Vaginitis is a type of inflammation of the vagina and vulva. The symptoms include vaginal itching, abnormal vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor, vaginal bleeding or spotting, pain or burning during urination and discomfort during intercourse. Here are a few home remedies to prevent and treat vaginitis.

Yogurt

Probiotic yogurt is nature’s gift to treat vaginitis as it contains active cultures which help to maintain a healthy vaginal pH balance. The bacteria lactobacilli found in yogurt also aids in preventing the growth and increase of bad bacteria. Include plain yogurt in your daily diet to keep vaginitis off. You could also put a tampon dipped in yogurt in the vagina for a few hours. Do this twice daily to get good relief.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is another great home remedy to treat vaginitis and control yeast or bacterial infections. Use two tablespoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar mixed in a glass of warm water to wash your vagina twice daily for a few days. Adding 1 to 2 tablespoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar and a little raw honey to a glass of warm water and drinking this concoction twice a day is also recommended.

Cold compress

Put a few ice cubes in a clean cloth. Tie the cloth and place it on your vagina for a minute. Now remove the cloth and reapply after a minute. Repeat the procedure for a few more minutes. Doing this will help numb the area; and give relief from itching, pain and other discomforts associated with vaginitis.

Garlic

With its antibacterial and antiseptic properties, garlic has the potential to treat bacterial and yeast infections that cause vaginitis. Moreover, garlic also helps to build your immune system thereby facilitating the body in fighting infections. Apply 4 to 5 drops of garlic oil mixed with half a teaspoon each of vitamin E oil and coconut oil to the affected area. Also use garlic in your cooking or simply eat a few raw garlic cloves everyday.

Boric acid

The humble boric acid cleanses the vagina and reduces the pain, itching and irritation associated with vaginitis. Put some boric acid powder into an empty gel capsule and place it inside your vagina before going to sleep. Wash your vagina thoroughly with warm water in the morning. Repeat this once or twice a week to get relief from vaginitis.

Note: Do not use this remedy if you are pregnant or near any cuts or abrasions, as it can enter the bloodstream and may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dermatitis and kidney damage. 

Tea tree oil

Being antibacterial and antifungal in nature, tea tree oil not only alleviates the symptoms of vaginitis, but also helps to prevent vaginal odor. Put 4 to 5 drops of tea tree oil in a small bowl of warm water. Mix well and use it to rinse your vagina. Do this once a day for a few days.

Note: Avoid using this remedy if you are pregnant.

Boost your immunity

Help your body to fight off infections like vaginitis by improving your immunity.

• Include apples, oranges, strawberries, mushrooms, carrots, sweet potatoes, beans, broccoli, green tea, ginger, garlic and cayenne pepper in your diet as these build immunity.

• Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day.

• Give importance to physical activity as well as adequate rest and sleep.

• Expose yourself to early morning sunlight for 15 minutes everyday to get a good amount of vitamin D.

• Keep a positive outlook toward life.

Maintain vaginal hygiene

Good hygiene is of utmost importance to keep infections at bay.

• Maintain hygiene by changing your underwear daily.

• Wash your underwear in hot water and dry them under direct sunlight from time to time.

• Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting pants or skirts. Do not wear tight-fitting underwear.

• Avoid using panty liners and underwear made from synthetic fiber.

• Avoid excess washing of the vagina. Also avoid douching and bubble baths.

• Do not use soap to wash the genital area.

• Avoid using perfumed toilet papers and feminine hygiene products.

• Wipe from front to back after using the toilet.

• Change wet clothes like swimsuits as soon as possible.