Vaginal itching can increase in winter. Find some relief using these tips

Yet, if an unexpected itch arises around the vagina out of the blue, many of us are at a loss as to what to do. We struggle to identify what has caused the sudden vaginal itching and irritation, don’t we? If you can identify with this, let us assure you that you are not alone!

Many things can cause itching and irritation of the vagina- hormonal changes, chemical sensitivity, and infections are all common culprits. However, many women immediately attribute the itching to a bout of vaginal thrush and immediately seek over-the-counter thrush creams for relief. However, if you are experiencing sudden vaginal itching during the winter season, the season itself could be one of the reasons!

How can the winter season cause vaginal itching?

It’s true that winter may lead to mild itching. Wonder why? Just as your entire body is more susceptible to dryness and itch, so is your vaginal area. The causes can include collective dryness, itching, cold winter air, and decreased water intake. And this increased vaginal itching can even impact women’s sex lives.

Dr Swati Gaikwad, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Pune, suggests, “Itching may also be a cause of yeast infection, STI or any serious condition. Therefore, you need to speak to the doctor and determine the right cause of itching down there.” 

Dr Gaikwad also shared some ways to stop vaginal itching with HealthShots. Here they are:

1. Check your soap

Using soap loaded with chemicals down there? It can lead to itchiness. Thus, you will have to avoid using soaps with fragrances, as they can cause burning and irritation. Speak to the doctor about this. Avoid using any soap or intimate washes down there. The vagina is a self-cleaning organ. So, use only water to clean the vagina, and keep itching at bay.

Also, read: This is why vaginal itching gets worse at night

2. Sanitary napkins

Are you using sanitary pads? Then, you need to rethink while using them. Yes, they can lead to vaginal itching. Some women may experience itching down there during their menses only. So, here the pad can be the reason as some pads contain perfumes that irritate the skin. Use unscented pads as per the doctor’s suggestion.

3. Don’t use a razor down there

You should never use a razor on your vaginal skin especially when you’re experiencing vaginal issues. Otherwise, there are high chances of you getting a hair infection called skin folliculitis. 

4. Take a sitz bath

A hot sitz bath can help you to relax and get rid of itching down there. You can even add Epsom salt to the water. It can really be soothing and give you that much-needed relief.

Also, read: Itchy vagina? Make note of these home remedies to soothe vaginal itching and burning

5. Use cotton underwear

Certain fabrics can lead to itchiness and irritation. So, be wiser and choose cotton undergarments that are skin-friendly. Try to change your underwear from time to time.

6. Moisturise your vagina

It might sound strange but you need to moisturize your vagina regularly. That area is very delicate and to prevent dryness, you can use coconut oil or any other regular moisturizer that comes without fragrance. 

Keep in mind ladies, to stop the vaginal itching and irritation, you need to maintain proper hygiene down there!

So follow these tips to maintain hygiene down there in winter:

1. Keep the underwear dry

If you do not wipe the vagina after urinating, then the underwear can get wet and lead to a bad odour. This can raise the risk of vaginal infections. Hence, it is always recommended to wipe the area using toilet paper or a soft cloth to make sure that the underwear is dry.

Also, read: Ditch these 5 practices ASAP to avoid hampering your vaginal health

2. Don’t use soap down there

Did you know that using any soap without taking a doctor’s advice can impact the healthy balance of the bacteria in the vagina and change the pH in the vaginal region. This is so because the soaps contain chemicals such as glycerol, perfumes, and antiseptics which can do more harm than good.

3. Change sanitary pads frequently

Irrespective of heavy or normal flow, women should see to it that they change the sanitary pads after every 4-6 hours without fail. This can lower the chances of irritation, itching, and infections.

4. Say NO to douching

Are you aware? Douching involves the use of certain chemicals which disrupt the vaginal pH. So, avoid it.

So ladies, this winter protect your vagina from itching with these tips!