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Anal itching (pruritus ani)

Also called: Anal itching, pruritus ani, itchy bottom

An itchy feeling around the anus. It's common and usually caused by moisture, irritation, or wiping too hard.

TypeA symptom
Common causesMoisture, irritation, hemorrhoids, pinworms
TreatmentGentle care

Overview

Scratching damages the skin and makes itching worse.

Pinworms cause itching at night, especially in children.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Itchy anus

Less common

  • Redness
  • Itching at night

Look up a symptom: Itchy anus

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayBleeding with dizziness.
See a doctor soonItching that lasts more than 2 weeks, or bleeding or a lump.

Causes

Moisture, sweat, harsh soaps, foods, hemorrhoids, pinworms, and skin conditions.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Diarrhea

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional looks at the area.

Questions you may be asked

  • Bowel habits, products used

The exam

A gentle exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Tape test: For pinworms.

Treatment

Keep the area clean, dry, and calm.

Self-care

  • Clean gently with water after bowel movements
  • Pat dry; don't rub
  • Avoid scented soaps and wipes
  • Wear cotton underwear
  • Don't scratch

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Barrier cream
Protecting skin
Hydrocortisone
Short-term itchUp to a week.

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To prevent it:

  • Gentle cleaning

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a gastroenterologist or a colon and rectal surgeon.

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Usually clears.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Anal itching (pruritus ani)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.