Itching or irritation anywhere on the body can cause discomfort. But viginal itching that just won’t go away is uncomfortable to talk about, and even more uncomfortable to deal with. We’ve all been there, so don’t feel embarrassed. Viginal itchiness is extremely common, but there’s a big difference between having a little itch and being up all night thinking dealing with it.
If you have constant viginal itchiness, you should go to the doctor to get it checked out. If you spot bumps or a rash down there, it could be a sign of an STI and may need to be treated with prescription drugs. Other causes for itching can be:
- Yeast infection
- Overgrowth of normal bacteria in the vagina, called bacterial vaginosis
- Foreign objects left in the vagina, such as a tampon
- Chemicals found in detergents, feminine sprays, ointments, creams, douches, jellies, or creams
- Tight fitting clothing
- Menopause can cause the vaginal walls to thin and dry out causing itching and irritation.
As you can see, there are a few things that can make your vagina itchy, and the way you fix the itch depends on this. Still, here are a few home remedies that can help.
Petroleum Jelly
For mild, non-specific itching, using something that’s bland and soothing with no active ingredients in it can help calm the itch. Just putting a little on your finger and rubbing it into the areas that are itchy can be very extremely soothing.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil contains several bioactive compounds such as alpha-terpineol, terpinen-4-ol, gamma terpinene and alpha-terpinene that have great antifungal, antiprotozoal and antibacterial properties that help reduce the infection and soothe an itching vigina. Create a spray with 0.4% concentration tea tree oil mixed with one quart of water and use it regularly to clean your vaginal area.
Neem Water
Neem has been prescribed as a remedy for many skin related issues. It fights against bacterial and fungal infections. It has anti-inflammatory properties that helps soothe itching vigina and reduces any discomfort.To use this method boil some neem leaves in water. When it is lukewarm, wash the affected area with it directly every time you use the bathroom until itching subsides. You can also add a few drops of neem oil to your bath to keep your vagina free from bacterial or fungal infections.
Salt Water Bath
Cleaning your vagina with salty water whenever you feel the itch is advisable. Salt helps control the growth of microbes causing infections. Salt also helps reduce the itch and other related discomforts.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Organic raw apple cider vinegar has excellent antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. It will help remove the itching completely if it is a fungal or bacterial action that is causing the infection. For enjoying the benefit of apple cider vinegar, take two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and mix it with warm water. Wash your vagina with this water twice a day up to 3 days.
Coconut oil
Using natural oils such as coconut oil can be very useful as they have excellent hydrating properties that ensure that your vaginal walls are restored over time. Coconut oil has multiple health benefits including anti-fungal properties. To treat a vaginal yeast infection using coconut oil, be sure to buy pure, organic coconut oil. You can apply the oil directly to the affected area.
Cold Compress
This is one of the easiest solutions available to temporarily soothe any itching or burning sensation. Simply apply ice cubes directly or a cold compress in the vagina.
Flaxseed Water
If menopause is the issue, then it is a good idea to use flax seeds as they are loaded with phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens can help reduce several pre and postmenopausal symptoms such as vaginal dryness which can lead to itching and irritation. To create flaxseed water grind a tablespoon of flaxseeds and add it to a glass of water. Be sure to consume within 24 hours of grinding the seeds.
Garlic
It is advisable to chew at least three cloves of garlic daily if you are experiencing an itch. This is because garlic contains antibacterial and as antibiotic properties that can help kill bacteria and yeast.
Yogurt
Yogurt has active cultures that can remove the bad bacteria by adding good bacteria in abundance. It also soothes the irritation, burning and itching in the area almost immediately after you apply it. Because it is a probiotic, it is useful in eliminating thrush or yeast infection as well. Apply pain unsweetened yogurt on the itching vigina. Leave it on for a few minutes and wash it off with water. Repeat this every 6 hours for best results.
Cranberry Juice
Cranberry juice is also a pH altering and can help prevent itching vigina. Drinking unsweetened or tart cranberry juice regularly increases the acidic levels of your vagina and helps prevent harmful bacteria growing growing and can curb any yeast infection. Drink one glass every day on an empty stomach for faster results..
Basil
Basil leaves have anti microbial, anti fungal and anti bacterial properties. Take basil leaves and boil it in two cups of water. Steep for 20 minutes covered till the water becomes strong. Drink this water twice a day for removing the bacteria causing vaginal itching.
As always, if home remedies aren’t helping, see your OB/GYN. If you’re pregnant, see a doctor before trying any of these home remedies.