Fortunately, itchy penis and vaginal itching after sex are usually not serious and can be treated at home. However, certain infections and STIs require medical attention.
Avoid latex condoms and lubricants if you have a latex allergy. Use non-latex lubricants and creams, or use unscented tampons. Avoid douches, and be careful when using perfumed soap or sprays on your genital area.
Dry Skin
The skin is the body’s primary interface with the environment, regulating the passage of nutrients and water from inside the body and out. Because the genital area covers such a large area and is exposed to harsh environments, it’s no wonder that it often becomes dry and itchy.
Yeast infections and chemical irritants can trigger itching in this region, but so can a variety of other conditions and health problems. For example, itchy skin may indicate diabetes, hypothyroidism, kidney failure or Sjogren’s syndrome, all of which can cause a lack of natural lubrication in the area. Itching in the vulva can also be caused by psoriasis, lichen sclerosus or dermatitis from soaps, perfumes, feminine sprays and detergents. Itching in the vulva can occur during and after menopause as estrogen levels fall, leading to drier skin.
Sexually transmitted diseases can also trigger itching, as well as redness and swelling. STIs can be spread through vaginal, anal or oral sex and symptoms may appear a few days to a few weeks after exposure. If a STI is present, it should be treated as soon as possible to prevent an infection from spreading to other partners. Treatment for STIs typically involves antibiotics and abstaining from sex until the infection clears. Vaccines are available for herpes and HIV. Anal or oral sex can lead to an itchy penis, which may be the result of friction burn from rough sex or a lack of lubrication. Treatment for an itchy penis includes avoiding sex until the symptoms improve, using a lubricant and discontinuing use of scented products.
Chemical Irritation
Vaginal itching is a common sensation, and it can be caused by a variety of things. Whether it’s due to a skin rash, yeast infection, abrasions or chemical irritants, the itching can be incredibly uncomfortable and frustrating. If itching in your intimate area persists, it’s important to see a doctor to make sure there isn’t a serious problem like an STI or vaginal cancer.
Using lubricant during sex can help prevent dryness and itching in the vulva, Green says. Water- or silicone-based lubes are best. Avoid using lubricants that contain alcohol or scents, which can irritate the vulva. Likewise, you should steer clear of scented toilet paper and feminine sprays, which can cause irritation and allergic reactions.
Some spermicide gels and condoms that kill sperm may also cause itching in the vulva. If you have a reaction to these, try rubbing the area with an over-the-counter hydrocortisone 1% cream and taking an oral antihistamine.
Certain STIs can also cause itching in the vulva, including chlamydia, gonorrhea and herpes. These STIs can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and even ectopic pregnancy, if left untreated. Symptoms of these STIs, which include a foul-smelling discharge, painful urination and a swollen vulva, typically show up 5 to 28 days after exposure.
Yeast Infections
A yeast infection, also called vaginal candidiasis, is a fungal overgrowth that causes itching and intense irritation of the vulva. It isn’t considered a sexually transmitted disease, but it is more common in women and may be spread during oral sex. Yeast infections usually appear as thick, curd-like vaginal discharge that some describe as resembling cottage cheese.
If you suspect a yeast infection, abstain from any sexual activity until the itching subsides. You can also use over-the-counter creams or treatment kits to ease the symptoms. If the itching continues, see your doctor for a diagnosis and treatment.
Yeast infections are sometimes caused by antibiotics, hormonal contraceptives and other medications that kill good bacteria in the body. Other risk factors include pregnancy, hormone changes during the menstrual cycle and diabetes. Poor genital hygiene and unmanaged high blood sugar can also increase your chance of yeast infection.
Some STIs, including trichomoniasis, chlamydia and gonorrhea, can cause itching after sex. Itching is usually accompanied by a burning sensation and an unpleasant or foul smell in the vulva. Symptoms of these STIs typically begin a few days after sexual contact, but can appear months later. A doctor can prescribe anti-fungal treatments for STIs and an itchy vagina can often be relieved with the use of non-latex condoms, avoiding lubricants and using spermicides during intercourse.
STIs
Many sexually transmitted diseases and infections can cause vaginal itching. These include trichomoniasis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and herpes. Itching from these infections can be very uncomfortable and can affect both men and women, but is more likely to occur in men.
Itching from STIs may also be associated with a green, yellow or cheesy discharge from the vulva and labia. If you have this type of symptom, it’s important to see a doctor right away so they can prescribe antibiotics and treat the infection.
Unprotected sex can also alter the pH of your vagina, which can lead to itching. In addition, unprotected sex can cause contact dermatitis that can make the skin around your vulva and clitoris itchy.
In order to prevent itching, it’s a good idea to avoid soaps and feminine sprays that can be irritating. Also, be sure to use a lubricant and wear latex-free condoms. For yeast infections, there are over-the-counter creams and treatment kits available to help relieve itching. Doctors can also prescribe antihistamines for allergies to semen or latex, and EpiPens for severe allergic reactions. For STIs, treatments include oral or topical antibiotics and surgical laser removal of warts and cryosurgery for herpes. If the itching is severe, your doctor might recommend a vaginal suppository of boric acid, which helps to restore normal pH levels and reduce bacteria.