Feminine Health Reviews Expert Reviews of Women's Products.
Vaginal itching is an uncomfortable and sometimes painful symptom that often occurs due to irritating substances, infections, or menopause. It may also occur as a result of certain skin disorders or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). In rare cases, vaginal itching might develop due to stress or vulvar cancer.
Most vaginal itching isn’t a cause for concern. However, you should contact your doctor or gynecologist if the itching is severe or if you suspect you have an underlying condition. Your doctor can determine the cause of your vaginal itching through an examination and testing. They’ll also be able to recommend appropriate treatments for this uncomfortable symptom.
Vaginal itch can be embarrassing and so we’ve noticed our patients are often shy or embarrassed about acknowledging it. The good news is that we’ll typically notice any signs of redness, irritation, or unusual odor or discharge during your annual exam. However, several months can be a long time to wait.
If you are experiencing vaginal itch – or inexplicable discomfort in your genitals – please don’t hesitate to give Overlake OB/GYN a call so we can figure out what’s going on and help you find a solution. In the meantime, here are 5 of the most common reasons women experience itchy and/or burning discomfort in their labia, vulva and/or vagina.
Sleep without Underwear- So your vagina is again exposed to the healthy clean air and will be less likely to sweat in the night. Going forward, you may also want to wear loose fitting clothing in the day time. Try to avoid the following fabrics: Lycra/Spandex, polyester, lace, thongs, tights or anything else that causes your vagina to become hot and itchy. Until you have got your vaginal itch under control it is best to wear organic cotton lingerie (or no lingerie at all) and over the top of this cotton skirts, shorts or trousers.
Avoid Sugar- If the cause of your chronic itching, or reoccurring itching is due to a yeast infection (thrush), then avoiding sugar in your diet will be a step in the right direction to helping to reducing the levels of yeast present. As yeast, specifically Candida Albicans, thrives on sugar. Some people have to avoid fruit sugar also and adhere to a strict Anti-Candida diet for several months, but this is only in extreme cases.
Apple Cider Vinegar Baths – Once a day, immerse your vagina in a shallow water bath (usually referred to as a ‘sitz’ bath) with ½ cup of organic, raw apple cider vinegar. Keep your legs spread wide apart at all times during the sitz bath, so the water can flow freely around your vaginal region. If you do not have a bath, then try using a bath intended for a baby. Apple cider baths have had great results for many women, and experts believe it is due to apple cider being able to inhibit the growth of yeast by killing them with its strong acidic pH level.
