Common during pregnancy, 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. Here is a powerful remedy to eliminate intimate itching.
Symptoms
Vaginal itching may have a range of symptoms, including:
- pain at the entrance to the vagina
- itching and pain in and around the vulva
- itching and pain inside the vagina
- pain or itching that worsens after sexual intercourse
- burning in or around the vagina
- pain when urinating
Some people also notice an increase or change in vaginal discharge.
Similarly, some infections may cause a change in the smell of vaginal discharge.
Yeast infections do not typically cause a bad smell, though some people may notice an odor that resembles that of bread, beer, or something sweet.
There are many home remedies for an itchy vagina, but the remedy you choose will depend on the cause of the itch.
Common causes
Vaginal itchiness is often due to one of the following common causes.
Yeast infection
If you have a vagina, there’s a chance that you’ll get a yeast infection at some point in your life. Other than itching, yeast infections can cause you to have a thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge.
Bacterial vaginosis
This happens when a certain kind of bacteria overgrows in the vagina, most commonly Gardnerella vaginalis.
Bacterial vaginosis is often accompanied by a fishy odor, burning during urination, and discharge that is gray, white, or green.
Vaginal dryness
This is a symptom of many conditions. It can cause your vagina to feel itchy inside. It can also cause discomfort during sex or masturbation.
Water-based lubricants can help with vaginal dryness. You can visit your doctor if it seems to be a consistent problem for you.
Exposure to irritants
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.
If you suspect your pad is irritating your skin, try a different brand, or switch to tampons or a menstrual cup.
Can we find a remedy to eliminate intimate itching?
Skin conditions
Eczema, psoriasis, and dry skin can often lead to itchiness — and can affect your pubic area and the skin around your vulva.
STIs
A number of STIs could cause vaginal itching. These include:
Strategies that may help prevent vaginal itching during pregnancy
It is a myth that bad hygiene causes vaginal infections or vaginal itching during pregnancy. Frequent washing or showers will not prevent infections. Douching and perfumed soaps may even increase the risk of some infections.
Strategies that may help prevent vaginal itching during pregnancy include:
- wearing breathable cotton underwear
- keeping the vaginal area dry by not sitting in wet bathing suits or sweaty underwear
- taking antibiotics only when necessary
- using condoms or protection against STIs during sex
- limiting sexual partners
Natural remedy to eliminate intimate itching
Cotton underwear
Cotton underwear is helpful if you have any sort of vaginal or vulvar discomfort. It is breathable, which means that it can help reduce itchy skin conditions.
Wearing 100 percent cotton underwear might prevent yeast infections, as yeast thrives in areas that aren’t well ventilated.
