If you are experiencing itching after sex, it is important to be aware of possible causes and treatment. Itching in the genital area can be caused by friction, inadequate lubrication, rough sex, or by using condoms, lubes, or personal hygiene products that contain irritants or allergens.
Itching can also be a sign of STIs and other serious health issues. Mild itching after sex is usually nothing to worry about, but you should consult a doctor for more severe symptoms.
Causes
The feeling of itching anywhere on your body can set off PANIC alarm bells, but itching in the vulva and genital area can feel particularly uncomfortable. Itching in the genital area can be caused by a variety of factors, from dryness to external irritants. Vaginal itching can also be a sign of an infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections. Infections can also be a result of sexually transmitted diseases (STIs), including genital herpes, warts, pubic lice or trichomoniasis.
Itching can also occur if you have an allergy, such as a latex allergy. This can happen if you use condoms made of latex, which can trigger an allergic reaction. This can cause itching in the vulva and rectum, as well as redness, swelling, pain and rash. To avoid this, it’s best to switch to plastic condoms if you have an allergy to latex.
Another common cause of vaginal itching is friction. This can occur if the area isn’t adequately lubricated or aroused before sex, or if the vulva and labia rub together as you have sex. To prevent this, it’s important to clean your vulva and rectum properly before you have sex. This includes using gentle soaps and body washes in the intimate area, avoiding douching and using unscented products.
Trichomonas is an infection that can cause itching in the vulva, genital area and penis. This genitourinary infection is caused by an organism called trichomonas vaginalis and is the most common STD worldwide. Symptoms of this infection include pus, thin watery discharge and itching. The treatment for this infection is metronidazole, which can be prescribed by a doctor or bought over the counter.
Treatment
An occasional vaginal itch is normal, but if it’s constant and comes with a thick white discharge, it may be a sign of something more serious. That’s why it’s important to consult your gyno, especially if the symptoms came on suddenly and are accompanied by pain or swelling of the vulva.
Infections like bacterial vaginosis (BV) can also cause itching, especially when the pH levels in the vagina are disrupted. This is why it’s so important to use a condom during sexual activity and to avoid unprotected sex, which increases the risk of infection.
BV is caused by a bacteria called Gardnerella Vaginalis and doesn’t usually have any symptoms, but it can lead to pain, redness & swelling of the vulva and a fishy-like odor. Women who douche frequently, have multiple partners, and/or are taking oral sex are at higher risk for developing BV.
The best treatment for BV is to use a non-latex condom, and to change your underwear often so the skin doesn’t become irritated or chafed. You can also try using a lubricant to help with itching and use anti-itch creams on the vulva that don’t contain perfume or harsh chemicals. You can also use a natural supplement that contains phytoestrogen, which acts as an estrogen-like substance in the body. It is found in soy and other plant-based foods.
Prevention
Feeling itchy anywhere on your body isn’t a good sign, but feeling itchy in the intimate area is particularly alarming. Thankfully, it’s not usually a serious problem and you can probably treat it at home.
One of the most common reasons for vaginal itching after sex is an infection, which can be caused by a sexually transmitted disease (STD) like Gonorrhea or Chlamydia. Symptoms of these infections can include itching and sores. Using condoms during sex and avoiding sex with people who have an STI can help prevent an STD.
Another possibility for the itching is a reaction to sperm, which can happen if you’re allergic to a protein in semen. This condition is called seminal plasma hypersensitivity and can occur anywhere on the body, not just the vulva or penis. Using condoms during sex is the best way to avoid this reaction, but you should also be sure that you’re using non-latex ones that are marked as safe.
If the itching is more severe or lasts longer than a few days, see your doctor for a proper diagnosis. They can make sure that it’s not an infection or allergy, and can prescribe an appropriate treatment if necessary. They might also suggest that you switch to a different kind of condom or use one that doesn’t contain any lubricant during intercourse.
Diagnosis
If you notice vaginal itching after sex, see your doctor as soon as possible to make sure that it’s not something serious. He or she will likely perform a few tests (including urine and blood tests, STI and pap smear) to figure out what’s going on.
The itching could be caused by a sexually transmitted disease, such as gonorrhea, chlamydia or trichomoniasis. These infections can cause symptoms like itching, burning or tingling. The itching may also be a sign of genital herpes, warts or pubic lice.
You may be allergic to your lubricant or condom. Using non-latex lubricants and condoms will help reduce itching and irritation. You may also need to change your brand of lubricants. Don’t use dyed, scented or flavored lubricants as they can increase itching and irritation.
If your itching is due to a skin condition, such as eczema or dermatitis, you’ll need to treat that first. Using over-the-counter hydrocortisone 1% cream will help, and you can also take an oral antihistamine. Avoid scratching the itchy area as this can lead to a bacterial infection. Wear loose, cotton underwear to help air circulate and prevent itching. After urination and bowel movements, wipe from front to back and change your underwear often. Avoid synthetic underwear, which can be clingy and restrict air flow to the vagina.
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