Chemical irritants, such as detergents, contraceptives and feminine sprays, as well as hormonal changes that occur with menopause, and stress can cause feminine itching, according to MedlinePlus. Other factors that can cause this itching include vaginitis, or inflammation of the vagina and vulva, vaginal yeast infections and other infections such as sexually transmitted diseases. The itching may accompany burning, tingling and irritation of the skin; the cure depends on the cause of the itching.
Drug-Based Cures
If the itching is caused by a bacterial infection or sexually transmitted disease, a physician may prescribe antibiotics in addition to a topical steroid cream for the itch. For yeast infections, a doctor may prescribe an antifungal cream or suggest an over-the-counter anti-fungal cream with triconazole. For menopause-related itching, a doctor may prescribe a vaginal estrogen cream, as well as vaginal moistening suppositories or ointments. An over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can relieve the burning, itching and swelling associated with environmental irritants.
Lifestyle-Based Cures
Simple lifestyle adjustments can help prevent feminine itching. Avoid products containing perfumes and dyes, specifically in toilet paper, soaps and detergents, advises MedlinePlus. You should also avoid feminine hygiene sprays and douches, which can irritate the skin and disrupt vaginal pH levels. Remove wet clothing, such as bathing suits and exercise gear, as soon as possible and keep the vaginal area clean and dry. Wear cotton underwear and avoid synthetic materials and tight clothing, which prevent proper air flow. MedlinePlus also notes that since women with diabetes are more prone to yeast infections, these patients should keep their blood sugar levels in check. Women taking antibiotics are also more prone to vaginal yeast infections because the antibiotics kill both the good and bad bacteria in the body; the good bacteria keep yeast in check. When taking antibiotics, eat plain, unsweetened yogurt to replace the beneficial bacteria and prevent yeast infections.
Herbal Cures
Try a sitz bath of plain yogurt and spring water with German chamomile, lavender and tea tree essential oils, recommends Valerie Ann Worwood, author of the "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy." Alternatively, you can use geranium, marjoram and patchouli oils. Linda B. White, M.D., author of "The Herbal Drug Store" recommends eating garlic for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. She also recommends drinking tea made from echinacea root, Oregon grape root or goldenseal.
References
- "The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy"; Valerie Ann Worwood;1991
- Medline Plus: Vaginal Itching
- "The Herbal Drug Store";Linda B. White, M.D. and Steven Foster;2000
