Causes of Itching or Burning After Sex

In some situations, itching and burning can be a sign of an infection, but not all infections are STIs. It’s worth noting that many of these conditions can cause itching or burning beyond the time frame immediately following intercourse, says Whelihan.

Yeast Infections

This fungal infection causes the skin around the vagina to burn and itch, and it may also cause unusual vaginal discharge.

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While yeast infections can be transmitted via sexual activity, Whelihan says they aren’t considered an STI.

They’re also extremely common. According to a review of studies involving more than one million women from 36 countries, one-third of women are experiencing symptoms of a yeast infection at any given time.

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Yeast infections are treated with antifungal medications that help fight yeast overgrowth. Medications can be administered either orally or topically, and they’re available over the counter. Most yeast infections clear up with medication within a few days, but more severe cases may take longer to treat.

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Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) occurs when there’s an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina. The cause of BV isn’t well understood, but douching, not using condoms, and having multiple sex partners can increase your risk of developing it.

A healthcare provider can treat a BV infection with antibiotics. Male partners of women with BV don’t need treatment, but the condition can spread between female sex partners.

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In cases of recurrent BV, there may be a place for treating the male partner for potential reduced recurrence.

Urinary Tract Infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply, most often in the bladder. Burning or pain when urinating is a common symptom, along with an increased urge to urinate, frequent urination, and pain or pressure in the lower abdomen.

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Sexual activity can increase the risk of a UTI, particularly in women who are prone to them.

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Treatment typically involves antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Allergic Reactions

Sensitivities to spermicides and scented products used in the genital area can cause inflammation in the vulva, leading to itching and burning.

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Other common causes of irritation include harsh soaps, personal care wipes, certain over-the-counter products, and generally poor or excessive hygiene practices.

“Sweat and friction can cause itching and burning, as well as skin reactions to products like latex or personal lubricant,” says Dr. Malchuk, who adds that topical steroids or allergy pills may be used to treat itching.

Declining Estrogen Levels

Declining estrogen levels can affect vaginal and urinary tissues, causing symptoms such as vaginal dryness, itching, burning, and painful sex. These symptoms are part of a collection of vaginal, vulvar, sexual, and urinary changes known as genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM).

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“As people approach menopause, declining estrogen levels can cause itching and burning of the urethra or vagina independent of sexual activity, but sexual activity may make it worse as the tissues become more sensitive,” says Malchuk.

Treatment options can include over-the-counter ointments and creams, low-dose localized estrogen therapy, and other oral or hormone treatments.

STIs

Some STIs can cause itching or burning, although many cause no symptoms at all. The only way to know for sure whether you have an STI is to get tested.

STIs that may cause itching or burning include:

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Treatment depends on the type of STI you have. “Often antibiotics or antiviral medication can treat infections,” says Malchuk.

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