itchy irritated vagina vaginitis vaginal itching

 Naturopathic Treatment of Vaginitis

by Dr. Pamela Frank, BSc(Hons), ND

Vaginitis means that there is inflammation in the vagina.  Vaginal irritation accounts for an estimated 10 million health care office visits in the United States each year.  The causes of vaginal irritation include infections from organisms like Candida albicans, Mycoplasma hominis, Gardnerella vaginalis and Trichomonis vaginalis but also can be from exposure to a number of irritants including tampons, soaps, detergents, perfumes, condoms and even semen.

What are the Symptoms of Vaginitis?


  1. Vaginal or perineal vulvar irritation
  2. Abnormal vaginal discharge
  3. Vaginal itching
  4. Some cases are asymptomatic, meaning there are no symptoms, but there may still be an infection

Naturopathic Treatment of Vaginitis

  1. Reducing excess estrogen, this is the liver’s job, so we can enhance clearing of estrogen using specific nutrients that increase estrogen breakdown through the liver
  2. Providing nutrients to heal and strengthen vaginal tissue.  Vitamin A is very important for mucous membranes such as the vaginal lining and important for the immune system.
  3. Eliminate infectious organisms like Candida, Gardnerella and Mycoplasma. Gardnerella is the microorganism responsible for Bacterial Vaginosis.  You can read more on that on my BV page.
  4. Aiding liver detoxification of hormones (not the kits from the health food store!) and hormone mimicking pollutants
  5. Restore probiotic or acidophilus bacteria that protect vaginal tissue from infectious organisms.  Certain strains of beneficial bacteria are particularly helpful to maintain vaginal health, these include Lactobacillus rhamnosus and gasseri.
  6. Boost immune system function to prevent future infection and fight existing bacteria/yeast.  A diet high in refined carbs will feed unwanted organisms and suppress the immune system.  Cleaning up your diet, reducing stress, sleeping well and regular exercise can all help boost immunity.

Benefits of Naturopathic Treatment of Vaginitis

  1. Naturopathic treatment addresses the underlying cause of bacterial vaginosis (BV) or vaginitis in order to cure the condition on a longer term basis
  2. Better overall health and hormone balance
  3. A stronger immune system
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