Is it just an itch ... or an STD? When the weather heats up, you're more likely to get irritated down there. But it could be a tip-off to something more serious.([+] THE COSMO HEALTH REPORT)(sexually transmitted disease)

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Thanks to more frequent down-there grooming, time spent lounging in a wet bikini, and summer flings, now is when you're most at risk for developing a condition or infection that leaves you scratching below. It could be something minor, of course, but there's also the possibility that you've contracted a sexually transmitted disease. To help you get a handle on what's behind your itch and how to ease it, follow our five-question flowchart.

1 Did you shave or wax your V zone within the last day or two?

If yes ...

If no, skip to question 2

Summer is prime defuzzing season. But you may not realize that these hair-removal methods are rough on the skin of your bikini line, often leading to tiny abrasions that trigger itching afterward: Curb the urge to scratch your pubes silly--and possibly cause an infection of the hair follicles, characterized by painful red bumps--by treating the abrasions with an OTC hydrocortisone cream.

To prevent irritation, use a moisturizing shaving gel, and either get a new razor or replace the blade after every four shaves. If you wax, apply a moisturizing lotion around your V zone daily; it'll keep skin hydrated and, therefore, less likely to itch.