Relief for Vaginal Irritation Itching and Swelling

Vaginal irritation, itching and swelling are symptoms that many women encounter. There are a number of medications, creams, antibiotics and home remedies that can be utilized, to gain relief from the above. If you are experiencing vaginal irritation, itching and swelling for an extended period of time or it's reoccurring, contact your physician as it could be symptomatic of another ailment.

Significance

• In many cases, vaginal irritation can be caused by irritants from fabrics as well as ingredients in beauty and feminine care products (such as soaps, body washes, feminine spray, bath bubbles and salts). The chemicals in these can aggravate the skin. Such symptoms may also manifest when a woman is undergoing an excessive amount of stress, has a weekend immune system caused by another illness, or is going through menopause.

Identification

• Vaginal irritation, itching and swelling often serve as an indication of a yeast infection. Yeast infections are usually caused by a species of the bacteria called Candida. The presence of bacteria and Candida in the body is normal; collectively they work to deliver a healthy balance of the microorganisms. The problem arouses when there's an excess amount of Candida; this is when a yeast infection results. Many women come across this after they have been on antibiotics. Antibiotics tends kills all of the bacteria including the healthy ones that are needed.

Types

• Doctors prescribe an assortment of treatments for vaginal irritation, itching and swelling. Antifungal antibiotics (such as Difflucan) are helpful in the treatment of yeast infections and there are other types of antibiotics prescribed to take care of vaginal infections that are bacteria related. Antihistamines, creams, lotions and ointments are also administered to decrease the inflammation and tenderness. Some physicians prescribe a Benzodiazepine (frequently used in treatment for various psychological conditions); to aid during the nighttime.

Considerations

• In addition to the above natural remedies like Probiotics; which are considered to be good bacteria, are effective in ridding the body of a yeast infection. Probiotics hold back the development of organisms like the Candida that can be damaging. An example of this is Lactobacillus acidophilus which, when taken as a supplement is proven to offset the excessive production of Candida.
  Numerous herbs such as Oregon grape root extract and Goldenseal are also helpful, along with Lavender extract and Tea Tree Oil. Garlic is also good; it contains properties that boost the immune system and can act as an antifungal agent. Garlic is available in the form of an oral supplement, much like the Lactobacillus acidophilus is. These products can be purchased at vitamin stores, health food stores and even your local grocery store. You can also purchase them via the web.

Expert Insight

• To relieve vaginal irritation, itching and swelling, it's a good idea to keep the following in mind (they can also be used as a preventative measure). Avoid using antibiotics for prolonged periods of time, and keep away from undergarments that are not made from all cotton. Undergarments should always be dry and provide an adequate amount of ventilation. Pants and hosiery that are too tight tends to aggravate the genital area. Steer clear of using soaps, body washes and other body products (feminine spray, bath bubbles, salts) that are scented or include harsh chemicals. Also, if you are menstruating, try just using panty liners (as opposed to tampons).
  Excessive douching may also rid the body of the good bacteria that it needs and cause it aggravation. Consult your health care provider, prior to douching or using other cleansing methods. Be conscious of how you clean yourself after going to the bathroom; always wipe from the front to the rear, so that bacteria does not spread or get transferred.