Genital itching is a condition characterized by a rash like skin symptom that develops in and around the genital area. Usually reddish in color, the rash can be very itchy and painful. In some cases, it may also cause sores, blisters and bumps to erupt on the skin surface.
It is essential that you get genital itching treated immediately as it may lead to a more complicated medical problem otherwise. Take a look at some ways in which you can avoid genital itching as well as treat it at home with natural remedies.
Causes of Genital Itching
Genital itching can be caused by innumerable factors. It could be caused by hygiene issues wherein accumulated dirt in the region triggers off a skin reaction. It can be caused by allergies, irritants(caused by the chemicals present in soaps, sprays and detergents, etc.) and infections, including jock itch, yeast infections, molluscum contagious and balanitis, etc.
Sexually transmitted diseases and autoimmune disorders can also contribute to genital itching in certain cases. There is also the case of a lice or mite infestation wherein these tiny insects lay eggs around the genital area, causing sores and itchiness.
Other common causes for genital itching include contact dermatitis, psoriasis, lichen planus, reiter syndrome, genital herpes, genital warts, syphilis, urinary incontinence, eczema, vaginitis, diabetes, trichomoniasis, menopause and in the worst case scenario, cancer.
Symptoms of Genital Itching
The telltale symptom of genital itching is the rash that appears near the genital area. This is usually accompanied by inflammation in the region. Some cases of genital itching also cause sores and blisters to erupt on the skin surface while others can cause the skin to become dry and flaky. Consistent pain in the region along with irritation and itchiness are also some of the more common symptoms of genital itching.
Tips to avoid genital itching
Prevention is better than cure. This holds true for genital itching which can become a really bothersome issue with time. Some of the more common ways in which genital itching can be avoided include:
- Clean Properly: Cleaning after every bowel movement is a must especially if you are prone to develop genital itching regularly. Always wipe from front to back in order to prevent bacteria from moving to the genital region from the anus.
- Avoid Irritants: Stay away from products that contain chemicals which may trigger off a genital rash. These include chemical based sprays, body odors, detergents, fabric softeners, soaps, body lotions, etc. Use mild, unscented alternatives to prevent genital itching.
- Dry Properly: Bacteria thrive in moist environments. So dry the genital area nicely with a soft towel after every bathroom trip. Apply some cornstarch powder in the region to prevent excessive sweating throughout the day.
Common Home Remedies for Genital Itching
Here are some common home remedies for genital itching that can be as effective as standard medication in treating the condition.You may have to see a doctor eventually to treat the condition. But these natural remedies will offer you relief from the condition and its symptoms until you get medical help.
- Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has potent antifungal and antibacterial properties. This helps reduce genital itching considerably, and eventually get rid of the bacteria/fungus causing the condition as well. Washing the infected region with some diluted apple cider vinegar solution every day can prove to be beneficial for the same purpose.
- Garlic
Garlic contains antibacterial properties that can treat the symptoms of genital itching almost instantly. You can apply freshly made garlic paste to the genital region for about 15 minutes every day until the symptoms reduce considerably.
- Yoghurt
Yoghurt contains good bacteria that can drive out the bad bacteria that cause genital itching. Drinking a cup of unsweetened yoghurt a day can effectively treat genital itching and its symptoms. You can also apply some yoghurt in the genital region for about 15 minutes and was it off with lukewarm water afterwards. Doing this twice a day can relieve the symptoms of genital itching considerably and treat it in no time at all.
- Anti-bacterial Talcum Powder
Applying some anti-bacterial talcum powder in the genital region at regular intervals throughout the day can help treat genital itching effectively. The powder will keep the genital region dry and prevent the bacteria from multiplying. It will also do a good job in killing the bad bacteria in the region, thus curbing genital itching for good.
Genital itching is a condition that causes immense pain, irritation and itchiness in the genital region. It is imperative that you treat the condition with these home remedies and tips in order to stay safe from possibly worse complications.