Genital itching can occur in both genders and may be a symptom of many issues, one of which can be diabetes.
But let us not get ahead of ourselves. It doesn’t strictly have to be an indicator of this disease. It can be caused by many different factors. Here is a list of possible reasons why our nether regions may be causing us trouble.
Reasons for Genital Itching
- Allergic reactions
- Chemical irritants (such as soaps, fabric softeners, creams, detergents, lubricants, and ointments)
- Pubic lice, which also go by the name of ‘crabs’, can reside in one’s pubic hair
- STDs such as trichomoniasis and genital herpes
- Vaginal yeast infections
- Bacterial vaginosis is a disease in the genital regions caused by bacteria
- Tinea cruris, also called ringworm of the groin, is a skin infection of the fungal variety
- Scabies – an extremely itchy, contagious skin disease due to tiny mites
- Vaginal dryness caused by menopause which leads to a drop in one’s estrogen levels
- Cancer (whether vulval or penile). It’s a rare type of cancer that occurs in the skin or tissues in the genital area of both genders
- Vaginitis represents inflammation of one’s vaginal tissues
- Diabetes mellitus
- Certain skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis
Yeast infections, as well as STDs, are contagious.
In case our genital itching comes from any allergies or irritations, then getting rid of the allergen or irritant is enough for the itching to subside.
But not every cause of genital itching is so easy to treat. Some require much more time and effort, and should never be left untreated as this can only lead to further complications, such as a secondary infection.
The Connection to Diabetes
As we stated prior, a genital yeast infection can occur in both men and women. However, recurring yeast infections on a regular basis could be an indicator of type 2 diabetes.
The reason for this assumption is that when one has this chronic disease, their blood sugar levels can reach a very high level. This is ideal for a yeast infection for two reasons:
1. Any area high in sugar content is a natural breeding ground for the yeast which is normally present in all of us but only grows under certain circumstances.
2. Overly high glucose levels can diminish the ability of one’s immune system to successfully fight infections.
Moreover, having the disease can also lead to higher sugar content in one’s urine – another ideal place in which yeast can thrive.
How to Recognize Genital Itching
Experts use this term to describe not just itching, but also redness, soreness, and burning around and in one’s male or female genitals.
When to See a Doctor
If the itching problem does not go away after several days, or if we are feeling concerned in general, we should never ponder whether or not we should see a doctor.
In fact, not seeking professional medical advice on time could lead to many further complications stemming from the initial problem.
One of those complications is infecting others with whatever is bothering us. This is done through close contact, such as intercourse.
And besides, if it happens to be diabetes after all, then ignoring our warning signs could only bring about further complications.
As for those who have already been diagnosed with the disease and suffer from recurrences in itching concerning your genital area, then it can only mean one thing: the blood sugar levels are at a constant high (hyperglycemia).
This is where our professional healthcare team comes to the rescue. They can recognize the symptoms and look for ways to solve the issue. This usually means bringing our blood glucose to a normal level.
Additional Tips
While going to see a professional remains our main piece of advice, there are some natural treatments we can try at home to relieve any burning or itching. They are:
- Apple cider vinegar
- Yogurt
- Saltwater baths
- Garlic
- Cold compresses
- Kefir
- Cranberry juice
- Boric acid
ACV
We have two options:
1. We can take one tbsp. of raw, unfiltered ACV and drink it diluted in a glass of warm water.
2. We can add two tbsp. of unfiltered, raw ACV and use this to wash our private area twice a day until the itching goes away.
Yogurt
Just make double-sure it’s the plain, unsweetened yogurt, as having sugar defeats the purpose and can even make matters worse as yeast loves sugar. The best kind is the one with active cultures.
We can either eat a few cups of it on a daily basis or dab a tampon and insert it, keeping it there for two hours. We should do this daily until we get the necessary relief.
Salt Water Baths
This is pretty self-explanatory. We should add half a cup of salt to our bath and soak in it, making sure the bath water is not too hot.
Cold Compresses
Most people who have had to deal with this issue claim applying a cold compress helps them achieve quick relief from any burning or itching down there. Rinsing with cold water several times on a daily basis should also help.
Kefir
It is a magnificent source of good bacteria, which helps keep the bad bacteria and yeast in check. We can either drink it for a few weeks or apply directly using a tampon, or both!
Cranberry Juice
This juice is also great for UTIs (Urinary Tract Infections). We can drink two glasses of this juice (the unsweetened version!) a day. In case we can’t find any, we can go with cranberry tablets 2x per day. But be sure to consult with a doctor on the proper dosage.
Boric Acid
It has natural antiseptic and antifungal properties, which is exactly what we need here. We can dilute some of it in water and apply it directly onto the area in question twice daily for a few weeks.
Just make sure to leave it on for no more than one to two minutes, and rinse the area thoroughly afterward.
These are some of the most potent natural treatments for genital itching. There are some others we can try and see what works best for us personally. Either way, we are bound to get some much-needed relief.
As for what we can do in the meantime to prevent any future occurrences:
- Maintain optimal hygiene down there
- Use only cotton underwear and change it at least once daily
- Avoid sugar as much as possible while the infection lasts
- Limit any exercising or swimming during this period, as yeast thrives in wet or moist areas
- Avoid intercourse while there is still itching
- Avoid any scented products which are abundant in chemicals and can bring one’s pH into disbalance
- Resist any scratching temptation
- Never douche private parts, even if there is no yeast infection present!
Whatever we do, dear readers, we should never ignore any warning signs, whether they are coming from this specific region or not. Stay healthy and pay attention to what the body is trying to tell you.
Source: Diabetes | Top 10 Home Remedies
