One symptom that a woman can experience from time to time is a burning vagina. This can be associated with sexual intercourse or not.

Causes of Burning Vagina

There are a number of things that can cause the sensation of burning. These causes can range from a simple irritation to a more serious sexually transmitted infection. Also included in the list of possible causes is a yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis and even allergy.

• Irritation – Many things can irritate the vaginal lining including sexual intercourse. Semen is slightly acidic and may cause a slight burning sensation. Certain foods or diets can increase the acidity of semen.

• Allergy – Some women are allergic to semen. Symptoms include redness, itchiness, burning, pain and discomfort on the skin or vaginal area.

• Yeast infection – Yeast infections are caused by a fungus. The most common species is Candida spp. Fungus is a normal part of the flora in the mouth, intestines and even vaginal secretions. The problem occurs when something causes the yeast population to overgrow. This can be caused by the use of antibiotics, which kill bacteria. This causes the competition to decrease, thus the yeast takes advantage and grows. Pregnancy and oral contraceptives both cause an increase in estrogen levels. Last, but definitely not least is a weakened immune system.

• Bacterial Vaginosis -Bacterial vaginosis is the overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. Symptoms include white or grey vaginal discharge and fishy smell.

• Sexually Transmitted Diseases – STDs can also cause vaginal burning or something that leads to vaginal burning like a yeast infection, including Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Trichomoniasis, Herpes, Human Papilloma Virus, and HIV/Aids.

Treatment of Burning Vagina symptoms

Treatment depends on the cause of the symptoms. Treat bacterial vaginosis with antibiotics. Bacterial sexually transmitted diseases are treated with antibiotics. Viral STDs have no cure, although there are now treatment plans that help manage these diseases.

Yeast infection is treated with anti-fungal medications designed for yeast infection. Many over-the-counter products are available that range from vaginal creams, suppositories or oral pills. These normally contain Miconazole, Clotrimazole or Tioconazole in dosages for one, three or seven day treatments.

Three-pack of 60 tablets of AZO Natural Yeast Symptom Prevention & Relief for $17.64

For instance, you can find a three-pack of 60 tablets of AZO Natural Yeast Symptom Prevention & Relief for $17.64 on Amazon.com. This is a natural homeopathic treatment for vaginal yeast infections in tablet form. Another example of a treatment for vaginal yeast infection is the Gyne-Lotrimin 3-day treatment with 3 0.74-ounce tubes of vaginal cream and three applicators sold on amazon.com for $19.16 in a pack of two.

Gyne-Lotrimin 3-day treatment with 3 0.74-ounce tubes of vaginal cream and three applicators for $19.16 in a pack of two.

Prevention

Prevention also depends on the cause of the burning vagina. If it is caused by irritation due to sexual intercourse, make sure to use plenty of water-based lubricant. Using a condom during sexual intercourse can prevent an allergic reaction to semen. Prevent yeast infections by bathing with water but no soap, wipe from front to back after bowel movements and avoid feminine hygiene sprays and scented tampons/pads. Prevent bacterial vaginosis by avoiding douching, using condoms. Prevent STDs by using a condom and discussing STDs with your partner. You and your partner should also consider being tested.

References:
Florida Atlantic University Today and Beyond Wellness. Ask the Expert : Burning Vagina. Available at
University Health Services of University of Wisconsin-Madison. Yeast Infections. Available at
University of California University Health Services. Bacterial Vaginosis. Available at http:// uhs.berkeley.edu/home/healthtopics/PDF%20Handouts/Bacterial%20Vaginosis.pdf