How to alleviate vaginal itching in menopause
How to alleviate vaginal itching in menopause

HOME

Topics About:
Vaginal Dryness

What is vaginal dryness?
Symptoms
Risk factors
Estrogenic causes
Other hormonal causes
Other causes

Articles About:
Vaginal Dryness

General
How to alleviate vaginal itching in menopause

How to alleviate vaginal itching in menopause

vaginal dryness lubricantVaginal dryness is one of the many menopausal symptoms that can cause discomfort. It affects approximately 40% of women who are going through the transitional phase, which sees them move from reproductive to non-reproductive. Many people only associate the inconvenience of vaginal dryness with painful sexual intercourse, but unfortunately, this symptom can cause distress in other ways too; it can make the vaginal area itch, sting, burn, or swell, which can cause suffering throughout the whole day. Read on to learn how you can alleviate this unnecessary discomfort.

How can I alleviate vaginal itching?

Itching is one of the main characteristics of vaginal dryness to which many women want to find a quick and effective treatment. The discomfort can make a daily routine difficult, and quite often women become embarrassed and distressed with the situation. However, it shouldn’t be something you just put up with because you think there is no solution or because you don’t want to talk to your doctor about it. Learn how to alleviate the problem and regain a healthy and happy vagina.

Use creams

vaginal-dryness-treated-with-yam-extract-and-vitamin-e2There are creams available on the market that can relieve vaginal itching. Make sure you purchase a cream that is specifically for vaginal irritation and apply as the instructions suggest.

Vaginal suppositories

An alternative way to treat internal itching is with suppositories which can be purchased over-the-counter.

Consider different underwear & clothing

Tight clothing or underwear can cause further discomfort. Instead wear clothing that is loose in the crotch area and wear cotton underwear because nylon can decrease the airflow to the vaginal area.

Practice good hygiene

vaginal dryness relievingKeep the vaginal area clean and after a bowel movement make sure you wipe from front to back so that no bacteria from the anus can enter the vagina.

Change cleaning products

Some bath soaps and cleaning detergents will cause further irritation to the vaginal area so only use fragrance-free products.

Take warm baths

Taking baths can help relieve some of the irritation. Adding baking soda is also thought to help because it lowers the vaginal PH level which has been attributed to the itching in the first place.

Don’t douche

Douching only worsens the condition, so avoid it altogether.

As well as using the suggestions listed above it is important you try to deal with the root problem of vaginal dryness. Vaginal dryness is caused by a hormonal imbalance during menopause which can be resolved by leading a healthy lifestyle. Eat a well-balanced diet, exercise daily, avoid excess consumption of caffeine and alcohol, find time to de-stress, and stay hydrated.

More information about vaginal dryness

Itching is just one of the signs of vaginal dryness. Unfortunately, vaginal dryness can cause problems for your sex life because intercourse can become very painful. Start making changes to your lifestyle, and talk to your doctor if you require advice about alternative treatment options. For more information about why you are suffering with this symptom and how to treat it, follow this link.

Other Related Articles:
Vaginal Dryness Help
Vaginal dryness in post menopausal women
Lubricants for vaginal dryness
Vaginal Dryness Intercourse

Sources:
  • "Vaginal Dryness". Mayo Clinic Health Resource. 2007.
  • "Vulvovaginal Symptoms". The Changing Body: Menopause Handbook. www.menopause.org.
  • Love, Susan M.D. Menopause and Hormone Book. New York: Three Rivers Press, 2003.