Women contract vaginal yeast infections at least once in their lifetime, but it remains a hush-hush topic for many. This occurs due to the Candida Albicans, which is a fungus naturally residing inside the vagina. Whenever an overgrowth of the fungus is observed, women experience vaginal yeast infections that require vaginal swelling treatment. Though you must always consult a private gynaecologist in such cases, you can treat these conditions through home remedies till you can book an appointment.
Though vaginal yeast infections are common and do not cause permanent issues, it causes discomfort and pain. You will experience irritation, redness, itching and inflammation along with grey-white foul-smelling discharge. Vaginal yeast infections are also caused by an underlying infection, allergies, chemical skin irritants (perfumed vaginal sprays, soap and washes), deficiency of oestrogen and sexual activity.
8 Home Remedies For Vaginal Itching
- Yoghurt
Probiotics such as yoghurt defend the body against harmful organisms by restoring the good bacteria to their natural state. Thus, it balances out the system and halts the fungus overgrowth. In addition, it maintains the optimum pH balance, builds immunity and prevents the abnormal growth of yeast and bacteria in the vaginal area. Consume yoghurt, kimchi and kombucha daily. Apply homemade yoghurt on the affected areas, dip a tampon and wear it for thirty minutes every day. Wash with cool water, and do this twice a day for good results.
- Virgin coconut oil
As coconut oil has antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties, it effectively fights against yeast infections. It also prevents the growth of bacteria and fungus in the vaginal area due to its fatty acids. Also, it prevents dry and irritated skin. Gently massage with a layer of pure coconut oil, leave it on for thirty minutes and wash with cool water.
- Tea tree oil
This well-known essential oil is rich in antiviral, antimicrobial and antifungal properties. In addition, it maintains the natural bacterial growth in the vagina and soothes chafed and dry skin. However, it must always be mixed with a carrier oil (olive oil or coconut oil) due to its high potency and gently applied using a cotton ball. Also, some people might be allergic to tea tree oil, so a patch test should be conducted.
- Boric acid
This concoction is believed to treat even the most challenging yeast infections due to their antiseptic properties and must be only used for recurrent and complicated cases. Start with milder treatments, as high doses of boric can cause organ damage and death in extreme conditions.
- Apple cider vinegar
This effectively treats vaginal yeast infections due to their antifungal and antibacterial properties. In addition, due to its bioactive ingredients, it protects the vagina from infection-causing bacteria and fungus, restores the natural pH and fights toxins.
Add a spoonful of apple cider vinegar into a glass of lukewarm, drink it up, or add half a cup of apple cider vinegar into a bucket of lukewarm water and regularly wash the vaginal area to treat infections. However, never douche the vagina (especially when you have a yeast infection) as it increases the chances of more severe conditions.
- Vitamin C
It restores the natural pH balance of the vaginal area, improves immunity and prevents the yeast-causing fungus from growing due to its antimicrobial properties. An excellent way to increase the intake of Vitamin C is by consuming cranberry juice, which prevents the formation of Candida Albicans and urinary tract infections. Though it has not been proven yet, drinking cranberry juice prevents infection due to its high content of Vitamin C.
- Oregano oil
Oregano oil contains carvacrol and thymol, antifungal compounds that prevent the growth of Candida Albicans. Like most suppositories, they can be inserted directly inside the vagina or applied to a tampon pre-use. As with the majority of essential oils, you must use oregano oil with a carrier oil for vaginal pain treatment.
- Aloe vera gel
Fresh aloe vera gel contains moisturising and soothing properties that provide instant relief from inflamed, irritated and itching skin. It also has antimicrobial properties, which restricts the growth of infection-causing fungi or bacteria. Apply a layer of freshly extracted aloe vera gel to the affected area for a cooling sensation and relieving inflammation.
Though all of them are natural ingredients, we must exercise caution when it comes to treating anything around the vaginal area. If the symptoms do not improve in a couple of days, visit a private gynaecologist. If you are looking for guidance on vaginal itching treatment, contact us at Well Women Clinic.
