The Scourge of Vaginal Itching

Featured by Michelle Thelen, posted in Women's Health

What is the cause of vaginal itching?

There are many reasons women develop itching. Here is a summary of quick and easy ways to address this problem:

  • Infection, bacterial or parasitic. If you have a discharge as well as chronic and persistent itching, more than likely there is some type of infection going on. You can purchase Monistat-1 at the drugstore, a one-day vaginal cream that you insert into the vagina with a tampon-like tube. Or you can go to your doctor to get a prescription for Nystatin, another antifungal treatment for yeast infection. Note: Studies show Monistat and Nystatin are equally as effective, and Monistat is cheaper and more readily available. However, in some cases, Nystatin may be needed if the strain of candida is less common.
  • Some strains of candida are not as commonly encountered, such as Candida glabrata or Candida tropicalis. Boric acid suppositories are effective in most cases to address stubborn strains. If the infection does not resolve using OTC or prescribed medications, try boric acid suppositories
  • Switch to all-natural, fragrance-free soaps and detergents. Many commercial soaps and cleansers contain artificial ingredients such as fragrances, colors, and parabens. In order to protect the delicate tissues of the vagina and vulva, shop online or at a local health food store and purchase soaps made with coconut or olive oil and scented with essential oils.
  • Wear cotton underwear. Cotton is breathable. Polyester and synthetic fibers trap oxygen allowing bacteria to grow.
  • Take probiotics. Strains of probiotics needed to restore gut health and protect the flora of the intestines include the genus Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Bacillus or Saccharomyces boulardii. I sell an excellent one that is freeze-dried making it easy to store and use.
  • Improve gut health. If vaginal itching is persistent and/or you suffer from recurrent yeast infection, this is a sign that the balance of good vs bad bacteria in the gastrointestinal system is not well regulated. Using alkaline drinks such as Kombucha tea can help, but you may also need to work on cutting back sugars and carbohydrates as these are triggers for overgrowth of the bad bacteria. I offer some specific dietary suggestions and herbal remedies using Asian medicine principles that can help significantly to restore a better balance.
  • Acupuncture and Herbs. Acupuncture treatment is effective to reduce itching, balance hormones, and help stabilize the nervous system. Herbal remedies can help get to the root of the problem by improving pelvic circulation, easing dryness, improving skin texture, and balancing hormones.

I have written a more in-depth article about the causes and treatments for vaginal itching on HubPages: https://hubpages.com/health/Ways-To-Reduce-Vaginal-Itching

REFERENCES

Nystatin vs. Miconazole Nitrate: In vitro testing of Candida albicans killing over time. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.hmpgloballearningnetwork.com/site/wounds/laboratory-research/nystatin-vs-miconazole-nitrate-vitro-testing-candida-albicans