physiotherapy in Women’s Health (NEFISM), emphasized the existing taboo around vulvovaginal health. This taboo leads many women to minimize the impact of these symptoms on their overall well-being, daily routines, and sexual experiences. The research underscores the need for increased awareness and education about intimate health issues to address this normalization.
It’s significant to note that experiencing pain during sex isn’t normal and should be investigated through clinical approaches. The tendency to normalize vulvovaginal symptoms underscores the need for more intimate health education, whether in schools or in health care.
ana Carolina Beleza, UFSCar’s Center for Studies in Physiotherapy in Women’s Health
The most frequently reported vulvovaginal symptoms included vaginal discharge (63%), itching (54%), and burning (31%). Other common issues were vaginal dryness (30%), vaginal odor (28%), irritation (27%), and pain during intercourse (20%). Fewer then 30% of the women surveyed reported experiencing none of these problems. These issues can stem from infections,hormonal changes,or muscular problems,affecting emotional well-being,sexual function,and social life.
Clara Maria de Araujo Silva, the article’s first author and a researcher at NEFISM-UFSCar, noted that a extensive approach is necessary.This approach should consider cultural,emotional,and knowledge-based factors related to one’s own health. The study is the first of its kind in Brazil to focus on this age group, revealing a surprisingly high prevalence of vulvovaginal symptoms among young women.
The research suggests a potential link between socioeconomic status and the prevalence of vulvovaginal symptoms. Women with lower incomes and education levels may experience these symptoms more frequently. Beleza suggests that future studies should investigate factors like income, employment, housing, and access to health services to understand their influence on the occurrence of these symptoms. This understanding can inform strategies to reduce prevalence and combat normalization.
What’s next
Future research will explore the connection between social determinants of health and the prevalence of vulvovaginal symptoms, aiming to develop targeted interventions and educational programs.