Vaginal rash can be uncomfortable! Try these 7 home remedies for relief

Dealing with vaginal rashes and itching that just won’t go away can be uncomfortable. These issues are often more prevalent during the summer and monsoon season but can occur at any time due to factors like skin conditions, infections, or poor hygiene. If you are dealing with it, you may notice symptoms such as irritation, a burning sensation, and sometimes pain, which can exacerbate during a period cycle. So, we listed a few best home remedies for a vaginal rash that can help alleviate discomfort and its symptoms quickly

Symptoms of vaginal rash

Vaginal rash can cause a lot of discomfort and, sometimes, pain. Your symptoms may get worse if you scratch it. Symptoms may include:

• Itching, burning, or irritation
• Pain during urination or sex
• Bumps, blisters, lesions, or sores
• Skin redness
• Inflammation
• Odour
• Discharge
• Pain in your pelvic area

What causes vaginal rash?

Here are 6 common causes that can lead to vaginal rashes, along with symptoms such as itching and irritation:

1. Infections

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the following are the most common causes of vaginitis or infection:

• Yeast infections (Candidiasis): It is caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida, leading to symptoms such as itching, rashes, redness, and a thick white discharge.
• Bacterial vaginosis (BV): BV results in an imbalance of the natural bacteria in the vagina, which can lead to symptoms such as fishy odour, discharge, and irritation.
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Infections such as herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, and human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause rashes, sores, itching, and discharge.

Also read: Yeast infection vs bacterial vaginosis: Know the differences between the vaginal infections

2. Skin conditions

Vaginal rashes could be a result of certain skin conditions as well, which includes:

• Contact dermatitis: An allergic reaction or irritation from contact with substances such as laundry detergents, fabric softeners, or synthetic fabrics. It is responsible for about 50 percent of the cases of vaginal itching in adult women and also affects children, finds a 2014 study published by BioMed Research International.
• Eczema: A chronic skin condition causing red, itchy, and inflamed skin. When it affects the genital area, it can lead to a rash and discomfort.
• Psoriasis: Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin, which can also appear in the genital area.

3. Poor hygiene

Not cleaning the genital area properly can lead to the buildup of sweat, bacteria, and other irritants, causing a rash. In fact, over-cleaning or the use of harsh soaps can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. This makes you prone to infection as well.

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4. Hormonal changes

Hormonal imbalance during periods, pregnancy, and menopause can affect the vaginal environment, increasing susceptibility to infections and skin irritations. During menopause, low estrogen levels can lead to thinning and drying of the vaginal walls, which may result in itchy and irritated skin, prone to rashes.

5. Excessive moisture

Excessive sweating in the genital area can create a warm, moist environment that promotes bacterial and fungal growth. Therefore, it is essential to maintain hygiene down there to keep the area dry and clean.

6. Harmful products

Products such as scented soaps, bubble baths, detergents, douches, and feminine sprays contain chemicals that can irritate the sensitive skin of the vaginal area. Moreover, spermicides, diaphragms, and condoms (especially those made of latex) can trigger allergic reactions or irritation. All these factors can cause various symptoms, including rashes.

7 home remedies for vaginal rash

Vaginal rashes can be uncomfortable and distressing. However, following these 7 home remedies can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing.

1. Aloe vera

Aloe vera is renowned for its soothing and healing properties, making it an excellent remedy for vaginal rashes. A study published by the Journal of Caring Sciences reveals that aloe vera is an effective remedy in reducing itching and pain and can increase the rate of healing. Moreover, it also has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects that can reduce inflammation and relieve itching and rashes.

How to use it:

• Extract fresh aloe vera gel from the leaf.
• Apply the gel directly to the affected area.
• Leave it on for about 15–20 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.
• Use it regularly to see the difference.

2. Baking Soda

Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, can help balance pH levels and reduce vaginal itching and irritation associated with vaginal rashes. As per a 2012 study published by Mycopathologia, baking soda has anti-fungal effects and can kill candida cells, the same cells that cause yeast infection. moreover, it has mild antiseptic properties that can help combat infections and itchy, dry skin prone to rashes

How to use it:

• Add 1/4 cup of baking soda to a bathtub filled with warm water.
  Stir well to dissolve.
• Soak in the bath for 15-20 minutes.
• Pat dry the vaginal area gently with a soft towel.
• Repeat once daily until symptoms ease.

3. Bath oil

Sometimes, dry and itchy skin can lead to rashes. Using bath oils such as tea tree oil or lavender oil can provide relief from vaginal rashes due to their soothing and antibacterial properties. In fact, the National Eczema Association (NEA) advises that adding gentle oils to bathwater can help moisturise the skin and reduce inflammation.

How to use it:

• Dilute a few drops of tea tree oil or lavender oil in a carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil.
• Apply the mixture to the affected area.
• Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.
• Alternatively, add a few drops of the oil to bathwater and soak for 15-20 minutes.
• Repeat it daily.

4. Coconut oil

Coconut oil is a natural moisturiser and has antimicrobial properties that can help alleviate vaginal itching and irritation, caused by rashes. A study published by the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine reveals that coconut oil moisturises your skin and is effective in treating skin infections. It forms a protective barrier on the skin, allowing it to heal while preventing further irritation.

How to use it:

• Apply a small amount of virgin coconut oil directly to the affected area.
• Gently massage it into the skin until it is absorbed.
• Leave it on overnight or throughout the day.
• Repeat daily to manage rashes.

5. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is known for its soothing properties and can help relieve itching and inflammation associated with vaginal rashes. A 2015 study published by the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology indicates that oatmeal contains compounds that reduce irritation and restore the skin’s natural barrier. Not only this, adding it to a bath can deal with skin conditions such as eczema.

How to use it:

• Grind oatmeal into a fine powder.
• Add 1 cup of oatmeal powder to a bathtub filled with warm water.
• Stir well to ensure it dissolves.
• Soak in the bath for 15–20 minutes.
• Pat dry the vaginal area gently with a soft towel.
• Repeat daily until the rash heals.

6. Cold compress

A cold compress can provide immediate relief from itching and burning sensations caused by vaginal rashes. It helps reduce inflammation and numbs the affected area temporarily.

How to use it:

• Wrap a few ice cubes in a clean cloth or use a cold gel pack.
• Place the compress gently on the affected area for 5-10 minutes.
• Remove the compress and allow the skin to rest for a few minutes.
• You can repeat this 3-4 times a day.

7. Yoghurt and Honey

Greek yoghurt is a well-known remedy for treating yeast infections. It contains probiotics that help restore the natural balance of good bacteria in the vaginal area, which can be beneficial if the rash is due to a yeast infection. Moreover, honey has antibacterial properties and can help soothe irritated skin. A 2012 study published by the Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics found yoghurt and honey remedy more effective at treating infection symptoms than over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal medication.

How to use it:

• Mix equal parts of plain yogurt and honey.
• Apply the mixture to the affected area.
• Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.
• Repeat 2-3 times a day.

Tips to get rid of vaginal rashes

• Wash the genital area with mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water. Pat dry thoroughly after washing.
• Avoid harsh chemicals or douching, as these can disrupt the natural pH balance.
  Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing to allow airflow and reduce moisture, which can irritate the skin.
• Steer clear of scented soaps, bubble baths, douches, and feminine sprays, as these can cause itching.
• Change underwear regularly to keep the vaginal clean and dry, otherwise, the risk of itching and infection is high.
• Use condoms to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can lead to rashes or irritation.
• During sexual activity, use water-based lubricants to reduce friction and irritation which may cause rashes.
• Drink plenty of water to help maintain overall skin health, including the sensitive vaginal area.

In case the symptoms of rashes such as itching and irritation persist or worsen, seek medical advice immediately to reduce the discomfort!