Does Vaginal Itching Resolve After Periods?
Women's bodies go through a lot during their periods. The phase is not just painful but irritating at times. Vaginal bleeding is a biological process and is a 28-day cycle in which bleeding lasts for around 4 to 5 days. The process of menstruation prepares your body for pregnancy by thickening your uterus lining with the release of an egg from one of your ovaries. The uterus lining is passed, along with blood, out of the body through the vaginal opening.
Sometimes you may feel itching in your vaginal area on the vulva, or around your labia, and general pubic area either on or before the periods. The vagina is exposed to several types of bacterial and fungal infection which may cause some serious consequences to your health.Experts say taking care of vaginal hygiene is a must for womens. There can be many underlying causes of vaginal itching. Some of the possible reasons for vaginal itching are-
Yeast infection:
Yeast infection is one of the most common vaginal infections. The reason for its occurrence is not taking care of proper hygiene. The medical condition of yeast infections repetitively on the vulva and inside the vagina around every menstrual cycle is termed Cyclic Vulvovaginitis. It is caused by the overgrowth of Candida fungus.
During the menstrual cycle, the pH adversely affects the natural growth of Lactobacillus bacteria that keep control over the growth of Candida in your vagina. When these good bacteria’s can’t function properly, then Candida fungus grows out of control and can develop several harmful symptoms such as-
- puffiness
- burning during urination or sex
- inflammation
- rashes
- whitish-grey discharge
It is always advised to visit a doctor if you notice any of the above symptoms. If taken care of on time this infection can be treated with minor oral antifungal medicines.
Bacterial vaginosis
If you are experiencing a foul, fish-like odor that often involves greenish, yellow or grey discharge with, a burning sensation during urination, along with severe vaginal itching then this may be the case of Bacteria; Vaginosis. Bacterial Vaginosis is caused by hormonal disbalances due to pregnancy or menstruation so if you’re itchy during your period, Bacterial Vaginosis may be the reason behind this.
Trichomoniasis
Some Sexually transmitted diseases also cause vaginal itching. Though this can be an initial sign of some serious issues it needs to be taken care of on time. Trichomoniasis leads to itching in the vulva and vagina.
The symptoms of trichomoniasis include:
- burning sensation during urination or sex
- frothy-looking vaginal discharge
- vaginal bleeding or spotting
Trichomoniasis can be cured with a few antibiotics.
Irritation
Vaginal itching during periods may be caused by not changing pads after every 5 hours. If you use cups or tampons make sure that they are of high-quality material and not made from scented and irritating materials.
change your tampons frequently and try using cups instead of tampons every so often. And the healthier option is the use of menstrual cups that are reusable and safe on the skin.
Diagnosis
Consult your doctor immediately if you notice any change in your period cycle and vaginal area. Your doctor might take a swab of the tissue inside your vagina or your vaginal fluid to view under a microscope to identify the cause and complication of infection.
Home remedies
Home remedies for itching during menstruation include:
- Avoiding wearing tight jeans,
- wear cotton underwear
- Use unscented pads, washable pads
- taking probiotics to balance the pH of your vagina
Other Reasons for vulvar itching before your period
- Vaginal dryness Vaginal dryness is primarily experienced around menopause or a nursing mother. Taking proper care of your vaginal area can help you avoid such conditions.
- Using sex toys
- Using scented period products like lotions and sprays.
Clean your vagina daily with lukewarm water and avoid using any unnatural products.
