Vaginal itching is the most annoying and embarrassing feeling for a woman; you may feel the itch inside at any place, such as when you are in a metro and can’t stop it, when in a cinema hall, in a public gathering, during functions and at other important events. It happens at any time, and you can’t even scratch it publicly, as it would be very embarrassing.
Vaginal itching and irritation are the most uncomfortable symptoms a woman experiences; about 69% of women deal with them every day. Basically, it is related to an infection in your vagina but can develop even if you do not have any infection.
Tingling, stinging, burning sensation, and irritation are the terms associated with vaginal itching. It may evolve at any time and settles down at any time; the itching can range from mild to severe.
Itching on any part of the body causes discomfort and irritation, but having a vaginal itch is something different. you must seek medical advice from your healthcare provider to learn how to stop itching down there immediately. You may feel uncomfortable, especially around the vagina and vulva (the labia, clitoris, and vaginal opening)
Vaginal itch is a common problem among women that is quite distracting. Let’s read further about the causes of vaginal itching and learn how to stop itching down there immediately.
Causes of vaginal itching
There are several causes that are responsible for burning irritation down there:
1. Bacterial vaginosis
Your vagina already contains a healthy mix of bacteria. Women of childbearing age easily get affected with bacterial vaginosis through unprotected sexual activities not using condoms while having sex and having multiple sex partners disturbs the balance of vaginal bacteria. Bacterial vaginosis is an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. Most of bacterial vaginosis are silent and do not cause any problem, but when it is not taken care of then you are at risk of getting a vaginal infection that causes irritation, itching, burn sensation, burning discharge, and a fishy-smelling odour.
2. Sexually transmitted infections
Having unprotected sex is an open invitation to sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia, genital herpes, genital warts, trichomoniasis, HIV and gonorrhoea. These are the possible causes of vaginal itching and other symptoms.
3. Yeast infection
It is also called vaginal candidiasis. It is caused by fungus resulting in vulva h. The yeast infection is very common in women. It affects around 3 out of four women. Women are more prone to the infection due to pregnancy, sexual intercourse certain medications and low immunity can make a woman more likely to get a yeast infection along with thick white discharge.
4. Menopause
It is one main reason for vaginal itch when women is in late 40s and 50s they experience menopause and perimenopause symptoms vaginal itch is one of many symptoms of menopause due to low estrogen levels, the vaginal lining becomes drier and thinner that cause vaginal itching, irritation and burning sensation.
5. Chemical irritants
A number of chemical substances, including creams, douches, condoms, contraceptive foams, laundry detergents, soaps, scented toilet paper, and fabric softeners can irritate the vagina and vulva.
What are the symptoms of vaginal itching
Vagina itching is a symptom that tells something is happening down there involving the vagina or the genital area called the vulva. The symptoms also include acute itching , burning sensation, thick white discharge etc. symptoms of itching down there is indication of yeast infection caused by sexual intercourse. It also gets triggered with improper hygiene. Vaginal itching is a common symptom of vaginal infection.
How to stop itching down there immediately
Remember below mentioned intimate hygiene tips to stop itching down there immediately:
1. Always use cotton underwear
Most of the time women don’t care about the intimate areas and their innerwears especially underwear. It is necessary to maintain hygiene in your private parts. You must buy cotton underwear only as they provide comfort and absorption. It is capable of soaking wetness and moisture. Cotton is highly recommended for any type of wear as it is adequate for ventilation, it allows skin to breathe and prevents sweating. Wearing synthetic underwear allows the yeast infection and bacteria to grow in vagina which causes vaginal infection or vaginal irritation. That is why cotton underwear is highly recommended for comfort, hygiene and to maintain proper pH balance in your vagina. It is good to keep your underwear separate from the rest of your underwear and do not repeat your underwear for a long time. It is advisable to change them periodically.
2. Keep vagina moisturize
Your vagina must be moist as vaginal dryness can cause discomfort and pain, especially during sex. Dryness is the root cause of burning, itching and bleeding after sex due to your vaginal wall tissues breaking open. You may feel awkward too. Keeping your vagina moist but you must apply non-fragrant moisturizer in your vagina area on a regular basis as it is a very delicate area. You must avoid dryness. Keep it moist but do not push it in your vaginal canal. Apply it externally only.
3. Promote good bacteria
Healthy bacteria in your vagina keep it healthy. Increase in bad bacteria causes vaginal itching to stop itching immediately. You must have food rich in healthy bacteria such as garlic, citrus foods, fiber foods, cranberries, and lemon juice. These foods are beneficial for preventing infections and itching down there. These foods fight against the bad bacteria growth that results in intimate health problems and promotes vaginal health issues.
4. Take care during periods
Change your pads frequently during periods. You must be careful when you are on your periods. You must maintain regular hygiene down there. Wash your hands before and after inserting tampons and menstrual cups. Always remember to change pads and tampons after every 5 to 6 hours. Additionally, remember to clean your vagina area every time you go to the bathroom to avoid bad rashes and foul odor.
5. Uses soft wash for hygiene
Vagina is a self-cleaning organ. It is recommended to keep it clean and moist. Do not be harsh on it. To stop itching down there, stop using chemical-based products for washing vagina. If you use any product, you must make sure it is chemical free to maintain the pH balance of your vagina.
6. Say no to douching
You should avoid using cleaning wipes if you have an irritation down there though vagina is a self-cleaning organ, gently wash your vaginal area with water only. This prevents which action as well
7. Stop using razor
Do not use razor on your pubic area for shaving as it may invite vaginal infection. Shaving your pubic area causes razor burn and bumps which is why the area becomes more prone to infection and bacteria and if you have any vaginal problems then make sure you must not use razor.
What makes you feel itchy down there?
Vaginal itching is very common among women. It may get triggered when not taken care of, sometimes over cleaning of the vagina also causes itching using sanitary pads and also causes irritation. So if you suspect each from a sanitary pad try to use another brand and see the difference, sometimes after taking several precautions, the itching doesn’t go away. Then you must visit your doctor as soon as possible. However, vagina is usually acidic that prevents infections and irritation, but if vagina is douched it may lead to harmful bacteria, increasing vaginal infection and itching down there
How to maintain vaginal hygiene to stop itching down there
Vagina is a self cleaning organ of the body. They go through a lot of phases such as periods, sex, childbirth, vaginal problems and menopause. It even prepares itself for the child birth that is bringing a life on earth.
Women typically think that vagina can be cleaned by using soap and other chemicals but on the contrary it causes dryness, vaginal itching and reduced pH levels.
Using chemicals to clean your vagina is a waste of products. Read the article further to save your pocket.
Women are the most amazing creation of god that has the power to birth a child a new life however vagina cleans itself as the vaginal canal houses bunch of good bacteria in vaginal microbiome that maintains the acidic nature of vagina and its pH balance that does not allow harmful bacteria to go away.
You do not need any fragrant product that treats your vagina like a rose garden it’s all a myth all you need is luke warm water to keep your vagina clean you can use mild soap with warm water to clean the vagina and vaginal areas
To maintain the vaginal hygiene and to save from itching down there you must learn below mentioned tips:
1. Being a woman you must be careful while having sex or any sexual activity do not allow your partner to go without using protection as it prevents the transference of harmful bacteria and soreness in your vagina your safety is in your hands.
2. Your vagina goes through a lot to think of its health before introducing anything to it, read the labels and instructions properly, avoid using artificially flavored condoms, tampons, and lubes, and pick things that have ‘natural’ or ‘water-based’ in their ingredient list.
3. While having sex with multiple partners you are more prone to STIs so you must regularly visit your gynecologist for the regular check ups.
4. Many prefer using sex toys for more fun but remember to use it internally only once from one partner to avoid sexual infections and diseases. Remember to wash it properly with warm water after using it. Always remember more fun, more responsibility.
5. Bath regularly and clean your private parts regularly, always wear clean and washed clothes, do not wear the same clothes especially your workout clothes to avoid infections, try to be easy breezy do not wear too tight clothes especially in the warmer months as it causes sweating and humidity.
It’s very important to feed your body with a wide variety of nutrients. To function properly you must consume an adequate amount of antioxidants, vitamin E, vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, protein and probiotics. Consuming a good diet maintains the vulvar and vaginal health so what you eat affects your health.
Cleaning your body and private parts in the shower is best thing to do, white vaginal discharge in your undies with no odor is a remark that your vagina is cleaning itself
The vulva, on the other hand, isn’t self-cleaning its a skin like any other part of the body that has skin so its need to be cleaned with warm water
After using the washroom do not forget to wipe your anus and vagina, wipe it front and back with different wipes. Do not use one wipe for both parts because this way you won’t be able to contaminate your urethra with any of the infections from the rectum. Wiping each area with a different wipe is no issue.
Peeing is natural phenomena for any human being but peeing after sex is necessary as it stops migration of bacteria into the urethra that helps in reducing the risk of UTI.
Do not scrub your vulva or any other area of the private parts; this may cause irritation, soreness and itching in your vagina. You must wash it with water with soft hands.
You can soothe your vulva skin with mild soap or hydrating aloe vera. Do not forget to rinse it with warm water but if the irritated vulva skin is not any better reach out for the help of a healthcare provider.
You can monitor your vaginal; health if you see or feel any wrong medication immediately reach your doctor for help.
Natural home remedies for stopping itching down there immediately
1. Coconut Oil
There are studies that suggest that coconut oil helps in killing Candida albicans, an organism responsible for yeast infection in the vagina. There is no evidence that proves its effectiveness.
Coconut oil has antibacterial properties that are appropriate for yeast infection. You can try this but make sure the oil doesn’t contain any chemical content. You can soak a cotton ball into the oil and apply it on the vagina you will soon feel its soothing effect. You can wear panty liners also to avoid oil marks.
2. Mix of honey and yogurt
Sugar-free yogurt is considered one of the best home remedies for vaginal itching caused due to infections. Yoghurt contains antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties that help fight yeast infections. Mix two to three drops of honey with the fresh yogurt. Apply the mixture into the vaginas.
Honey provides a soothing effect due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It calms down the burning sensation caused due to vaginal itching. However, there is no evidence to back up this remedy.
3. Coriander seeds
It helps fight against vaginal infections and helps in reducing the itch soak few coriander seeds in water overnight strain the water and drink it empty stomach this proves helpful in reducing the itching down there if you do not find it effective you can consult your doctor for better treatment
4. Cranberry juice
It contains a compound that balances the vagina’s pH level. The acidic property of Cranberry helps fight bacteria that causes infection. Drinking fresh Cranberry juice without added sugar is the best remedy to treat vaginal itching.
5. Water
it is the most essential element for the proper functioning of our body drinking plenty of water everyday keeps vaginal tissues hydrated and have the body eliminate waste effectively so keep yourself hydrated and drink water required by your body
6. Include probiotic foods in your diet
Consuming food rich in antifungal properties help promote the growth of healthy bacteria. Good bacteria in the vagina help combat the infections and calm down the itchiness.
7. Probiotics
they have been restoring the bacteria’s balance in your body. The oral probiotic is the best way to reduce the infection when probiotics are consumed orally. It is the food for bacteria that help enhance their number and balance the microbiome in the gut.
These healthy bacteria promote self-vaginal cleaning, curing the itchy patches. The frequency of infection reduces and symptoms of itching also slows down.
8. Growth of bad bacteria
Some probiotic foods include kimchi, yogurt, kombucha etc. are great probiotics that help the body to fight against infections and also improves gut health. Consumption of probiotics reduces the growth of bad bacteria in your vagina.
9. Garlic
It is known best for killing bacterial infections and it is found effective against infections, you can treat vaginal itching with garlic by adding more garlic to your diet do not apply garlic on your sensitive vaginal skin as it may cause sensation, burning and pain eating garlic in your diet is the most effective way to reduce itching down there
10. Vitamin C
It helps in boosting your immune system and places a great rule for skin health. Vitamin C has antimicrobial properties you must add vitamin C to your daily diet increasing it’s intake that boost bodies ability to beat this infection do not apply acidic vitamin C to your sensitive vaginal tissues
11. Baking soda
Baking soda bath helps in relieving yeast infections. It reduces itching, burning and swelling. It also has a positive effect on vaginal pH levels. Baking soda kills candida cells that cause infection in your vagina it contains antifungal effects. You can opt for baking soda baths for twice or thrice a day to relieve itching caused by vaginal infection.
You can soak in a baking soda bath, add one fourth cup of baking soda in water and soak in for 30 minutes or 15 minutes to feel relief.
12. Cold Compress
Sometimes vaginal itching goes beyond intolerance and causes embarrassment, so to treat it you can apply a cold compress, it is one of the best home remedies for vaginal itching. It provides instant relief from the burning sensation and itch in and around the vaginal area. Take a cotton cloth and place some ice cubes on it. Now place this towel-wrapped ice on your vulva and near the vaginal area for a few minutes repeat the procedure twice or thrice a day to reduce burning sensation, inflammation and itchiness.
13. Basil Leaves
It is a popular herb that has medicinal properties containing eugenol. It helps deprive the nerve endings that lead to itchiness. Basil leaves have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties that help treat vaginal burning and itching.
You can boil some basil leaves 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 this mixture.
14. Tea Tree Oil
It has been used traditionally as an antiseptic and antifungal treatment.You can go for essential oils also to stop itching down there tea tree oils are highly effective in treating vaginal issues, it contains antifungal properties that reduces the yeast infection in vagina. Tea tree is highly effective as it contains antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties.
Apply 2-3 drops of the oil on the outer skin of the vagina or vulva. It may help kill the yeast present in the vagina.
15. Wash With Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
The acidic component of apple cider vinegar helps in restoring the pH balance of the vagina the antimicrobial properties in eases the itch and infections. Use of apple cider vinegar soothes irritation. You can take a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar and mix it in a cup of warm water and drink it or you can wash your genitals regularly to reduce the risk of infections.
16. Oatmeal Bath
Oatmeal is an wholegrain that is powerhouse of several health benefits its a soothing element that constitutes soothing properties for skin, it has antioxidant and anti inflammatory properties that can do wonders on you can try an oatmeal bath to calm down vaginal itching on your skin, add a half cup of oatmeal to your tub and soak in it for 10 to 15 minutes that reduces inflammation, dryness and itching.
There are several women who suffer from vaginal health issues you must make smart choices and maintain vaginal hygiene to reduce itching down there if you develop any vaginal symptoms like burning sensation discharge itching intolerant itching bad odor or desire to urinate then you must meet your health care provider so that they can evaluate the symptoms.
