4 Ways to Prevent Vaginal Itching

1. Keep the Vaginal Area Clean

To prevent vaginal itching, also called vaginitis, make sure you're keeping your vaginal area clean and dry. However, douching can increase vaginal itching since it washes away normal lubricants and bacteria. Wipe or wash from the front to the back after urinating and bowel movements. In the shower, use a plain, scent-free soap. You should also avoid scented vaginal products, scented toilet paper and bubble bath. If you work out, make sure you're wearing cotton underwear and cotton clothes so sweat doesn't sit close to the vaginal area.

2. Treat Vaginal Yeast Infections

One of the biggest culprits of vaginal itching is yeast infections. Treat yeast infections with over the counter treatments such as Monistat. If over the counter treatments aren't working, talk to your care provider for stronger treatments. Other ways to treat vaginal yeast infections include losing weight if you're overweight, as yeast can thrive in folds of skin, especially skin that stays damp. In addition, decrease the amount of sugar you eat; yeast thrives in people who eat a great deal of sugar. If you have diabetes, make sure you're keeping your blood sugar under control. You should also change out of wet clothes and bathing suits immediately since yeast thrives in warm, damp environments. Finally, consider eating a serving of yogurt with live cultures every day to keep yeast infections at bay. Antibiotics can also increase the chance of getting a vaginal yeast infection so be on the lookout if you're taking antibiotics.

3. Vaginal Itching and Menopause

It's not uncommon during menopause to notice an increase in vaginal itching. This has to do with changes in hormone levels. The vaginal area gets drier during menopause, and this leads to itching. Estrogen creams or tablets for the vaginal area can help prevent vaginal itching during menopause.

4. Avoid STDS by Wearing a Condom

Often an STD called trichomonas causes vaginal itching. Trichomonas is a protozoa passed from one sexual partner to another. Treatment for trichomonas is easy, but your care provider will need to prescribe the treatment. Other STDs that can cause vaginal itching include herpes and genital warts. Use a condom when having sex to prevent STD transmission. If you suspect your vaginal itching is caused by an STD, contact your care provider for a diagnosis and treatment plans.