Vaginal itching is easily one of the most common and frequent health issues suffered by women. Medically called ‘vaginitis,’ this condition can be extremely uncomfortable and embarrassing.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)(1), as many as one-third of women of reproductive age experience the ‘feminine itch’ at least once in their lifetime.
Itching is generally accompanied by other symptoms such as inflammation and pain in the vagina, abnormal vaginal discharge, and vaginal odor.
When symptoms of vaginal itching manifest, a common mistake that most women tend to make is to reach for over-the-counter pills, creams, or ointments immediately. These medications, if not used cautiously, however, can worsen the condition.
Rather, one can use home remedies for vaginal itching and burning, which is easier and cost-effective. So if you are struggling with any irritation, itching, swelling, or discomfort in the vagina, here are some natural home remedies that will help you tackle this condition head-on.
We have also answered some common questions you may have regarding this problem ‘down there.’
In general, it is always helpful to recognize and identify the common factors that tend to trigger a condition to treat it effectively.
Vaginitis or vaginal itching is normally caused by an overgrowth or imbalance of bacteria and yeast that are ordinarily found in the vagina.
This imbalance can cause the vagina to turn bright red, inflamed, or irritated. A huge range of things can provoke vaginal itching, including
Symptoms may manifest in the form of itching in the genital area, burning sensation with urination, vaginal discharge, swelling, soreness, or redness around the vaginal area and pain during intercourse.
For some women, the symptoms may be subtle, and the problem sometimes clears up on its own within a few days.
For other women, fending off the vaginal itch can be hard as the symptoms are much more severe. Whether mild, moderate or severe, most of the symptoms of vaginal itching and burning can be managed effectively with these simple, straight-forward natural remedies.
Fortunately, there are many proven and all-natural remedies for relieving itching and irritation down there. Here are some beneficial home remedies to treat itching in private parts.
Baking soda for vaginal itching is one of the most popular home remedies. This household staple is believed to have antiseptic and antifungal properties that can kill ‘candida'(2). the fungal cells responsible for vaginal itching and infections.
In a basin or tub of water, add about two tablespoons of baking soda and ¼ teaspoon of salt and wash the vagina with this mixture. If you are adding sodium bicarbonate to your bath, then add a whole cup along with a handful of salt, and soak in it for 10 to 20 minutes after it has dissolved.
You can also add in a teaspoon of baking soda and a pinch of salt into a spray bottle of water and simply spray this solution onto the affected area. Repeat this once or twice a day. Also, make sure to pat the area dry after your bath.
[Read: Home Remedies for Dry Vagina]
Coconut oil(3) is another natural ingredient that can effectively treat genital itching. Lauric acid and its derivative monolaurin, which is found in coconut oil have valuable antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties that can combat the development of infections or other minor irritations.
Coconut oil for vaginal itching can be applied externally on to the affected area. It is, however, advisable that you do a skin patch test to test for allergies before you apply it to your private parts.
To carry out a skin patch test, you simply need to rub a small amount of the oil to your forearm or back. Leave it on for 24 hours and see if you experience any irritation, itching, or redness. If there is no obvious reaction, then it should be safe for you to apply. Be sure to use organic coconut oil.
[Read: Coconut Oil for Vaginal Dryness]
Cold compress is one of the cheapest and simplest ways to get rid of discomfort due to vaginal itching. Using a cold compress will numb the area and help to bring down inflammation and swelling.
To use a cold compress for vaginal itching, soak a clean washcloth in cold water and gently rub it against the irritated area for 5 to 10 minutes. You can also use an ice pack if you like.
Remember, however, that the vagina is a delicate area. When applying an ice pack or anything frozen to the area, make sure that you cover it in a hand towel first as it can get stuck to your skin.
Yes! Apple Cider Vinegar can be more than just a great salad dressing. Apple cider vinegar for vaginal itching has highly beneficial antiseptic properties and is considered a natural antibiotic. Proponents believe that its acidic properties can not only kill harmful bacteria but also influence and rebalance your pH.
Add about half a cup of apple cider vinegar to lukewarm water and soak in it for about 20 to 30 minutes. This will kill all the harmful bacteria that is causing you to itch. Make sure you rinse the area well afterward. This remedy is not recommended if you have any cracks or cuts in your private area.
[Also Read: Apple Cider Vinegar for Candida]
Another natural way to soothe your itchy and inflamed skin is a powdered oatmeal bath. Oatmeal contains a compound called Saponins which is known to possess powerful cleansing properties. It can wipe away exterior irritants from the skin.
Fill your tub with lukewarm water and sprinkle about one cup of powdered oatmeal. Soak in this for about 10 to 15 minutes, rinse the area carefully, and gently pat yourself dry.
At the end of the day, remember that not all health information you find online is absolutely reliable. Neither are all home remedies necessarily going to work for you. So you will want to make your decisions cautiously.
If your symptoms persist for more than a week or if it repeatedly occurs several times a year, then don’t wait! Seek immediate advice from your doctor or gynecologist. The sooner you seek treatment, the better.
Vaginal Itching or ‘Vaginitis’ commonly affects women of child-bearing age. Women of any age can, however, be affected by this condition.
There are a number of simple things that you can do to prevent vaginal itching. These include:
Sex is generally not recommended if you have an itchy vagina as there is the risk of passing on vaginal infections to your partner. It is advisable, therefore, to engage in sex only once the irritation subsides.