Feeling itchy anywhere on your body can be a nuisance, but feeling itchy in the vulva is especially irritating. Mild after-sex itching isn’t usually anything to worry about, but if you notice that itching increases or it has other symptoms, talk to your doctor.
Some common causes of genital itching include:
Skin Conditions
Many people who experience itching in their genital area after sex are suffering from a skin condition or infection. Yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis (BV), genital herpes, pubic lice, and scabies can all cause itching in the vulva. These conditions can also be aggravated by certain sexual activities, including unprotected sex and using soaps that are too abrasive to the vulva.
Genital itching can also be caused by friction, which can occur if the vulva or penis are not properly lubricated during sexual intercourse. This can happen if a person does not use enough lubricant, is not properly aroused, or does not take the proper precautions by using condoms. In addition, using scented soaps or products near the genitals can dry out the skin, which can trigger an itching reaction in some women.
If you suspect that itching in the vulva or vagina is caused by one of these conditions, consult your doctor for treatment. Most conditions can be treated with over-the-counter or prescription medications, depending on the cause of the itching.
For example, a yeast infection can be treated with over-the-counter antifungal creams or suppositories, while BV and STIs can be treated with antibiotics or oral contraceptives. Yeast infections can also be prevented by using non-latex condoms and maintaining good genital hygiene, which includes washing the vulva with soapless or mild soaps and applying a moisturizing product after washing.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
The genital area can become itchy after sexual activity if you have an STI. STIs (sexually transmitted infections) are passed from person to person through vaginal, oral or anal sex. They can cause itching, burning or irritation in and around the penis and vulva. If you suspect an STI, tell your doctor or visit a sexual health clinic right away. They will ask you personal questions about your sex life and may do a urine or blood test to see what’s causing your symptoms.
The most common STI that causes itching is chlamydia. You can get chlamydia by having unprotected sex with someone who has the virus. Symptoms of chlamydia usually show up 5 to 28 days after you have sex. They include a burning feeling during and after urination, itchy genitals, a red rash that looks like pimples, and foul-smelling discharge. Yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis can also make your vulva or vagina itchy. These STIs are usually easy to cure with antibiotics, but itching is a common symptom.
You can prevent itching after sex by using lube that’s made for this purpose and using it frequently. Also, use condoms that have been tested to high safety standards and make sure you use the right size. If you have an allergy, use a latex-free condom. Other signs of an STI that can cause itching in or around the genitals are sores or bumps on or near your penis, vagina or mouth; a rash on your genitals, anus or chest; pubic lice or scabies; or unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge.
Allergies
In some cases, itching may be caused by a reaction to an allergy or infection. It can happen to men and women. The symptoms are usually confined to the genital area. They can be mild to severe and last for a few days.
Vaginal dryness can also cause itching after sex. This is most common in people with a skin condition like eczema or those who use harsh soaps, which can dry out the skin. This can also cause problems with lubrication during sex.
Hormonal changes can cause a change in the bacteria balance and moisture level of the vagina. This can lead to infections such as yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis, which can both cause itching. Pubic lice, a contagious condition caused by mites, can also be spread through sexual activity and can cause extreme itching in and around the genital area.
In rare cases, itching after sex can be a sign of an allergic reaction to semen. It is called sperm allergy and it usually affects women. Symptoms include itching in and around the genital areas, but they can also appear on other parts of the body that come into contact with semen, such as the skin and mouth. This is often misdiagnosed as a yeast infection or a STI. The symptoms of a sperm allergy can be severe and life-threatening.
Hormonal Changes
Millions of women around the world have issues with itching of their genital areas including the vagina, labia and clitoris. In many cases, itching in this area can be caused by a simple hygiene issue or even an allergic reaction to certain substances.
Itching can also be a sign of an infection or disease, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as herpes, warts, pubic lice, genital herpes, scabies and trichomoniasis. These conditions can be passed from person to person via vaginal, anal or oral sex and can cause symptoms such as redness, itching, soreness, discharge, pain and swelling in the genital area.
Other causes of itching in this area include using a soap with a strong fragrance, feminine sprays and douching, as well as wearing tight underwear or panties made of synthetic materials. In addition, hormonal changes can affect a woman’s vagina and vulva, including during pregnancy, menopause and PMS. In some cases, the itching can be relieved by using a lubricant or changing to a different brand of condom. If the itching is accompanied by any other signs or symptoms such as an unusual vaginal discharge or bad smell, then it’s important to visit a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment.