Vaginal itching and burning might be due to some serious problem or infection, but it might just be something you can treat at home naturally as well. We have found the top 5 home remedies to help you with vaginal itching and burning.
- Coconut oil
In just the past decade, we have heard so much about the health benefits of using coconut oil in our daily lives. One of these health benefits also includes its efficacy in killing the bacteria that causes yeast infection.
A yeast infection could cause the vagina to feel very itchy and this could also cause a burning sensation and pain.
Coconut oil contains properties that can kill the bad bacteria and return the vaginal environment to its natural state.
Medical News Today states that coconut oil, due to its antibacterial properties, may be beneficial in treating yeast infections. These are common fungal infections that can manifest on various parts of the body. For vaginal infections, one possible treatment method involves adding a few drops of coconut oil to your bath and immersing yourself for 15 minutes daily.
However, the not so great news about this is that the application of coconut oil for this purpose has only been done in lab studies.
No human studies have ever been done so we don’t really know for sure how effective this application can be or if it can produce any result at all.
Still, since coconut oil is pretty safe for human skin, it wouldn’t hurt to try it yourself.
- Baking soda
Baking soda is great for a variety of things, including treating vaginal infections. A baking soda bath is a proven method for treating yeast infection and it is also very easy and safe to do.
The reason behind its efficacy is the fact that baking soda contains some antifungal properties. With that said, a baking soda bath is also great for treating certain skin conditions that typically cause itching.
On top of that, it also easily resolves itching and a burning sensation caused by a vaginal infection such as a yeast infection. To use baking soda in your bath, you just need to add 1/4 cup of it into your bath and soak yourself as usual.
Alternatively, you can also turn the baking soda into a paste and then apply it to your affected skin, but this only works for external use. For treating a yeast infection, it is best to use it in a bath.
- Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is another natural substance that is great to put into a bath, especially for the purpose of treating a yeast infection.
In fact, the use of apple cider vinegar for treating a yeast infection is so well-known that it tends to make the list of natural remedies that are suggested for this purpose.
As per Healthline Media, there is a common belief that adding apple cider vinegar to your bath can provide relief for yeast infections and itchy skin. Apple cider vinegar is acidic and possesses antimicrobial effects. Advocates of natural healing propose that rinsing the vulva with a solution of apple cider vinegar and water may help alleviate itching and burning symptoms associated with yeast infections.
However, the fact still remains that we currently have very limited knowledge about its actual efficacy and mechanism of action.
This is because not many conclusive studies have been conducted to understand apple cider vinegar’s real mechanism.
Still, because there have been no reports of side effects either, it seems that trying an apple cider vinegar bath for treating your vaginal infection is a pretty safe attempt. It’s also great for treating itchy skin in general.
To make an apple cider vinegar bath, just add roughly 1 cup of it into your warm bath.
- Greek yoghurt and honey
Greek yoghurt and honey as a home remedy for a yeast infection are quite well-known in the medical industry. But maybe not that many laymen or laywomen know about their health benefits in this regard.
Greek yoghurt actually contains a lot of good bacteria that can be effective in eliminating the bad bacteria that causes a yeast infection.
At the same time, it is also effective for restoring balance to the environment of your vagina. Meanwhile, honey is well-known to contain antibacterial properties, so this addition is wonderful for fighting off bacteria that cause a yeast infection.
The great news is, there have been plenty of studies to prove that greek yoghurt and honey paste can be even more effective in treating yeast infection in comparison to store-bought medicines for the same purpose.
Some experts warn against using this mixture right on your vagina, though, so it’s best to consume them orally.
- Fermented foods aka probiotics
The same reason why greek yoghurt is suggested for the treatment of a yeast infection applies here.
Yoghurt is quite literally fermented milk, and there are many other types of fermented foods out there, and most of the time, they are wonderful for treating vaginal infections.
Fermented foods naturally contain probiotics that support the growth of ‘good’ bacteria to fight off ‘bad’ bacteria. When you have more good bacteria in your system, it is a healthy thing to maintain.
On top of yoghurt, other popular fermented foods that are healthy to consume regularly include, but are not limited to:
- kombucha (fermented tea or coffee)
- miso (fermented soy paste)
- nattou (fermented soybeans)
- kimchi (fermented cabbage)
- sauerkraut (fermented cabbage)
Medical News Today suggests that fermented foods, often recognized as beneficial for women’s health. These foods contain advantageous bacteria that aid in maintaining our gut and vaginal microbiome, thus preserving the optimal acidic vaginal pH. By doing so, these foods can help prevent the growth of fungi, thereby mitigating symptoms like vaginal itching and burning.
Regular consumption of fermented foods is a wonderful habit to have, but as with everything else in life, you must consume them within reason. Too much of anything is never good.
In brief, vaginal itching and burning are normal sometimes and can be prevented by following the mentioned home-based remedies. Along with these home remedies, we recommend all the ladies stay hydrated to prevent infection and itching.
Why Does My Vagina Itch? Remedies For Vaginal Itching
Vaginal itching is a common problem that many women experience at some point in their lives. It can be uncomfortable, embarrassing, and even painful. There are many reasons why the vagina may itch, and it is important to understand the causes and potential remedies.
One of the most common causes of vaginal itching is a yeast infection. This occurs when there is an overgrowth of the fungus Candida in the vagina. Yeast infections can be triggered by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, antibiotic use, and a weakened immune system. The main symptom of a yeast infection is intense itching in and around the vagina, along with a thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge. Fortunately, yeast infections can be easily treated with over-the-counter antifungal medication.
Another common cause of vaginal itching is bacterial vaginosis. This is a condition that occurs when there is an imbalance in the bacteria in the vagina. Symptoms include itching, a foul-smelling vaginal discharge, and a burning sensation when urinating. Bacterial vaginosis can be treated with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider.
In some cases, vaginal itching can be caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as trichomoniasis, chlamydia, or gonorrhea. These infections can cause itching, along with other symptoms such as abnormal discharge, pain during sex, and a burning sensation when urinating. It is important to seek medical treatment for STIs to prevent further complications and reduce the risk of spreading the infection to sexual partners.
Menopause can also be a cause of vaginal itching. As women age, their estrogen levels decrease, which can lead to thinning of the vaginal walls and dryness. This can cause itching, irritation, and discomfort. Using a water-based lubricant during sex can help alleviate these symptoms. Additionally, there are hormone therapies available to help manage menopausal symptoms.
Other potential causes of vaginal itching include skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, allergies to certain products such as soap or laundry detergent, and irritation from tight clothing or synthetic underwear. It is important to identify the specific cause of the itching in order to find the most effective remedy.
So, what are some remedies for vaginal itching? The first step is to avoid using any products that may irritate the vagina, such as scented soaps, bubble baths, and perfumed hygiene products. Wearing cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing can also help reduce irritation. For immediate relief, applying a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area can help soothe the itching. It is important to avoid scratching, as this can further irritate the skin and lead to infection.
Some natural remedies for vaginal itching include using apple cider vinegar, probiotics, and tea tree oil. Apple cider vinegar has natural anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties and can be used as a douche or added to a warm bath. Probiotics, such as yogurt, can help restore the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina. Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic and can be applied topically to help relieve itching and inflammation.
If the itching persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can properly diagnose the cause of the itching and provide appropriate treatment. They may also prescribe medication or recommend lifestyle changes to help prevent future occurrences of vaginal itching.
In conclusion, vaginal itching can be caused by a variety of factors, and the best remedy will depend on the underlying cause. Maintaining good hygiene, avoiding irritants, and seeking medical advice when necessary can help alleviate and prevent vaginal itching. Remember, it is important to listen to your body and seek help when something doesn’t feel right. Don’t suffer in silence, as there are many effective remedies available to help relieve vaginal itching and discomfort.
