Home remedies for bacterial vaginosis: Probiotics, garlic, and more
How To Stop Vaginal Itching: 10 Home Remedies
Baking soda, probiotics, and antifungal creams are just a few of the home remedies that can help relieve your vaginal itching. Douches and feminine hygiene sprays, however, are not.
Vaginal itching can be a symptom of many conditions. It could be caused by something like vaginal dryness or chemical irritants, such as the ones found in scented soaps. Itching can also be the result of a yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI), or something else.
There are many home remedies for an itchy vagina, but the remedy you choose will depend on the cause of the itch.
Vaginal itchiness is often due to one of the following common causes.
Yeast infectionIf you have a vagina, there's a chance that you'll get a yeast infection at some point in your life.
Yeast infections are caused by Candida, a naturally occurring microorganism in the vaginal area. Changes in medications, hormones, or a soap or spray can make a yeast infection more likely.
Healthy vaginas naturally have Candida in them, but when this microorganism overgrows, it can cause a yeast infection. This can cause an itching or burning sensation in the vagina.
Other than itching, yeast infections can cause you to have a thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge.
Bacterial vaginosisBacteria naturally grow in your vagina to keep it healthy. But when the bacterial makeup is unbalanced, certain kinds of bacteria may become overgrown, most commonly Gardnerella vaginalis. Douching, not using condoms, and having multiple sex partners can increase the risk of having bacterial vaginosis.
Bacterial vaginosis is often accompanied by a fishy odor, burning during urination, and discharge that's gray, white, or green.
Vaginal drynessThis is a symptom of many conditions. It can cause your vagina to feel itchy inside. It can also cause discomfort during sex or masturbation, as there will be more friction during penetration, which can irritate your skin.
Water-based lubricants can help with vaginal dryness. Estrogen creams were also found to improve vaginal dryness and itching in a 2017 study done on 50 Indian women. You can visit your doctor if it seems to be a consistent problem for you.
Exposure to irritantsThe skin near your vulva and vagina is sensitive. Irritating chemicals in pads, intimate washes, sprays, and more can irritate the skin and cause an itchy vagina. This is why it's recommended that you avoid using anything other than water to wash your vulva.
It's also possible to have an allergic reaction to the contents of intimate washes and menstrual products.
If you suspect your pad is irritating your skin, try a different brand, or switch to tampons or a menstrual cup.
Skin conditionsSkin conditions can affect your pubic area and the skin around your vulva, leading to itchiness.
Some skin conditions that may cause vaginal itching may include:
If you suspect you have a skin condition, speak with your doctor or dermatologist.
Low estrogen levelsAlthough more common in young and perimenopausal females, low estrogen levels can be experienced at any age.
Estrogen plays a major role in maintaining vaginal secretions. These vaginal secretions lubricate the vaginal wall, reducing friction during sexual intercourse. Low estrogen levels can reduce the natural lubrication in the vagina. This can lead to vaginal dryness, which can result in irritation and itching, especially during sex.
Other symptoms of low estrogen can include irregular or absent periods, fatigue, and hot flashes.
STIsA number of STIs could cause vaginal itching. These include:
The above conditions require medical attention, so speak with your doctor if you think you have an STI.
Baking soda bathBaking soda baths can potentially treat yeast infections as well as certain itchy skin conditions.
According to a 2012 study, baking soda has antifungal effects. A 2014 study found that baking soda killed Candida cells, the same cells that cause yeast infections.
The National Eczema Foundation recommends adding 1/4 cup of baking soda to your bath, or making it into a paste and applying it to your skin to treat eczema.
A study from 2005 found baking soda baths to be an effective treatment for psoriasis too.
Greek yogurtGreek yogurt is a common home remedy for yeast infections.
A probiotic yogurt promotes the growth of "good" bacteria in the vagina. This bacteria can kill off some yeast and keep your vagina healthy.
A 2012 study looked at 129 pregnant women with yeast infections. Researchers gave 82 participants a yogurt and honey treatment and 47 participants an over-the-counter antifungal cream. The study found that a mixture of honey and yogurt was more effective at treating vaginal yeast infections than over-the-counter antifungal medication.
A 2015 study involving 70 nonpregnant women reached the same conclusion: Yogurt and honey were more effective than commercial antifungal cream.
Cotton underwearCotton underwear is helpful if you have any sort of vaginal or vulvar discomfort. Cotton underwear is breathable, which means that it can help reduce itchy skin conditions.
Wearing 100% cotton underwear might prevent yeast infections, as yeast thrives in areas that aren't well ventilated.
Apple cider vinegar bathIf you're searching the internet for how to relieve vaginal itching, chances are you'll find apple cider vinegar listed as a cure-all.
Many people believe that adding apple cider vinegar to your bath can soothe a yeast infection. It's also a common home remedy for itchy skin.
There's little evidence to support this claim, though. Nevertheless, it's a cheap remedy to try, and one that has no known side effects.
Probiotic supplementsBacteria is essential for vaginal health, and probiotics can increase the "good" bacteria in your vagina.
You can find probiotic supplements, such as capsules and tonics, at your local drugstore, health store, or online. These promote the growth of healthy and helpful bacteria in your vagina and gut.
These can be taken as a preventative measure too. Your doctor might recommend taking probiotics when they prescribe antibiotics.
Coconut oilA 2016 study demonstrated that coconut oil can kill Candida albicans, which causes yeast infections. However, this study was done in a lab, and there's not enough evidence to confirm whether it works in humans.
Antifungal creamIf a yeast infection is causing you discomfort, there are many over-the-counter antifungal creams that can bring you relief. They kill off the yeast, which soothes the itch. They can also come in the form of vaginal suppositories, which are inserted into the vagina.
If you use an antifungal cream or suppository in your vagina, it's best to wear a pantyliner.
Cortisone creamIf you're itchy after shaving pubic hair, cortisone cream might be your best bet. This can also be used to treat eczema, allergic skin conditions, and some rashes. It reduces the itch and soothes it.
Cortisone cream should never be applied inside your vagina but can be applied to the skin outside it where pubic hair grows.
Probiotic foodsSimilar to taking probiotic supplements, eating food that contains probiotics can promote the growth of "healthy" bacteria in your vagina and gut. This is important for your vagina and your gut health.
Probiotic foods include:
If you have a yeast infection, eating the above foods can help your body fight it.
HygienePracticing good vaginal hygiene can prevent and soothe an itchy vagina.
Sometimes, less is more when it comes to washing your vagina and vulva. Your vagina cleans itself, so all you need to do is wash the outside of your vagina — your vulva — with some warm water.
Don' use scented soaps, gels, or cleansers. You should also avoid products that are marketed as feminine hygiene or intimate cleansers. Vaginal douching should only be done if your doctor prescribes it.
Douching and over-washing your vagina and vulva can actually cause itchiness. Soaps and scents can irritate the vagina and cause allergic reactions and infections.
While an itchy vagina can often be treated by home remedies, you might have to see a doctor if you have certain symptoms. These symptoms include:
Typically, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and take a look at your medical history. They might perform a pelvic exam, which involves examining your vulva and vagina.
If you don't already have an OB-GYN, the Healthline FindCare tool can help you connect to physicians in your area.
There's a lot of unreliable information on the internet when it comes to treating vaginal itch. Some remedies are worse than others. Here are three you should always avoid.
Douches and feminine hygiene spraysLots of feminine hygiene sprays contain perfumes and ingredients that can worsen itch and inflame the delicate skin around the vagina and genital area.
Most doctors also recommend that you don't douche. Douching can change the necessary balance of vaginal flora (bacteria that live in the vagina) and natural acidity in a healthy vagina.
Scented clothing detergentsPerfumes and synthetic ingredients are a common cause of genital itching. Look at the ingredients in your laundry soap or any soap in the bath. If it has ingredients you don't recognize, ditch that brand.
A good resource is the Environmental Working Group, which lists allergens and other chemicals in specific brands of soap (among many other consumer products).
Talcum powderThere was a time in the not-too-distant past when it was believed talcum powder was a wonder product for moisture in hard-to-reach places.
It was used to diaper babies and for vaginal itch. After years of use, it was discovered to have a link to ovarian cancer, as this article explains.
STIs, bacterial infections, and yeast infections can all lead to vaginal itchiness. In order to prevent these infections, you can do the following:
You can lower your risk of developing STIs by:
You can prevent bacterial infections and yeast infections by:
Probiotic-rich foods can promote vaginal health by maintaining the "good bacteria" present in your vagina. These bacteria help prevent the overgrowth of yeast, which can cause a yeast infection.
Probiotic-rich foods include:
Other foods that are good for your vagina include:
Can you put itching cream on your vagina?You shouldn't put itching cream, known as hydrocortisone creams, inside your vagina. It can increase inflammation or cause atrophy since the skin on this part of the body is sensitive.
You can, however, use these creams on the outside of the genital area for relief.
Can you put Vaseline on your vagina to stop itching?No. Vaseline, or petroleum jelly, is an oil-based ointment. There have been some studies that link Vaseline with an increased risk of vaginal health issues, such as bacterial vaginosis.
How can you stop itching down there at night?Vaginal itching may seem worse at night because there are fewer distractions, and we tend to be relaxing before bed. Take a bath and change into cotton clothing. If you're taking an over-the-counter medication, know that these treatments can make symptoms worse.
Scratching the area, or excessive bathing might make itching worse, according to a 2012 article.
There are many effective home remedies for an itchy vagina, from Greek yogurt to coconut oil. Some of these remedies may work better than others. Be sure to avoid methods like douching and using talcum powder.
If you have any unusual or unexplained symptoms, or if you're simply wondering how to stop vaginal itching, see your doctor.
Read this article in Spanish.
13 Simple Home Remedies To Soothe An Itchy Vagina Area, According To Gynecologists
There are few things more uncomfortable than developing an itch in your vagina. It's not surprising that when it strikes, you likely rush to your phone to look up how to stop itching down there ASAP. This may not be all that comforting when you're in the thick of it, but you're hardly the only person who gets stuck with this problem.
"Vaginal itchiness is extremely common, but there's a big difference between having a little itch and being up all night thinking you can't stand this," says Lauren Streicher, MD, an associate professor of clinical obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.
The most common culprits are irritants such as bubble baths or fragranced soaps, yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis, and hormonal changes due to lack of estrogen (often caused by lactation or menopause), according to Lyndsey Harper, MD, an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Texas A&M College of Medicine and the CEO and founder of Rosy. "When estrogen is low, the bacterial makeup of the vagina changes and the skin becomes thinner and more easily irritated which can lead to varying degrees of discomfort and itching."
In addition to infections (yeast or bacterial) or STIs, an allergy or skin condition might be to blame, and the vagina (the inside canal) and/or the vulva (everything on the outside) might be involved, adds Alyssa Dweck, MD, an ob-gyn based in Westchester County, New York.
So vaginal itchiness is rarely a sign of a serious underlying issue. But if it's ongoing or you spot other concerning symptoms like blisters or a rash, you should get it checked out so you can get an accurate diagnosis and receive the appropriate treatment, notes Kyle Bukowski, MD, an ob-gyn and the chief medical officer at Planned Parenthood of Maryland.
But don't worry, because if you've already checked-in with a healthcare provider and are just dealing with the occasional itchiness, there are plenty of doctor-approved home remedies that can successfully calm your itch.
Meet the experts: Lauren Streicher, MD, is an associate professor of clinical obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Lyndsey Harper, MD, is an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Texas A&M College of Medicine and the CEO and founder of Rosy. Alyssa Dweck, MD, is an ob-gyn based in Westchester County, New York. Kyle Bukowski, MD, is an ob-gyn and the chief medical officer at Planned Parenthood of Maryland.
1. Check your soap.Your vulva is a sensitive area, and some soaps, especially ones that contain delicious-smelling fragrances, can make you itchy down there, says Jonathan Schaffir, MD, an ob-gyn at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
The Proper Ways To Clean Your Vagina And VulvaTry switching to a hypoallergenic soap like Cetaphil and see where that gets you. "Sometimes just eliminating a particular product will make all the difference," Dr. Streicher adds.
2. Rethink using pads.Some women experience allergic reactions to their menstrual pads that can trigger a serious case of the itches. That's because some pads contain perfumes that can be irritating, explains Dr. Schaffir. If you notice you get especially itchy around your period, stop using your go-to pads and opt for an unscented variety, or even organic versions of pads and tampons.
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3. Use an over-the-counter cream, like Vagisil.Vagisil Anti-Itch Multipack
Vagisil Anti-Itch Multipack
Vagisil cream is designed to help fight vaginal itch and can soothe things down there, Dr. Schaffir says. It works by forming a protective barrier over your skin to make it feel better and save you from developing more irritation. Use this for any itchiness you suspect may be caused by antibiotics or discharge.
4. Apply Aquaphor.If you've been itchy, it may also burn when you pee, so add a little Aquaphor to the area, clean with water after you go, and be gentle with the wiping, Dr. Streicher says. While petroleum jelly can make a yeast infection worse (if you have one), Aquaphor is more breathable for the skin while still creating a barrier down there, she says. Plus, it can be soothing.
5. Try a yeast infection cream.A lot of women assume they have a yeast infection whenever they get a vaginal itch, but it's not always the case, Dr. Streicher says. Still, if you've had a yeast infection before and you know that's what you're dealing with, an OTC yeast infection medication should help. Keep in mind that you can also get a yeast infection in your vulva—and there are creams for that too.
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Common symptoms of a yeast infection include a white, cottage cheese-like discharge, vaginal itchiness or irritation, and even pain during urination or sex, per Dr. Bukowski. And while you can start with an OTC antifungal cream for fast relief, you should see a doctor if symptoms persist for more than a few days so you can get prescription meds to clear it up.
"Because symptoms of a yeast infection overlap with those of some STIs and other infections like bacterial vaginosis, an accurate diagnosis is critical," he says. "If symptoms do not improve, it's important to visit a healthcare provider since misidentifying infections and treating them incorrectly can lead to persistent or recurrent infections."
Definitely see your doc if you're unsure whether the symptoms you're experiencing may be related to a yeast infection.
6. Take a sitz bath with lukewarm water.A hot bath can provide more than a little relaxation when you're dealing with itchiness down there. In case you're not familiar, a sitz bath is a warm, shallow bath that you sit in to relieve itching and irritation around your anus or vagina, per the Cleveland Clinic. Feel free to add plain Epsom salt or oatmeal bath such as Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment, Dr. Dweck says.
Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment
Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment
Warm water can relax your muscles and improve circulation to ease pain and promote healing, while the added ingredients can calm skin irritation. A 2014 study published in Current Microbiology found that baking soda killed Candida cells (which are responsible for yeast infections, FYI), so consider adding some to your bath if you have a fungal infection.
Make sure to clean your bathtub first to remove any soap or cleaner residue, then fill up to two to three inches of warm water between 99 and 102 degrees Fahrenheit. Add ½ cup of baking soda and swirl the water until everything is dissolved before sitting in the water for 10 to 15 minutes. Afterward, you can dry the vagina area with a hair dryer on a cool low setting. Repeat a maximum of three times a day for best results, according to the University of Michigan Medicine.
7. Consider an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream.Hydrocortisone creams are often used for minor skin irritations, so they can be helpful for external vaginal itching as well. Just don't insert these creams inside the vagina, as it can worsen inflammation since some products are specifically formulated for the vagina, notes Dr. Harper.
After all, hydrocortisone creams are meant to alleviate itchiness brought on by eczema and other skin conditions like insect bites and allergies, but you can use them around the pubic area if you're feeling itchy due to razor burn after shaving, according to the Cleveland Clinic. That said, Dr. Harper suggests talking with your doctor before using hydrocortisone creams on the vulva and vagina.
8. Apply an ice pack or other cooling therapy.Applying a cold treatment like an ice pack or over-the-counter cooling pad can provide relief down there, says Dr. Dweck. Just be sure to use them with a cloth barrier such as your underwear or a towel rather than applying directly to the skin, as you could further irritate it.
9. Opt for cotton underwear.Certain fabrics can lead to extra irritation and itching, so sticking with cotton panties may be your best bet, says Dr. Dweck. Better yet, opt for organic,she adds.
10. Try an alternative hair-removal method.If you shave your bikini area and notice that it's always followed by itchiness, Dr. Dweck recommends considering other methods, such as laser hair removal, electrolysis, or waxing.
11. Pop a non-drowsy OTC antihistamine.Medications like Benadryl are known to help relieve allergic reactions to the skin, so trying them for itch issues may prove to be helpful as well, says Dr. Dweck.
12. Moisturize the external area."From time to time, vaginal itching may be due to dry skin, so consider a hypoallergenic moisturizer without petrolatum, which may worsen the issue," says Dr. Dweck.
13. Consider hormone therapy.If all else fails, vaginal estrogen might do the trick if low estrogen is the issue, which can be the result of experiencing menopause, taking hormonal birth control, breastfeeding, or taking certain medications, explains Dr. Dweck. "You'll need a prescription, so talk to your gyno if you want to consider this option."
The bottom line: While these home remedies for vaginal itch can be a temporary solution, if you're struggling with an itch that won't quit, it's time to see your doctor to get it checked out.
Korin Miller is a freelance writer specializing in general wellness, sexual health and relationships, and lifestyle trends, with work appearing in Men's Health, Women's Health, Self, Glamour, and more. She has a master's degree from American University, lives by the beach, and hopes to own a teacup pig and taco truck one day.
Andi Breitowich is a Chicago-based writer and graduate student at Northwestern Medill. She's a mass consumer of social media and cares about women's rights, holistic wellness, and non-stigmatizing reproductive care. As a former collegiate pole vaulter, she has a love for all things fitness and is currently obsessed with Peloton Tread workouts and hot yoga.
For Women: 5 Home Remedies For Vaginal Itching
Vaginal itching often happens due to hygiene issues.
Vaginal itching, sometimes called vaginitis, occurs when the vagina becomes inflamed, often also causing discharge and pain.
Vaginal itching is a signal that something is amiss in the vagina, and depending on the cause, it may warrant a trip to the healthcare provider.
There are more causes of vaginal itching like infections, estrogen hormone deficiency and chemical irritants such as creams or even condoms.
So, you shouldn't just assume that it's itchy down there just because of a lack of intimate hygiene. It is important to keep your vagina clean, but you can also try home remedies or other methods to do away with vaginal itching.
Here are simple home remedies for you:
Soaps or daily douching is not suitable for your vagina. They can throw off its natural and healthy bacterial balance. Even using the wrong soap can make itchy for you. In general, products used in the vaginal area shouldn't have any perfume in them and should be as gentle and mild as possible.
Baking soda is known for killing the bacteria candida that causes yeast infections and alleviates vaginal itch. Add 1/4 cup of baking soda to a warm bath and soak in it for 10 to 15 minutes.
Apple cider vinegar's antimicrobial properties may help to treat yeast infections. It is believed to kill strains of candida. Because of this, some people believe in soaking in a bath with apple cider vinegar for 10 to 40 minutes.
It is a great way to soothe dry skin. If your vagina is itchy because of irritated or flaky skin, soak in an oatmeal bath! Just add a cup or two of oatmeal to a warm bath and soak in it for about 20 minutes.
Use ice cubes for instant relief from vaginal itching. Place the cubes on the affected area to reduce the itching/inflammation.
Method: Wrap ice cubes in a clean towel and secure them. Apply the wrapped ice to the vagina for a few minutes. Take a break every 30/40 seconds before reapplying.
Repeat as needed until you are relieved. Rinse the affected area with cold water.
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