A yeast infection, chemical irritants, stress, sexually transmitted diseases or menopause could be factors that influence the development of vaginal itching. With so many causes of vaginal itching, it's hard to determine the exact cause without proper testing. The method of treatment will depend upon the cause. Yogurt may be a helpful home remedy. However, do not attempt to treat yourself without first getting a proper diagnosis from your physician and discussing this treatment option.
Dairy
Dairy products, such as yogurt, are recommended for yeast infections, according to Drugs.com. Not just any yogurt will suffice. The yogurt needs to have Lactobacillus acidophilus, or L. acidophilus, in order to help treat a yeast infection. L. acidophilus is considered a friendly bacterial species, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This type of bacteria helps protect you from bad bacteria that can cause disease or infection. L. acidophilus is considered a probiotic, which helps restore the healthy balance of bacteria.
Lactobacillus acidophilus
Lactobacillus acidophilus is recommended by the University of Maryland Medical Center, MedlinePlus and Drugs.com to help treat vaginal itching. L. acidophilus suppositories may also help treat bacterial vaginosis in addition to consuming yogurt with L. acidophilus. Do not use suppositories to treat any type of infection without first consulting your physician. Your physician may recommend taking L. acidophilus tablets while you are on antibiotics to help prevent developing a yeast infection.
Other Uses
L. acidophilus may also help treat or improve other health conditions such as lowering the risk of pollen allergies, treating chronic constipation, treating the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome and treating high cholesterol. Ongoing research is being conducted to ensure whether L. acidophilus actually helps improve these conditions and many more.
Considerations
If you suffer from vaginal itching due to yeast infections, limit your sugar intake as sugar promotes the growth of yeast, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Avoid douching and using feminine hygiene products such as tampons, bubble bath, perfumed or dyed toiletries and feminine hygiene sprays as they may worsen vaginal itching or cause additional irritation. Avoid wearing damp clothes or wet swimming suits for prolonged periods as the moisture can also contribute to the growth of yeast. Do not attempt to self-diagnose or self-treat yourself as you could make matters worse. You may actually have something more serious such as a sexually transmitted disease.
References
- American Pregnancy Association: Yeast Infections During Pregnancy; April 2006
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vaginal Yeast Infection; Linda Vorvick, M.D.; Nov. 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Lactobacillus Acidophilus; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; June 2009
- MedlinePlus: Vaginal Itching; Oct. 2009
- Drugs.com: Lactobacillus Acidophilus Medical Facts; Dec. 2010
