June 1, 2009

Causes Of Vaginal Irritation And Itching

Posted in Category : Women's Health

An irritation or itching in the vagina can be quite an uncomfortable and embarrassing situation. More often than not, irritation in the vagina is caused due to your private parts being clothed by more than one layer of cloth for a prolonged period of time. This facilitates the breeding of bacteria in and around the genital area which eventually causes the irritation and itching. It is definitely not something to be ignored since it can rapidly deteriorate into a condition of bacterial vaginosis or even trichomoniasis. In some cases, the irritation or itching could just be your body’s reaction to certain chemicals in your soap, deodorant etc. In women approaching menopause, irritation in the vagina is most often an indication of thinning vaginal tissues. There are a number of ways to treat the irritation by using simple home remedies.

The simplest cure is a salt bath. Dissolve half a cup of common table salt in a tub of warm water. Now soak in the tub for at least twenty minutes. Repeat this twice a day and you will see that there is a reduction in the irritation within a couple of days. Maintaining hygiene around your genital area is a prerequisite. Frequently wash and dry your genital area. Apple cider vinegar too is a recommended remedy to fight irritation in the vagina. Add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to a glass of hot water. Also add in a teaspoon or two of honey. Mix it well and drink it first thing in the morning. This home remedy too produces visible relief in a span of days. Avoid using talcum powder around your genital area. Your diet too plays an important role. Sugar promotes yeast and bacterial growth. Hence it would be wise to avoid consuming it for the duration of the irritation. Also increase your intake of vitamin C on a daily basis. You could go in for foods rich in vitamin C or even vitamin C pills, ensuring you consume at least 500 milligrams twice a day. Aloe Vera juice is another excellent remedy. Mix a teaspoon or two of honey to two tablespoons of freshly extracted Aloe Vera juice and drink it three times a day.

Though douching is an often recommended remedy, research suggests that instead of helping, douching may actually worsen the affliction. Douching sometimes drives infectious material up the cervix resulting in pelvic inflammatory disease. If the irritation persists after three days, it is best to consult a gynecologist.