The burning sensation down below is never fun, especially if it’s a recurring problem. But before you panic, read on to find out what’s likely causing it.
It could be anything from a UTI to an allergy to condoms or your partner’s semen (yep, that’s a thing). The good news is that most causes are easy to fix.
Causes
Sex can be a fun, sensual and exciting experience for both partners. But it can also be painful and uncomfortable if the wrong factors are present. One of the most common causes of painful sex is lack of lubrication. Adding extra lube for foreplay and during intercourse can reduce friction and prevent burning sensations.
Other causes include sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as trichomoniasis or chlamydia, which can lead to itching and pain during sex. Some women may also have an allergy or sensitivity to certain lubricants, condoms or soaps, which can irritate the vulva and cause burning.
Hormonal changes during different stages of the menstrual cycle can affect libido and create friction in the vagina. This is particularly true when a woman is premenstrual, around the time of menopause and during perimenopause.
Other causes of pain and discomfort during sex include microtears caused by pelvic floor dysfunction or an allergic reaction to semen. These symptoms usually require a visit to a doctor or pelvic floor physical therapist for treatment and advice. In rare cases, the burning may be a symptom of vulvar cancer. This is a serious condition and requires immediate medical attention. The doctor will diagnose the symptoms and determine the best course of action. Depending on the cause, treatments will vary from creams to medications such as antibiotics or antiprotozoals.
Treatment
If you’re experiencing burning after sex, it’s important to see a doctor, especially if it isn’t going away. A gynecologist can help you determine the cause of your pain and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
Vaginal itching and a burning sensation are often caused by irritation or infection. This may be due to excessive friction during sex, an allergic reaction to your partner’s semen, or an underlying condition such as pelvic floor dysfunction (also known as vaginismus).
Itching and burning in the vulva are also common symptoms of a yeast infection. Yeast infections can be treated with antifungal medication. Other treatments for itching and burning in the vulva include ice packs, taking probiotics, eating fermented foods, practicing Kegel exercises, and drinking plenty of water.
Itching and burning after sex can also be a sign of an untreated sexually transmitted disease, such as chlamydia, herpes, gonorrhea, or trichomoniasis. STIs can be treated with antibiotics. If you’re diagnosed with an STI, it’s important to tell your recent sexual partners and use a barrier method until you are completely clear of the infection.
Prevention
There are a few simple prevention measures you can take to prevent burning during and after sex. Firstly, make sure you use plenty of lubricant before and during sexual penetration. This will help to reduce friction and will be soothing on the vulva tissue.
Another thing that can cause a burning sensation during sex is over-zealous sexual penetration. This can lead to a number of issues, including irritation and inflammation of the vulva tissue. It can also cause a condition called bacterial vaginosis (BV), which is a type of vaginal infection that causes pain, itching and a strong smell after sex.
If you suspect you have BV, it’s best to get checked out by your GP or by visiting a sexual health clinic. You can also get tested for STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea and herpes, which are all common infections that can cause pain and burning after sex.
If you’re a woman going through menopause, it’s important to talk to your GP about the changes in hormones that can occur, as this can cause the vagina to become drier and thinner, leading to a painful burning feeling. Your doctor can prescribe a hormone supplement to balance out your estrogen levels and help ease this issue. Also, make sure to use plenty of lube and try not to over-exercise.
Symptoms
Having sex and using lubricants can make the vagina or penis feel burning afterward, especially if there are injuries to the skin that get irritated. Rough sex or not using enough lubricant can make this pain worse.
If the pain is caused by a bacterial infection, like a UTI or urethritis, then a doctor should be consulted. These infections can cause pain during sex, itching, and a cottage cheese-like discharge. It’s also possible for the bacteria to travel from the urethra to the vulva and cause pain and discharge.
An allergic reaction to semen is another possible reason for a burning sensation after sex. This is very rare, but it can happen if there is irritation to the vagina due to the proteins in the semen. This can also occur if there is an allergy to spermicides, latex condoms or lubricants.
Other reasons for pain and burning after sex include a yeast infection, an STD, or a condition called vulvodynia. This is when the vulva or penis hurt, even if there is no penetration. This is a chronic condition that can lead to a loss of sexual interest and can interfere with romantic relationships. Treatment includes medication and avoiding rough sex. In severe cases, surgery may be needed. A gynecologist can diagnose this condition and prescribe the correct medication.