Burning, itching, and an unpleasant odour - Are you facing these issues in the vagina? Vaginal itching, also called Vulvar pruritus, is common and can occur for various reasons. In fact, one in every five women struggles with vaginal infections.
Different women experience different types of infections like – one may feel itchiness on the skin around the vagina while others may feel itchiness inside the vagina. Let’s discuss types of vaginal infections in detail.
Home Remedies for Itching in Private Parts Female
Vaginal itching is the prime symptom of various body conditions. It can be due to chemical irritants, vaginal dryness, or STIs. It is often embarrassing for women, especially when the itchiness is severe and intolerable in public places.
But how to stop itching down there? Are there any home remedies for itching in private parts? Yes. Check out these remedies to stop and calm down vaginal itching.
1. Coconut Oil
A study reveals that coconut oil helps kill Candida albicans. It is the organism responsible for yeast infection in the vagina. There isn't valid evidence proving whether it is effective on females or not.
The antibacterial properties of coconut oil prove effective on yeast infection. However, try pure and fresh coconut oil. Make sure it is free from any chemical content.
- Apply the coconut oil directly to the vagina.
- Wear pad or panty liner when trying this remedy as it may leave a mark on the underwear.
2. Mix of Honey and Yoghurt
Sugar-free yoghurt is considered one of the 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 yoghurt. 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. Be Careful While Choosing Sanitary Pads or Menstrual Products
Many women face allergic reactions to using sanitary pads. It even triggers many allergies, especially if you are allergic to such products. If you witness constant itching during or after your menstruation, it's time to switch your pads.
Moreover, scented pads contain perfumes. It can be irritable and lead to itchiness. Switching to organic pads or non-scented pads can be an option here.
4. Yeast Infection Cream
Generally, many assume that yeast infection is the major reason behind vaginal itchiness. However, vaginal infections have several causes. Are you well versed with the causes of your vaginal infection? Are you sure that yeast infection is the reason behind the itchiness? If yes, consider OTC or Over-The-Counter yeast infection cream.
Apply the ointment into the vagina after cleaning the area thoroughly. It helps kill the yeast formation, clean the area and lower the itchiness. Wear the pantyliner with such creams.
5. Practice Good Hygiene
The vagina is known to clean itself. Practising vaginal hygiene helps prevent and calm the itchy vagina. Sometimes, simple washing is the best solution to 'how to stop itching down there.'
Clean the vulva or the outer private part with lukewarm water. Avoid using intimate cleansers and scented gels or soaps. The chemical content in them may irritate the vagina, which further causes allergic reactions.
6. Include Probiotic Foods in Your Diet
Consuming food rich in antifungal properties help promote the growth of healthy bacteria. Such bacteria in the vagina help combat the infections and calm down the itchiness.
Probiotics are foods 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. Some probiotic foods include kimchi, yoghurt, kombucha, etc. It helps the body fight against infections and also improves gut health.
7. Make Dietary Changes
There are several causes of itching in private parts. The itchiness may get worse due to one's food intake. If you witness frequent itchiness or vaginal infection,
- Avoid sugars and cheese, as it is the food for yeast.
- Don't drink alcohol.
- Avoid fruits and yeast-based foods like bread.
- Eat more vegetables.
- Consume more rice and wheat.
Consulting an expert would be better if you want to make dietary changes to cope with the symptoms of vaginal infections.
Including more vegetables and carbohydrates help build immunity and protect against itchiness and burning sensation.
8. Boric Acid
The powdered form of boric acid helps treat yeast infections. A study even suggests its effect is similar to fluconazole.
Fluconazole is an antifungal medicine that helps combat many skin diseases.
However, a few facts describe the long-term safety of using boric acid powder. If the issue is recurring, don't use it without seeking healthcare recommendations. However, using it topically or as a vaginal suppository may help out.
9. Baking Soda
Sodium bicarbonate or baking soda is one of the common home remedies for vaginal itching. When dissolved in water, it forms an alkaline solution.
It helps create a non-conducive environment for the fungus, preventing it from multiplying. It acts as a remedy for soothing and relieving the itchiness, swelling, and burning sensation.
Add a quarter cup of baking soda in a bathtub containing two buckets of water. Allow the mixture to mix thoroughly. Now, lie down and relax for a few minutes. However, there are a few facts describing the safety of using baking soda.
10. Cold Compress
If the itchiness is intolerable and goes beyond the tolerance level, a cold compress is one of the best home remedies for vaginal itching. It provides quick and fast relief from the burning sensation around the vaginal area.
Cold compress makes the area insensible, helping reduce the burning sensation, swelling and inflammation. Use a few ice cubes for a cold compress. But how to use it?
Put some ice cubes in a bag and wrap them with a clean cotton cloth. Now, place the ice pack on your vulva and near the vaginal area for a minute. Repeat the procedure 2-3 times a day for quick relief from the itchiness.
11. Basil Leaves
Basil is a popular medicinal herb containing eugenol. It helps desensitise the nerve endings that lead to itchiness. Basil leaves have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties that help treat vaginal burning and itching.
Take 20-30 fresh basil leaves and boil them 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.
12. Tea Tree Oil
Essential oils, like tea tree and oregano oil, are highly effective in treating vaginal issues. 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.
13. Wash With Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
ACV helps relax the vaginal burning sensation and itching. It even has strong antifungal and antibacterial properties, which balances the pH level of the vagina, thereby helping restore the vaginal flora easily.
One can either drink a tablespoon of ACV with a cup of lukewarm water or wash the genitals regularly to reduce the recurring infections.
14. Colloidal Oatmeal Bath
It helps lower the skin's inflammation and provides relief from itching and irritation. Dissolve oatmeal into the bathtub containing warm water. Soak up yourself in it for 20 minutes. The anti-inflammatory properties of the colloidal oatmeal provide relief.
15. Wear Cotton Underwear
Cotton is a breathable fabric that ensures the proper flow of air. It helps lower the skin's irritation and reduces vaginal burning sensation. Always prefer cotton underwear over synthetic ones.
Homoeopathic Medicine for Itching in Private Parts Female
Homoeopathic medicine may also help relieve vaginal itching, dryness, and discharge while extracting and treating the root causes. Here is the list of some medicines that you can get prescribed from a homoeopathic doctor:
1. Pulsatilla
Pulsatilla helps treat the vaginal candidiasis caused due to creamy vaginal discharge. This creamy discharge often accompanies itching and burning in the genitals.
2. Kreosote
It is one of the best homoeopathic medicines for itching in the private parts of females while successfully managing the violent itchiness.
3. Merc Sol
It helps manage the vaginal itching and burning sensation.
4. Graphites
It is the popularly prescribed medication for relieving vaginal itchiness before menses
Types of Vaginal Infections
Yeast Infections cause vaginal infection
Yeast infections are the type of vaginal allergy commonly known as Candida. It lives harmlessly on your skin and inside the body parts like throat, mouth, genitalia, etc., in small numbers but, once it starts multiplying, it leads to yeast infections.
Bacterial vaginosis causes vaginal infection
Bacterial vaginosis, known as lactobacilli – a friendly bacteria that lives in the vagina. Sudden lack of lactobacilli or an overgrowth of these bacteria can cause symptoms of infection.
Trichomoniasis causes vaginal infection
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection. It passes from one person to another during sexual intercourse. Burning, redness, or swelling of the vulva are the symptoms.
Also read: Removing vaginal odour
Vaginal Itch Causes
Few reasons that can cause vaginal itching are-
1) Douching
Douching refers to cleaning the insides of your vagina with mixed fluids or water. Women often use this method as a step towards hygiene, but experts believe it does more harm than good. It could lead to vaginal infections and issues during pregnancy.
2) Extreme scratching and rubbing
Refrain from performing harsh movements around your genital areas, as scratching your vagina will aggravate your vaginal itch.
3) Harsh soaps and harmful products
Products with artificial fragrances and chemicals that do not agree with the pH levels of your vagina can cause a vaginal itch.
4) Menopause
During menopause, the estrogen levels of women reduce drastically. This causes vaginal problems. One of them could be an itch inside the vagina.
Also read: Vagina whitening and how to lighten dark private parts
Things to Avoid
When using any home remedies for vaginal itching, here are some things to avoid:
- Douching and female hygiene sprays: Feminine hygiene products contain chemicals that irritate the skin. One should even avoid douching as it may deter the vaginal balance and its natural acidity.
- Talcum powder: A study reveals that talcum powder might cause ovarian cancer.
- Scented clothing detergents: Synthetic and perfumed ingredients are the common causes of itching in private parts. It contains allergens and chemicals that interfere with vaginal health.
Risks
Generally, vaginal itching is not a cause of concern. However, its recurring nature may suggest some disorder. It often leads to:
- Blisters in vulva
- Disrupts sleep
- Swelling, redness, and curdy discharge from the genitals
- Difficulty in urinating or having sex
When to See a Doctor?
Although there are home remedies for itchiness, some urgencies require immediate doctor's consultation. If you witness these symptoms, call the doctor as soon as possible:
- Genital swelling and redness
- Unusual vaginal discharge accompanied with a foul odour
- Frothy or curdy discharge
- Pain in the pelvic region and genital parts
- Burning sensation or pain while urinating or sexual penetration, etc
Summing up on Home Remedies for Itching in Private Parts Female
Many conditions lead to vaginal itchiness. Some types are easy to manage, while some require immediate doctor's intervention.
Home remedies are quite comfortable and may help revive the condition to normal. However, consult the doctor if the pain or burning sensation prolongs despite these remedies.
FAQs
Is Coconut Oil Good For Itchy Skin?
Yes, coconut oil is good for itchy skin. It is a natural moisturiser that prevents dryness. It helps keep the skin hydrated and treats irritative sensitive skin.
Can I Use Salt Water To Wash My Private Parts?
Use warm salt water only to wash the outer private parts like the vulva. Avoid douching or washing in the vagina. Douching or putting salt water inside the vagina may increase the irritation and burning sensation.
Can I Use Lemon Leaves To Wash My Vagina?
Yes, lemon leaves contain a limonene compound containing antibiotic, antimicrobial, and anti-allergic properties. It helps get rid of the foul smell and cleanse the vagina. Just boil the lemon leaves and cool them down. Wash the vagina with the mixture.
Can I Apply Honey On My Vagina?
Yes, you can apply honey to the vagina. Honey has antifungal and antibiotic properties that help restore the good bacteria in the vagina. Further, it even helps decrease the yeast growth causing itchiness.
References
- Beena Shino, 2016; Comparison of Antimicrobial Activity of Chlorhexidine, Coconut Oil, Probiotics, and Ketoconazole on Candida albicans Isolated in Children with Early Childhood Caries: An In Vitro Study - https://www.hindawi.com/journals/scientifica/2016/7061587/
- Vulvar Care, May 2012 - https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1542-2011.2012.00183.x
- Allam M. Abdelmonem, February 2012; Bee-honey and yogurt: a novel mixture for treating patients with vulvovaginal candidiasis during pregnancy - https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00404-012-2242-5
