Vaginal itching is caused by vaginal dryness, which is mostly the consequence of low estrogen levels in a women’s body. Although this could happen to any women at any age, a drop in the estrogen level is often associated with the onset of a menopausal phase.

To treat vaginal itching during menopause one should understand why it occurs. Basically, when the estrogen levels diminish in woman’s body, the vaginal lining begins to thin and in time loses it elasticity.

This also leads to low production of natural lubricants which keep the vagina secure from any kinds of infections. Eventually, this causes vaginal dryness, subsequently itching.

What factors can aggravate vaginal itching during menopause?

• Uncomfortable clothing like tight undergarments or pants, which leads to increased perspiration.
• Consumption of food products like milk, gluten, cheese, caffeine, etc. which can increase vulnerability to yeast infections and extreme vaginal dryness.
• Use of personal cleansing products like fragrant soaps or body washes which can trigger itching and burn inside the vagina.

Treatments for vaginal itching during menopause
Before self-medicating or using any home remedies, it is advised to consult a gynecologist, who can accurately guide you about the menopausal phase. Your doctor will start by implementing a pelvic exam to check the state of the vaginal lining. Apart from this, they can also take samples of the vaginal discharge to determine the fluctuations in the estrogen levels. After a thorough examination, if your doctor confirms the possibility of menopause, you can start with the necessary treatments to reduce vaginal itching. They might recommend you with certain prescribed medication for feminine itching during menopause. These treatments could include topical ointments, suppositories, and tablets.

You can opt for a hormone therapy procedure to increase the estrogen levels in your body which can combat the vaginal itching. Hormonal therapy can be implemented in two ways –

• Transdermal manner – In this method, the estrogen is supplied to your body, in the form of patches or sprays. When you utilize the transdermal procedure, your body absorbs the estrogen. Currently, this method is becoming increasingly popular amongst women.
• Oral pills – Like almost all other treatments, patients can opt for a course of oral pills for hormone therapy. Although this can have its own set of side effects, as it is internally consumed.

Although, hormonal therapy must be only taken if your health care provider considers it as an apt option for your body.

Apart from seeking medical option to get rid of the vaginal itching caused by menopause, you can also make major changes in your diet and lifestyle. These can help you holistically overcome the vaginal itching and make your menopausal phase hassle free to a certain extent.