Have you ever experienced the discomfort of vaginal itching? This agonizing condition is annoying, uncomfortable and can be embarrassing. There's no need to suffer anymore - science is here to help with the real truth about how to treat this issue permanently.
The best solution for getting rid of irritating vaginal itching is to consult your doctor to determine the underlying cause. However, there are several home remedies to curb the so-called "itchiness" you might feel down there.
Using a probiotic supplement or yogurt can help to improve the balance of the healthy bacteria in your vagina and fortify the good microorganisms. This keeps the pH of the area in check and can reduce and/or prevent itching. A good health regimen is also needed for boosting your immunity; good nutrition, plenty of sleep and reduces stress, as well as limited alcohol which can be antaganistic to health.
Unscented soaps and detergents are recommended as strongly scented products can disrupt the pH balance and encourage itching. Change out of damp clothing quickly and opt for breathable fabric such as cotton underwear that will allow the area to air out.
There are also some natural remedies to help treat vaginal itching, including wearing cold, damp washcloths to calm and soothe the area. Applying a paste made with a teaspoon of baking soda and two tablespoons of water onto the area can work to neutralize the itching and stinging caused from an acidic environment.
ember that vaginal itching can be a symptom of a distinct infection, so consulting with your doctor is the best course of action for getting rid of the problem for good. Early diagnosis helps to treat the infection and prevent it from returning and also leads to much more successful results.
More Options for Treating Vaginal Itching
There are many topical treatments available to treat vaginal itching. Lotions, creams and ointments can sometimes provide relief, but they can only mask the symptoms, not tackle the root cause. You'll still need to take steps to address the underlying issue and consider any lifestyle changes necessary.
Another topical remedy is tea tree oil, which is a natural antibacterial agent and can help to reduce the associated inflammation and soreness caused by an aggravated infection. Aloe vera gel can also provide relief, and some herbal remedies such as neem, witch hazel and astragalus can help too. Make sure to check with your doctor before attempting any home remedies.
If the underlying cause is found to be a yeast infection, also known as candidiasis, your doctor will likely prescribe an antifungal cream or ointment. Over-the-counter medications such as Monistat and Vagistat-1 are available too.
If symptoms persist despite all the above measures, it may be worth exploring other health concerns such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or even sexually-transmitted infections (STIs). STIs may require antibiotics to properly treat the infection.
Preventing Future Vaginal Irritation
Once irritation is taken care of, take the necessary steps to prevent reoccurring situations. Wear cotton underwear, use only mild, unscented cleansers and detergents, keep the area clean and dry, and limit your sexual partners to reduce the risk of infection.
Remember, it is important to see a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Whether you need an antibiotic or additional parameter testing, a professional can advise you on the best treatment plan and help to keep your vaginal health in check.
Dealing with Vaginal Discharge
Most women experience vaginal discharge at varying times throughout their lives. While sometimes normal, experiencing a thick, clumpy discharge or an unusual color could be a sign of an infection. Trapped moisture and yeast due to tight, synthetic clothing combined with stress or a weakened immune system can also lead to an infestation of candida fungus, resulting in itching and a substantial odor.
The best ways to protect against candida fungus is by making sure to practice good hygiene and wear clothes made of breathable fabrics such as cotton. Don’t use perfumed hygiene products, and take any necessary antibiotics as directed by your doctor.
The primary way to treat this type of fungal overgrowth involves the use of antifungal medications either orally or vaginally. This typically helps to clear up the infection in a timely manner and relieve the itching.
The Consideration of pH Balance
Having a healthy pH balance in the vagina is a crucial factor when it comes to preventing infections of any kind. Taking steps to ensure the desired acidic environment of the vagina is maintained is very important. This can be done by taking probiotic supplements, eating yogurt, and making sure to practice personal hygiene.
It is also important to avoid using perfumed or scented products when washing or cleaning the genital area, as these can disrupt the vagina’s natural environment. Wearing loose, breathable clothing is another way to make sure that there’s plenty of airflow and help keep the area dry.
Including prebiotics, which are carbohydrate fibers that feed beneficial bacteria, into your diet can help to maintain the vaginal pH balance too. Foods such as barley, oats, bananas, and garlic are good sources of prebiotics and should help to regulate pH levels.
Being Proactive in Diet and Exercise
Part of maintaining vaginal health is eating nutritious, mineral-rich foods to boost the immune system and reduce your chances of bugs setting up shop. Foods such as nuts, oats, and legumes can provide the right amount of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals to help fend off infection.
Exercising regularly can also be beneficial for feminine health. Exercise helps to reduce stress levels, flush toxins, and get the blood circulating. This helps to prevent stagnation and infections that can lead to itching and other issues down there.
Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce inflammation and hormonal imbalances which can result in vaginal itching. Knowing your body and paying attention to any changes are key indicators of health and should help you spot any issues in time to see a doctor.
Weekly Care and Maintenance
Even when nothing appears to be wrong, it’s best to take precautionary measures to ensure your vaginal area stays healthy. Using plain, unscented and unbleached towels or disposable wipes to pat dry and an additional application of a light oil such as coconut oil can help to prevent irritation.
Avoiding certain practices such as douching, synthetic fabrics, too-tight clothing, and bubble baths that contain harsh chemicals is also critical when it comes to caring for your vagina. Good hygiene not only helps reduce the risk of infection, but also symptoms such as vaginal itching.
