Vaginal Burning: 9 Common Causes and How to Get Relief

A painful sensation that is not only irritating but also worrying for many females is vaginal burning. It refers to a discomfort that is felt anywhere in the vaginal area. This could manifest in the form of mild irritation to severe burning, and the discomfort can come while urinating, having sex, working out, and even relaxing.

While vaginal burning can be short-lived due to soaps or clothing irritants, it could also mean that there is an infection in play, necessitating medical intervention. In such vaginal infection cases, doctors recommend a vaginal cream.

Though vaginal burning might seem embarrassing to talk about, it is incredibly common and quite easily manageable. To learn more about the causes and ways of relieving yourself of it, it is best to know the various causes of this issue.

In this article, we will examine nine different causes of vaginal burning, the symptoms that accompany them, and ways to relieve yourself of the pain.

1. Yeast Infection

Vaginal burning often happens because of a yeast infection. Yeast infection arises from an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida, which is normally found in a vaginal environment, although in small numbers.

Symptoms of yeast infection include:

• High intensity itching
• Burning feeling
• Bright, cottage cheese-like discharge
• Vulvar redness
• During sexual intercourse or urination, pain may be felt.

Yeast infections may arise after antibiotic treatment, pregnancy, and even in cases of poor control of blood sugar levels.

Getting Relief

Minor cases of yeast infection may be alleviated with anti-fungal creams like Premarin vaginal cream or suppositories, which are readily available in pharmacies without a prescription. The use of loose-fitting undergarments made of cotton and keeping the affected area dry might alleviate the discomfort. In case the problem persists, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

2. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Bacterial vaginosis results from imbalance in the normal bacteria population in the vagina. While bacterial vaginosis is not considered a sexually transmitted disease, sexual intercourse can increase chances of developing it.

Symptoms of BV

• Burning sensation
• Discharge that is thin and either Gray or white in colour
• Foul vaginal smell
• Slight itching

Unlike a yeast infection, BV does not cause any thick vaginal discharge or severe itching.

Treatment Options for Bacterial Vaginosis

Most cases of BV require medication from a doctor, in the form of antibiotics. Douching should be avoided because it upsets the natural flora of the vagina. Safer sexual practices and the use of unscented products may reduce risks of BV. You can also use the Crinone Vaginal Gel 1.125 g in such cases.

3. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Sexual diseases such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, and Genital herpes can lead to vaginal burning sensations.

Common Symptoms

• Urine discharge
• Irregular discharge
• Pain in the pelvis
• Sores, blisters, or ulcers
• Painful sexual intercourse

In some instances, STIs have mild symptoms that are why it is essential to evaluate for infections if sexually active.

Getting Relief from STIs

To get relief from STIs, one should be properly diagnosed and treated by a medical expert. Bacterial infections are treated using antibiotics, and viruses are treated with antiviral drugs. Do not engage in sex until one is treated.

4. Allergic Reactions and Irritation

This region is highly sensitive, so even normal use of some products can result in an irritation. In some cases, vaginal burning can occur due to irritation of the tissues.

Most Common Causes

• Scented soaps
• Bubble baths
• Laundry soaps
• Feminine deodorizers
• Scented feminine pads or tampons
• Latex condoms
• Scented lubricants

Most Common Symptoms

• Burning sensations
• Reddening
• Dryness
• Moderate swelling

How to Find Relief

Avoid all scented products and switch to hypoallergenic versions that will not cause any irritation. Washing the area gently with just water may be sufficient. Wearing loose cotton underwear is also helpful in this case.

5. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

At times, the sensation of burning may be caused by problems in the urinary tract rather than vaginal issues. A UTI could affect adjacent organs causing a sharp burning feeling in the affected area.

Common Symptoms

• Burning when urinating
• The frequent urge to urinate.
• Pain in pelvic region
• Clear/odorous urine
• Discomfort in the lower abdomen

How to Get Relieved

A doctor typically treats UTIs using a prescription medication. Consuming many fluids helps clear out bacteria from the urinary tract. Ignoring the problem might cause an infection to move on to the kidneys. Visit the AustraliaRXMeds pharmacy website and order a prescription medicine to treat UTIs and get it delivered to your home today!

6. Hormonal Changes and Menopause

The lowering estrogen hormone level during menopause is responsible for vaginal dryness and burning sensations.

The estrogen is responsible for keeping the vaginal tissues thick and healthy and properly lubricated. The lower estrogen leads to the thinning and sensitization of the vaginal tissues.

Vaginal Dryness Symptoms

• Dryness of the vagina
• Sensation of burning
• Discomfort during intercourse.
• Tissue sensitivity
• Urinary complaints

Ways to Reduce Discomfort

The use of vaginal moisturizing products and lubricants could be beneficial. For more severe cases, doctors can recommend estrogen treatment. Sexual activity could aid in keeping proper circulation in vaginal tissues.

7. Friction and Minor Injury

Sometimes, physical irritation can result in burning sensations. Friction or pressure applied to the vulva through various activities can irritate and inflame the vulva.

Some Possible Triggers

• Highly active sexual intercourse
• Bicycling
• Constrictive undergarments
• Depilation methods
• Extensive physical training

Possible Symptoms

• Burning sensation
• Sensitivity
• Reddened skin
• Soreness

Remedies for Vulval Irritation

Provide time for healing by avoiding any irritation for several days. It may help wear loose clothing and apply cool compresses.

However, if there are no improvement and symptoms become more intense, it indicates either an infection or another disorder.

8. Skin Conditions Affecting the Vulva

There are some skin problems, which can affect your vulva and lead to symptoms like burning sensation, itching, and irritation.

For instance, there is a skin problem known as lichen scleroses, which leads to thinning and whitening of the skin around your vulva.

Some other types of skin problems can be eczema or psoriasis.

Symptoms

• Burning sensations
• Generalized itching
• Skin dryness and flakiness
• Patches of white
• Painful fissures on the skin

Ways to Relieve

A doctor may provide prescription for topical medications or ointments based on the skin problem diagnosed.

9. Vulvodynia

Vulvodynia refers to long-lasting pain or burning sensations in the vulva that persist for several months but have no known cause. This condition can greatly interfere with your daily tasks and intimate relations.

Symptoms

• Constant burning or stinging sensations
• Sitting pain
• Thrusting pain
• High sensitivity to contact.

Ways to Find Relief

The treatment methods commonly used in this case include:

• Pelvic floor physical therapy
• Medications prescribed by the doctor
• Treatments for nerve pain
• Dietary and lifestyle modifications
• Stress management techniques.

Home Remedies and Self-Care Tips

Though there could be some instances where a visit to the doctor becomes necessary, there are certain things that can help with vaginal itching at home.

Helpful Hints

• Ensure that you wear cotton undergarments.
• Discard scented hygiene products.
• Choose detergent with no fragrance.
• Have plenty of fluids.
• Prevent douching.
• Use water-based lubricants while having sex.
• Use cold compresses on the external part.
• Take off wet clothes immediately.

When to See a Doctor

While mild irritation is often self-corrective, there are cases when it is important to consult a doctor.

Consult a Doctor If:

• You have fever or Severe pain in your pelvis.
• If you find bleeding and Pungent odour yellowish-green discharge
• If you find Vesicles or ulcers
• Repeat episodes of infections.