Vaginal itching can be a distressing and uncomfortable issue that many women encounter at some point in their lives. While it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if itching persists or is severe. There are several home remedies that can provide relief from milder cases of vaginal itching. In this article, we’ll explore common causes of vaginal itching and various home remedies to help alleviate the discomfort.
Why one feels Itching in Genital Area?
Before delving into the remedies, it’s important to understand why vaginal itching occurs. Several factors can lead to this discomfort:
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): Certain sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, can cause vaginal itching. If you suspect an STD, it’s crucial to seek prompt medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Bacterial Vaginosis: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection caused by an imbalance in the naturally occurring bacteria in the vagina. This imbalance can result in itching, along with a fishy odor and unusual discharge.
Menopause: Hormonal changes during menopause can result in vaginal dryness, irritation, and itching. This is primarily due to a decrease in estrogen levels.
Yeast Infection: Yeast infections are another frequent cause of vaginal itching. They occur when there’s an overgrowth of yeast in the vaginal area, leading to symptoms like itching, burning, and a cottage cheese-like discharge.
Chemical Irritants: The use of harsh soaps, scented products, or douches in the vaginal area can irritate the sensitive skin, leading to itching and discomfort.
Why Many Girls Feel an Itchy Vagina after Period?
Many women experience vaginal itching after their menstrual period. Several factors contribute to this:
Hormonal Fluctuations: Hormonal changes during your menstrual cycle can affect vaginal pH and moisture levels, potentially leading to itching.
Sanitary Products: The use of tampons or sanitary pads can create a moist environment, which can be conducive to the growth of yeast or bacteria.
Irritation: Chemicals or fragrances in sanitary products may irritate the sensitive vaginal skin, causing itching.
Now that we understand some of the reasons behind vaginal itching let’s explore a range of home remedies that may help alleviate the discomfort.
Home Remedies for Vaginal Itching
Here are some remedies to get relief from vaginal itching.
Practice Good Hygiene: Practicing vaginal hygiene helps prevent and calm the itchy vagina. Sometimes, simple washing with lukewarm water is the best remedy to stop vaginal itching. Avoid using intimate cleansers and scented gels or soaps. The use of such chemical may irritate the vagina, which further causes allergic reactions.
Avoiding Irritants: One of the simplest steps is to avoid using harsh soaps, scented products, or douches in the vaginal area. Opt for a mild, unscented soap for your intimate hygiene.
Using Baking Soda: Adding a few tablespoons of baking soda to your bathwater can help relieve itching and discomfort. It can help balance pH levels in the vaginal area.
Careful Selection of Menstrual Products: Many girls face allergic reactions because of using low quality sanitary pads. Carelessness can cause many allergies, especially if you are allergic to such products. Especially avoid scented pads that contain perfumes because it can be irritable and lead to itchiness.
Eating Yogurt: Consuming yogurt with live cultures can promote healthy vaginal flora by introducing beneficial bacteria. You can also apply plain yogurt topically for relief.
Cold Compress: If the itchiness is intolerable and goes beyond the tolerance level, a cold compress is one of the best home remedies for vaginal itching. Using few ice cubes on itchy area makes it insensible, helping reduce the burning sensation.
Taking an Apple Cider Vinegar Bath: Diluting apple cider vinegar in your bathwater can help balance vaginal pH and soothe itching. It’s important to use a small amount and ensure it’s well diluted to avoid irritation.
Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is well-known for its moisturizing and antimicrobial properties. Applying a thin layer of coconut oil to the affected area can help soothe itching and provide relief.
Basil Leaves: Basil is a popular medicinal herb containing eugenol. Boil basil leaves in water, let it cool, and use the liquid to wash the vaginal area. Basil possesses natural antibacterial properties and may offer relief from itching. Take 20-30 fresh basil leaves and boil them in water. Pour the mixture into a bowl and let it cool down. Once cooled down, rinse your vagina 2-3 times a day with basil leaves water..
Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties. Dilute it with a carrier oil and apply it externally to relieve itching. Ensure proper dilution to avoid skin irritation. Apply 2-3 drops of the oil on the outer skin of the vagina. It may help kill the yeast present in the vagina.
Applying Honey and Yogurt: A mixture of honey and yogurt can be soothing when applied externally to the itchy area. Both honey and yogurt have antibacterial properties.
Dietary Changes: Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and probiotic-rich foods. A healthy diet can support overall vaginal health.
Lifestyle Changes: Consider wearing cotton underwear, which allows better air circulation. Avoid tight-fitting clothing, as it can trap moisture and exacerbate itching. Practice good hygiene by gently washing the vaginal area with mild, unscented soap.
Include Probiotic Foods in Your Diet: Eating foods abundant in antifungal properties can foster the proliferation of beneficial bacteria. These beneficial bacteria, residing in the vaginal environment, actively combat infections and alleviate discomfort from itching. Probiotic-rich foods encompass a variety of options such as kimchi, yogurt, kombucha, and more. They contribute not only to bolstering the body’s defenses against infections but also to enhancing overall gut health.
Colloidal Oatmeal Bath: It provides relief from itching and irritation. Dissolve oatmeal into the bathtub and soak up yourself in it for 20 minutes. The anti-inflammatory properties of the colloidal oatmeal provide relief from itching and irritation.
Wear Cotton Underwear: In general, when faced with itching in private parts, choosing cotton underwear is a wise and preferable option. Its breathability, hypoallergenic properties, reduced friction, and absorbency make it a soothing and practical choice during such times. It helps lower the skin’s irritation and reduces vaginal burning sensation. Always prefer cotton underwear over synthetic ones.
Final Thoughts
It’s important to note that while these home remedies can provide relief for mild cases of vaginal itching, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice. If your symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by pain or unusual discharge, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Vaginal itching can have various underlying causes, and effective treatment depends on identifying and addressing the specific issue.