10 Home Remedies for Vaginal Itching that Are Safe to Use

Itching in the vaginal area can be a symptom of numerous conditions. It may be triggered by vaginal dryness or chemical irritants, such as those found in scented soaps. Other causes of itching include yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and others.

There are so many home remedies for vaginal itching, but the remedy you choose will depend on the underlying cause of the itch.

Common causes

Frequently, vaginal itchiness results from one of the following common causes.

Yeast infection

There is a chance that you will develop a yeast infection at some point in your life if you have a vagina. In addition to itching, yeast infections can cause a discharge that resembles cottage cheese and is thick and white.

Bacterial vaginosis

This occurs when a specific type of bacteria, most commonly Gardnerella vaginalis, overgrows in the vagina.

Bacterial vaginosis is frequently accompanied by a fishy odor, burning when urinating, and gray, white, or green discharge.

Vaginal dryness

This is a symptom of numerous diseases. It can make the inside of your vagina feel itchy. Additionally, it can cause discomfort during sexual activity or masturbation.

Lubricants formulated with water can alleviate vaginal dryness. If it appears to be a persistent issue for you, you can consult a doctor.

Exposure to irritants

Chemicals in pads, intimate washes, sprays, and other products can irritate the skin and cause vaginal itching. It is advised that you avoid using anything other than water to clean your vulva.

If you suspect that your pad is irritating your skin, switch to tampons or a menstrual cup, or try a different brand.

Skin disorders

Eczema, psoriasis, and dry skin can frequently cause itching in the pubic region and the skin surrounding the vulva.

STIs

Several STIs may cause vaginal itching. These consist of:

chlamydia
genital warts
gonorrhea
genital herpes
trichomoniasis
pubic lice

If you suspect that you have one of the above sexually transmitted infections, consult your doctor.

The most effective home remedies for vaginal itch

Baking soda bath

Baking soda baths have the potential to treat yeast infections and itchy skin conditions.

A 2012 study found that baking soda has antifungal properties. According to a 2014 study, baking soda kills Candida cells, which are the same cells that cause yeast infections.

To treat eczema, the National Eczema Foundation suggests adding 1/4 cup of baking soda to your bath or creating a paste and applying it to your skin.

According to a 2005 study, baking soda baths are also an effective treatment for psoriasis.

Try a bath with baking soda

Dissolve between 1/4 and 2 cups of baking soda in your bath.
Soak for between 10 and 40 minutes.

Greek yogurt

A common home remedy for yeast infections is Greek yogurt.

Yogurt containing probiotics encourages the growth of “good” bacteria in the vagina. This bacteria can eliminate certain types of yeast and keep your vagina healthy.

A study conducted in 2012 examined 129 pregnant women with yeast infections. The researchers administered yogurt and honey to 82 participants and an over-the-counter antifungal cream to 47 participants. The study found that a mixture of honey and yogurt was more effective than over-the-counter antifungal medication in treating vaginal yeast infections.

The same conclusion was reached in a 2015 study involving 70 non-pregnant women: yogurt and honey were more effective than commercial antifungal cream.

Cotton underwear

If you are experiencing vaginal or vulvar discomfort, cotton underwear can help. Because cotton underwear is breathable, it can help alleviate itchy skin conditions.

Yeast thrives in poorly ventilated areas, so wearing underwear made of 100 percent cotton could prevent yeast infections.

Bath in apple cider vinegar

If you search online for ways to relieve vaginal itching, you’ll likely find apple cider vinegar listed as a panacea.

Many people believe that adding apple cider vinegar to your bath can soothe a yeast infection. Additionally, it is a common remedy for itchy skin.

Sadly, there is little evidence to support this assertion. Nonetheless, it is an inexpensive remedy with no known side effects that can be tried.

Try a bath with apple cider vinegar

Add a half cup of apple cider vinegar to your bath water.
Soak for between 10 and 40 minutes.

Probiotic supplements

Bacteria are necessary for vaginal health, and probiotics can increase “good” bacteria in the vagina.

Probiotic supplements, such as capsules and tonics, are available at local pharmacies, health food stores, and online. These promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the vaginal and digestive tracts.

These can also be used as preventative measures. Your physician may recommend probiotics when prescribing antibiotics.

Coconut oil

A 2016 study demonstrated that coconut oil can kill the yeast infection-causing Candida albicans. However, this study was conducted in a laboratory, and there is insufficient evidence to confirm its effectiveness in humans.

Consider: coconut oil

You can directly insert coconut oil into your vagina.
Use only pure, high-quality coconut oil.
Wear a pad if you attempt this remedy, as it may stain your clothing otherwise.

Antifungal cream

If a yeast infection is causing you discomfort, there are numerous antifungal creams available over-the-counter that can provide relief. They eliminate the yeast, which alleviates the itching. They are also available as vaginal suppositories that are inserted into the vagina.

It is best to wear a pantyliner if you use an antifungal cream or suppository in your vagina.

Try these items.

One-Day Combination Pack of Monistat
Basic Care Miconazole 7 Nitrate Vaginal Cream

Cortisone ointment

After shaving pubic hair, cortisone cream may be your best option if you experience itching. Additionally, this can be utilized to treat eczema, allergic skin conditions, and certain rashes. It reduces and soothes the itch.

Cortisone cream should never be applied within the vagina, but it can be applied to the skin where pubic hair grows outside the vagina.

Probiotic diet

Similarly to taking probiotic supplements, consuming probiotic-containing foods can promote the growth of “healthy” bacteria in the vagina and gastrointestinal tract. This is essential for your vaginal and digestive health.

Probiotic foods consist of:

yogurt
kombucha
kimchi
sauerkraut
miso

If you have a yeast infection, the foods listed above can help your body combat it.

Hygiene

Good vaginal hygiene can prevent and alleviate vaginal itching.

Sometimes, less is more when it comes to vaginal and vulvar cleansing. Your vagina cleans itself, so you only need to wash the exterior of your vagina, known as the vulva, with warm water.

Do not use soaps, gels, or cleansers with fragrances. Additionally, you should avoid feminine hygiene and intimate cleansing products. Vaginal douching should only be performed if prescribed by a physician.

Actually, douching and over-washing your vagina and vulva can cause itching. Soaps and fragrances can cause vaginal irritation, allergic reactions, and infections.

When to see a physician

Although vaginal itching is frequently treatable with home remedies, you may need to see a doctor if you experience certain symptoms. These symptoms consist of:

ache or burning during sexual activity or urination
discomfort in the genital or pelvic region
genital inflammation or redness
blisters or strange spots on your vulva
abnormal vaginal discharge, especially green, yellow, or gray discharge
A discharge that resembles cottage cheese in appearance or texture.
a foul odor

Typically, your physician will inquire about your symptoms and review your medical history. Your vulva and vagina may be examined during a pelvic examination.

Objects to avoid

Regarding the treatment of vaginal itching, there is an abundance of unreliable information on the internet. Some treatments are inferior to others. Here are three things you should never do.

Douches and feminine hygiene sprays

Numerous feminine hygiene sprays contain fragrances and ingredients that can aggravate itching and inflammation of the vaginal and genital area’s delicate skin.

Most physicians also advise against doucheing. A healthy vagina contains the proper balance of vaginal flora (living bacteria in the vagina) and natural acidity.

Parfumed laundry detergents

Perfumes and synthetic substances are frequent causes of genital itching. Examine the ingredients in your laundry soap and bath soap. If it contains unrecognizable ingredients, avoid this brand.

The Environmental Working Group provides a list of allergens and other chemicals in specific soap brands (among many other consumer products).

Talcum powder

In the not too distant past, talcum powder was believed to be a miracle product for removing moisture from inaccessible areas.

It was utilized to diaper infants and treat vaginal itching. This article explains that after years of use, it was discovered to be linked to ovarian cancer.

If you do not already have an OB-GYN, the Healthline FindCare tool can connect you with local physicians.

Conclusion:

There are numerous effective home remedies for vaginal itching, including Greek yogurt and coconut oil. Some of these treatments may be more effective than others. Avoid practices such as douching and using talcum powder.

Consult a physician if you have any unusual or unexplained symptoms or if you want to know how to stop vaginal itching.