During your periods, your vagina may become more prone to itching, which can be a very uncomfortable sensation. Vaginal pruritus, which has both internal and external causes, is the medical term for an itchy vagina during a period. It can happen at any time during your period and, in some cases, it’s a sign of serious health issues that require an immediate diagnosis and treatment. In this article, let’s looks at some of the causes and how to treat an itchy vagina for a proper intimate hygiene.
Causes of itchy vagina
- Hormonal changes – The vaginal ecosystem is made up of a plethora of necessary bacteria and yeast, which are disrupted in their normal levels due to hormone fluctuations during your periods, resulting in an itchy vagina.
- Vaginal yeast infection–The change in vaginal pH during your period can cause an overgrowth of Candida albicans, an otherwise necessary fungus. This can result in a yeast infection in your cervix. Aside from itching, you may also experience symptoms such as burning while peeing, swelling and redness on the vulva, and a creamy white discharge.
- Bacterial vaginosis – A buildup of harmful bacteria in your vagina can occasionally be brought on by certain hormonal changes, leading to bacterial vaginosis. This can also affect your vaginal hygiene-. The main signs of this include an itchy vagina along with an uncomfortable feeling when urinating, a watery or frothy vaginal discharge, and a bad odour.
- Old blood that is still lingering – If you notice that your vagina is itchier near the end of your period, it may be because minute amounts of old blood are still present in your vagina and are irritating the area which can disrupt your vaginal hygiene.
- Trichomoniasis – It is a sexually transmitted infection that is quite prevalent (STI). Trichomonas vaginalis, a parasite, is the primary cause of this. The cervix widens more than usual during your period to allow the blood to flow freely. But this condition also makes STIs like trichomoniasis more likely. It results in an itchy vagina as well as other symptoms like pain when urinating, a yellow or green vaginal discharge, and an unpleasant odour.
- Inflammation – The body experiences increased inflammation during periods, which results in more itching than usual. This occurs as the body’s oestrogen levels decline, which are in charge of controlling inflammation.
- Reaction to synthetic pads and tampons – The vulva’s delicate skin might become irritated by the synthetic top layers and aroma added to regular pads and tampons. They could cause an allergic reaction in you that manifests as rashes and itching. Use tampons and pads with more natural ingredients, such as the Carmesi Sensitive Sanitary Pads, which contain a top sheet made of maize fibre and are specifically suited for sensitive skin, to prevent this. Additionally, cotton tampons are excellent for preventing discomfort there.
Itching during periods home remedies & treatment
When vaginal itching does arise, there are a few things you can do to control it. Itching can occasionally be managed at home. Other times, you’ll require medical attention from a professional.
- Home remedies
- Use tampons or pads made of natural materials.
- To avoid the alteration in the pH of the vagina, try using a decent intimate cleanser.
- Choose probiotic pills to encourage the development of healthy bacteria.
- Wear breathable undergarments to stop sweat from condensing and causing itching to worsen.
- Instead of bathing in hot water, use lukewarm water to protect the delicate vaginal area and maintain intimate hygiene.
- To relieve itching, mix 4-5 tbsp of baking soda with lukewarm water.
- Medicinal treatments
- If you feel itchy because of bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis, antibiotics may be able to assist.
- Yeast infections are manageable with antifungal treatment.
- Other diseases and infections that cause vaginal itching can be treated with medicated vaginal creams or steroids.
When should you see a doctor?
After your period has passed, vaginal itching typically stops, and more often than not, there is nothing to be concerned about. However, if your itchiness lasts past your period or you suspect an infection of any kind, seek advice from your healthcare provider.
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