Vaginal itching: possible causes and natural solutions

He vaginal itching It is something very common, it is believed that it affects 3 out of 4 women at some point in your life. Although in most cases it’s not seriousIt can be extremely annoying. There are many causes that can be behind vaginal itching, from an infection to contact with an irritating substance, and find out what causes it It is the first step to find a solution.

What is vaginal itching?

He vaginal itching is the result of a infectious or non-infectious inflammation of the vaginal mucosa, often with inflammation of the vulva. Symptoms can also include irritation, burning, redness, and sometimes pain with intercourse (dyspareunia).

By vaginal itching we mean itching that affects the vulva (the external part of the genitalia and includes the labia majora, labia minora, and clitoris), the vagina (the inner part of the vulva) or both.

Vaginal itching due to vaginal infections

The fungus infection Candida albicans (thrush) It is the main responsible for vaginal itching.

The yeast infection symptomsin addition to vaginal itching, include changes in vaginal discharge (usually more abundant, thick and whitish), reddening of the skin lining the vagina, and pain or burning when urinating or having sex.

Some factors can favor the appearance of candidiasis such as stressbe pregnantto have taken antibiotics recently (since they alter the vaginal microbiota), having hormonal imbalances either diabetes not controlled.

Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia, genital warts, gonorrhea, genital herpes or crabs (although they are not transmitted exclusively sexually) can also cause vaginal itching.

On the other hand, the bacterial vaginosis is not strictly a vaginal infection, but a dysbiosis or alteration of the vaginal microbiota which leads to the overgrowth of certain microorganisms.

Vaginal itching due to allergies or irritations

Many chemical substances found in everyday products that come into contact with the vagina can cause allergies or irritations.

In addition to vaginal itching, there are often other symptoms such as itching, redness, or pain.

Some of the products that can cause allergies are:

Bath gels or soaps. Creams or lotions. Underwear. Scented toilet paper. Condoms. Spermicides. Tampons or pads. Sex toys.

Vaginal itching due to vaginal dryness

The main cause is the arrival of menopause. The decrease in the levels of hormones (mainly estrogens) causes the tissues to thin and can lead to vaginal dryness.

It can also be due to certain diseases such as lichen scleroatrophic or to treatments such as radiotherapy.

Home remedies to avoid vaginal itching

The main solution to eliminate vaginal itching is to find and solve the cause that causes it. However, some natural remedies can help you relieve itching:

The chamomile relieves itching and inflammation and is especially useful if you have vaginal dryness. You can apply a warm chamomile infusion with gauze or cotton externally. aloe vera has properties antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory and it is an excellent natural remedy to relieve vaginal itching. You can apply a small amount of aloe vera gel to the affected area or make your own soothing remedy with vegetable oils, essential oils, and aloe vera gel. plain unsweetened yogurt contains beneficial bacteria that help restore the bacterial balance in the vagina. Consuming it regularly is a good option to maintain a healthy balance of vaginal flora.

Also keep these tips in mind prevent the appearance of vaginal itching:

Use warm water and a fragrance-free soft gel to clean the vaginal area.Use cotton underwear and change it every day.Avoid practices such as douching or introduce water inside the vagina, since it destroys the vaginal flora. Always wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from feces from reaching the vulvovaginal area.Change out of wet or damp underwear immediately after bathing or exercising. Use barrier measures such as preservative when you have sex to avoid STIs.