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Itchy bottom at night

Also called: Pinworms

An itchy bottom at night, especially in children, is often pinworms. The whole family may need treatment.

Common causesPinworms
Usually serious?No
Get checked ifSymptoms in children or the household
If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Possible poisoning or something swallowed? Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.

Overview

Pinworm eggs spread by hands.

Itching is worst at night.

When to get medical care

Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayNot usually urgent.
See a doctor soonNight itching around the anus.

Causes

Caused by pinworms.

OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause itchy bottom at night. Each shows how soon to get care.

Common causes

  • PinwormsOften treated at home

    Tiny white worms that cause an itchy bottom, especially at night.

What you can do at home

  • Wash hands often.
  • Trim nails.
  • Wash bedding.

Medicines

Medicine treats pinworms; repeat in 2 weeks.

At the doctor

A tape test finds eggs.

Questions you may be asked

  • Itching
  • Household

The exam

An exam.

Tests

  • Tape test

Prevention

Prevent spread.

  • Wash hands

Check your symptoms

Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.

Start the symptom checker

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.