Caused by Poor Hygiene | Caused by Hormonal Changes | Caused by Sexually Transmitted Infections
Vaginal itching can be caused by irritation from soaps, detergents, or foods, as well as yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis (BV), hormonal changes, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
There are various home remedies for an itching vagina, however, which one to use will depend on the cause of the itching.
Read on to learn the causes of an itching vagina and the proven home remedies that provide relief.
Vaginal Itching Caused by Chemical Irritation or Food
Some women can experience an allergic reaction to chemicals in certain soaps, detergents, bubble baths, body washes, fabrics, or food resulting in a rash or itching that can sometimes localize in the vagina.
Home remedies for this type of vaginal itching involve an elimination process to determine the source of the irritant. Once you’ve discovered the root of the irritant and stop using the product or food type, the itching will usually disappear.
While you are going through the process of elimination you may find relief from dissolving 1-2 cups of ground oatmeal in a warm bath and soaking in it for up to 30 minutes.
Additionally, try switching to cotton underwear, which is a more natural and breathable fabric than synthetic materials.
Vaginal Itching Caused by Poor Hygiene
Poor hygiene can also be a culprit for vaginal itching, however it is easily eliminated by some simple lifestyle changes and improving some of your daily routines.
Avoid douching, and instead wash your vagina every day with unscented soap and warm water. As well as wearing breathable cotton underwear, try not to wear jeans or pants that are too tight. Drink at least two liters of water per day to flush out harmful bacteria, and change wet bathing suits or sweaty gym pants as soon as you can.
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Home Remedies for Itching Vagina During Yeast Infection
A vaginal yeast infection is an infection caused by a fungus called Candida or Monilia. It is perfectly normal for this type of fungus to reside in the body but when the immune system is weak due to illness, or when you are taking antibiotics, a fungal imbalance can cause an infection.
Home remedies for an itching vagina during a yeast infection include ingesting probiotics to rebalance the bacteria in the vagina. Probiotics can be ingested by eating natural Greek yogurt or as a supplement taken orally, such as the Flora Bloom Feminine Probiotic from Intimate Rose.
Avoiding sugar, and taking a warm bath with an added cup of baking soda can also provide relief.
Vaginal Itching Due to Hormonal Changes
Many women experience hormonal changes during the different stages of menstruation, as well as during pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause. A decrease in estrogen, for example, can cause itching and dryness in the vagina.
Home remedies for itching and dry vaginas due to hormonal changes include placing an icepack (wrapped in a towel to prevent ice burn) on the vagina for 10-20 minutes at a time. Dissolving 1-2 cups of ground oatmeal in a bath of warm water and soaking in it for 20-30 minutes can also ease this type of vaginal itching.
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Home Remedies for Itching Vagina During Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial Vaginosis is a vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. It is most common in women aged 15-44 and includes symptoms such as an itching vagina, pain during urination, and a foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
In conjunction with antibiotics prescribed by your doctor, women’s health experts highly recommend Boric Acid Vaginal Suppositories from Intimate Rose as a home remedy to treat and relieve BV symptoms.
By supporting a natural rebalancing of acidity in the vagina, this natural supplement acts rapidly to soothe itching. These capsules are inserted directly into the vagina.
Vaginal Itching Caused by Sexually Transmitted Infections
When an itching vagina is a result of a sexually transmitted infection (STI), such as Trichomoniasis, Gonorrhea, or Chlamydia, it is usually accompanied by a strong-smelling vaginal odor, a thick yellow discharge, and discomfort when urinating.
The first step to take if you experience STI symptoms is to contact your doctor for treatment as they will not go away on their own. As an additional home remedy, take a regular probiotic to balance vaginal bacteria, as an imbalance can significantly increase the risk of contracting STIs.
It’s also recommended to use a condom with any new sexual partners.
Conclusion
Although home remedies can help to ease many causes of vaginal itching, it is important to consult with your doctor if it is accompanied by blisters, pain when urinating, or a burning sensation during intercourse.
References
Office on Women’s Health – Vaginal Yeast Infections - https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/vaginal-yeast-infections
National Center for Biotechnology Information – Fluconazole and Boric Acid for Treatment of Vagina Candidiasis - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26866095/
Mayo Clinic - Bacterial vaginosis https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bacterial-vaginosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20352279
Center for Disease Control & Prevention – Trichomoniasis - https://www.cdc.gov/std/trichomonas/stdfact-trichomoniasis.htm
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