Vaginal burning is both unpleasant and concerning, especially when that irritation arises out of nowhere. While some cases of vaginal burning may be relieved by simply improving hygiene or eliminating exposure to certain allergens, burning can also be a symptom of a more serious issue like an infection.   

Vaginal Burning Causes

Vaginal burning is often associated with vaginitis, which is a general term for inflammation of the vagina. In addition to burning, you may also experience itching, discomfort, and abnormal discharge. You can sometimes figure out the cause of vaginal burning based on the different symptoms you’re experiencing. 

For example, vaginitis covers a wide area of vaginal issues such as bacterial vaginosis, infections, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Each of these diagnoses can explain vaginal burning, but they are not the only potential culprits behind vaginal irritation. 

Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common cause of vaginitis, especially among reproductive-aged women.  Symptoms include vaginal burning, along with general irritation, discolored discharge, and an unpleasant odor. 

This condition is caused by a chemical shift in the “good” and “bad” vaginal bacteria, but it can be difficult to determine what causes this shift. There are theories that limiting sexual partners, using condoms properly, or avoiding sex altogether may lessen the risk of BV. In mild cases, BV sometimes goes away on its own without treatment, but antibiotics are typically needed.   

Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause vaginal burning depending on where the infection is located. If your vaginal burning is worse when urinating or you have a strong-smelling urine, then you may be suffering from a urinary tract infection. Maintain^TM from the Makers of Monistat offers a UTI 2-in-1 Test and Pain Relief Kit you can use to see if your burning might be caused by a UTI. You’ll want to share the results with your doctor since UTIs are typically treated with a prescription of antibiotics. 

Allergies

Allergies to products you use or even new clothing can cause symptoms like swelling, burning, soreness, or other irritation specifically in the genital area. Some common allergens that cause vaginal burning include:

• Latex/condom allergy
• Fragrance sensitivity in hygiene, bath, or personal care products
• Dyes or synthetic resins used in clothing
• Topical medication or steroids
• Oral medications taken by your partner that pass through seminal fluid

If your vaginal burning appeared suddenly with a change in products or lifestyle, it is possible you may have an underlying allergy. Doctors can test you to determine if allergies may be causing your discomfort. 

Yeast Infection

Yeast infections can occur at any time. These infections are caused by an abundance of Candida – a fungus that usually lives within your body without causing problems. However, if the fungus is too prominent, it can lead to a yeast infection. The exact cause of yeast infections can vary, but they are most commonly caused by taking certain antibiotics or occur with an underlying condition like diabetes, having a compromised immune system, or hormonal changes. In fact, pregnant women have a greater risk of developing yeast infections because of hormonal changes.

Hormonal Changes

In addition to yeast infections, hormonal changes at different stages of life can also lead to imbalances in your vaginal bacteria. These changes often occur with pregnancy, breastfeeding, or menopause. It is important to speak to your doctor about any vaginal burning and other coinciding symptoms to create the best treatment plan for your personal health needs.   

Causes Related to Sexual Activity

Vaginal burning may be an indication of a sexually transmitted disease (STI). Three sexually transmitted diseases that can cause vaginal burning include: 

• Trichomoniasis or “trich”: This is the most common nonviral sexually transmitted infection world-wide. Many people with trich don’t have symptoms, but those who do may experience vaginal burning or tenderness, pain while urinating, or oddly colored discharge with a foul odor.
• Gonorrhea: Gonorrhea also rarely results in symptoms. Since the infection can manifest in different areas of the body, symptoms that do appear can vary. Some include unusual discharge, pain during sex or when urinating, and sometimes bleeding between periods.
• Chlamydia: Like the other STIs, most cases of chlamydia are asymptomatic. Symptoms that do appear in some cases may include unusual-smelling discharge, discomfort urinating, bleeding between periods, and general discomfort in your abdomen and vagina. These symptoms may appear between one week and three months after unprotected sex.

Each of these STIs must be diagnosed by a medical professional and are treated with antibiotics. Infections like these will not go away on their own, and your sexual partner or partners will need treatment too, as the STIs are highly infectious even if you don’t have symptoms.