Home Remedies To End Vaginal Itching And Dryness Safely, Expert Weighs In

Experiencing vaginal itching can be incredibly bothersome, but it doesn't always indicate an infection. What's even more frustrating is not knowing the root cause of the itching. While vaginal itching can sometimes signal serious issues such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or vulvar cancer, it's often caused by less concerning factors like irritants or hormonal fluctuations. We reached out to Dr. Madhu Juneja, Director of OBGYN and Gynaecology at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Pune, Kalyani Nagar, who shared some home remedies for addressing vaginal itching and dryness.

What Causes Vaginal Dryness And Itching

As per Dr. Madhu Juneja, vaginal dryness and vaginal itchiness can stem from various factors:

• Hormonal Shifts: Changes in oestrogen levels, notably during menopause, breastfeeding, childbirth, or perimenopause, may result in reduced vaginal lubrication.
• Medication Effects: Certain drugs like hormonal contraceptives, antihistamines, antidepressants, and chemotherapy medications can disrupt natural vaginal moisture levels.
• Health Conditions: Conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome, autoimmune disorders, diabetes, vaginal infections, and hormonal imbalances can affect vaginal lubrication.
• Psychological Influences: Stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues can impact sexual arousal and vaginal moisture.
• Menstrual Cycle Variations: Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can affect vaginal moisture levels, leading to dryness before or after menstruation.
• Irritants: Harsh soaps, douches, scented feminine hygiene products, and certain laundry detergents can irritate vaginal tissue and disturb moisture balance.
• Ageing Effects: With age, declining oestrogen levels and changes in vaginal tissue elasticity contribute to increased vaginal dryness.
• Lifestyle Choices: Factors like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, dehydration, and insufficient lubrication during sexual activity can exacerbate vaginal dryness.

Home Remedies For Vaginal Dryness And Itching

Vaginal dryness and itchiness can be uncomfortable but Dr. Madhu Juneja suggests steps you can take at home to address these symptoms and promote vaginal health. Here are some effective home remedies:

• Maintain Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, as dehydration can contribute to vaginal dryness. Adequate hydration helps maintain moisture levels in the body, including vaginal tissues.
• Incorporate Healthy Fats: Include foods rich in healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, and seeds, in your diet. These fats support hormonal balance, crucial for vaginal health and moisture.
• Increase Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Boost your intake of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts. These fats can help reduce inflammation and support vaginal lubrication.
• Consume Probiotics: Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt into your diet or take probiotic supplements. Probiotics help maintain a healthy balance of good bacteria in the body, including vaginal flora, reducing itching and irritation.
• Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of harsh soaps, perfumes, and douches that can disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina, leading to dryness and irritation.
• Use Coconut Oil: Coconut oil serves as a natural lubricant that can moisturise the vaginal area. Apply a small amount externally for relief from dryness and itching.
• Choose Cotton Underwear: Opt for breathable cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothing to allow air circulation around the vaginal area, reducing moisture and irritation.
• Practise Proper Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene practises, but avoid over-washing the vaginal area with harsh soaps. Use mild, unscented cleansers specifically formulated for intimate areas to avoid irritation.

It's crucial to recognise that if symptoms persist or worsen despite trying home remedies, seeking guidance from a healthcare professional is advisable. Persistent vaginal dryness and itchiness may indicate underlying conditions such as hormonal imbalances or infections that necessitate medical attention. Prioritise your health and seek professional advice when needed.

They can conduct a thorough evaluation to identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment options to alleviate dryness and enhance vaginal health.

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