Baking Soda Bath for Yeast Infections: Does It Really Work?

If you’ve ever experienced persistent itching, burning, and discomfort, you know just how frustrating yeast infections can be. While there are plenty of over-the-counter treatments available, many women turn to home remedies to relieve symptoms of a yeast infection. One such remedy is taking baking soda baths. But does it actually work? Let’s take a closer look.

What is a yeast infection?

Yeast infections, medically known as vaginal candidiasis, are caused by an overgrowth of Candida (usually Candida albicans), a type of yeast that naturally exists in your body. Usually, your body keeps yeast in check, but factors like antibiotics, hormonal changes, or even stress can tip the balance, causing yeast to multiply and lead to an infection.

Common symptoms include:

• Intense vaginal itching and irritation 
• Thick, white vaginal discharge (often described as "cottage cheese-like")
• A burning sensation when you pee or have sex

Yeast infections are incredibly common, affecting about 75% of women at some point in their lives. The good news? They’re treatable.

How to treat yeast infections

Most yeast infections can be treated with antifungal medications. These come in various forms:

• Over-the-counter medications, such as antifungal creams and suppositories like miconazole (Monistat)
• Prescription oral antifungal medications, such as fluconazole (Diflucan)
• Boric acid suppositories, specifically in the case of recurrent yeast infections
• Topical treatments, such as Evvy’s Anti-Itch Vulva Cream.

These treatments are effective, but they’re not always the fastest route to relief — mainly because you need to order them online or have a healthcare provider prescribe them to you. That’s why many women turn to home remedies, including baking soda baths.

What is a baking soda bath?

A baking soda bath (also known as a sitz bath) involves adding sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to a warm bath and soaking in it for a few minutes. Baking soda is known for its alkaline properties, which can neutralize acidity and potentially soothe irritated skin. This has made it a popular home remedy for everything from sunburn to itchy skin conditions — and yes, vaginal yeast infections.

Baking soda bath for yeast infection: does it work?

Most natural remedies for yeast infections are pretty ineffective, but there is some truth to baking soda baths helping relieve symptoms of a yeast infection. Here's how:

1. Balances pH levels: Vaginal yeast thrives in acidic environments, and baking soda can create a more alkaline setting that makes it harder for yeast to grow. 
2. Soothes irritation: The anti-inflammatory properties of baking soda may help reduce itching and burning, providing temporary relief.
3. Mild antifungal properties: Some research suggests baking soda can inhibit the growth of certain fungi, including Candida albicans.

However, while baking soda baths can be soothing, they’re not a treatment for yeast infections. A baking soda bath might relieve itching, but it won’t address the underlying yeast overgrowth. For that, you’ll need antifungal medication

In fact, baking soda can neutralize your vaginal pH level (ie, make it less acidic), which could potentially kill off protective Lactobacillus species, weaken your microbiome, and make you more vulnerable to bacterial overgrowth. It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis before using baking soda baths. 

How to take a baking soda bath

If you want to give it a try, here’s how to do it safely:

1. Fill your bathtub with warm water (not hot, as that could irritate your skin)
2. Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to the water and stir until it dissolves.
3. Soak in the bath for 10-15 minutes
4. Gently pat your skin dry with a clean towel.

You can do this once a day until symptoms improve. Just remember to avoid harsh soaps or fragrances that could make irritation worse. Consult your healthcare provider before trying a baking soda bath if you have open cuts, sores, or cracked skin around your vulva and vagina.

When to see a healthcare provider

While a baking soda bath might help ease symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor if:

• This is your first yeast infection (you’ll want a confirmed diagnosis)
• Your symptoms don’t improve after a few days
• You experience frequent or recurring infections
• You’re pregnant or have a weakened immune system.

FAQ

Does baking soda bath help yeast infection?

A baking soda bath can be a gentle and soothing way to relieve some of the itching and discomfort of a yeast infection. However, it’s not a replacement for antifungal medications, which are necessary to treat yeast infections fully. Think of it as a complementary approach to managing symptoms while you tackle the root cause. 

What can I put in my bath when I have a yeast infection?

You can add ½ cup of baking soda to warm bathwater and soak for 10–15 minutes. This should help relieve itching. Avoid adding any bubble baths, essential oils, or harsh soaps — while they don’t cause vaginal yeast infections, the fragrances and chemicals in them could cause further irritation. 

Can I use baking soda water to wash my private parts?

Yes, but it’s not necessary to do this every day. Baking soda water can provide relief from itching and burning when you have a yeast infection or cytolytic vaginosis, but it’s worth noting that baking soda makes the vaginal environment less acidic, so we wouldn’t recommend baking soda baths on the regular. You should only use baking soda water to wash your vulva, never to wash the inside of your vagina.