A burning sensation in or around the vagina can be uncomfortable, but it does not always mean you have an infection.

From everyday irritation to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), there are several possible explanations, and the accompanying symptoms can offer clues. In some cases, hormonal changes or conditions affecting the vulva can also cause persistent burning or discomfort.

Here are 10 possible causes of vaginal burning and when it may be time to see a doctor.

From Irritation to Common Infections

1. Irritation: Soaps, perfumes, scented hygiene products, certain fabrics, and other substances can irritate the sensitive skin around the vagina, causing burning, itching, stinging, or soreness. Avoiding the suspected irritant may allow the skin to recover.

2. Bacterial vaginosis: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) occurs when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina changes. It can cause burning, particularly when urinating, alongside thin white or grey discharge and a strong fishy smell. However, about half of women with BV have no symptoms.

3. Yeast infection: Vaginal thrush, caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast, can cause burning, itching, and soreness. White, thick discharge, sometimes resembling cottage cheese, is another common symptom.

4. Urinary tract infection: A UTI can cause a burning sensation when urinating, as well as a frequent or urgent need to pee. Cloudy or smelly urine, blood in the urine, and lower abdominal pain can also occur.

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STIs Can Also Cause Burning

5. Trichomoniasis: This sexually transmitted infection is caused by a parasite. Only around 30% of people with trichomoniasis develop symptoms, which can include burning, itching, soreness, and unusual vaginal discharge.

6. Gonorrhoea: Gonorrhoea can cause burning when urinating, vaginal discharge and bleeding between periods. Some people may have no obvious symptoms, making testing important when there is a potential exposure.

7. Chlamydia: Often called a 'silent' infection because many people have no symptoms, chlamydia can cause burning when urinating, increased discharge, pain during sex and bleeding between periods when symptoms do occur.

8. Genital herpes: Burning or tingling can occur when genital herpes becomes active, followed by painful blisters, sores, or ulcers in some cases. Flu-like symptoms and swollen glands may also occur.

Hormones and Other Causes Shouldn't Be Overlooked

9. Menopause: Falling hormone levels during perimenopause and menopause can cause vaginal dryness, irritation, and burning. These changes may also make sex painful and can contribute to urinary symptoms.

10. Vulvodynia: Persistent vulval burning does not always have an identifiable cause. Vulvodynia refers to pain in the vulva lasting at least three months and may feel like burning, throbbing, stabbing, or soreness. It can occur spontaneously or be triggered by touch, sex or tampon insertion.

When Should You See a Doctor?

It is worth seeking medical advice if the burning is new, severe, keeps returning or does not improve. You should also speak to a GP or sexual health clinic if you have unusual discharge, symptoms after sex with a new partner, pelvic pain, fever or chills, or think you may have been exposed to an STI.

Avoid douching and scented products around the vagina, as these can cause further irritation. Because several conditions can produce similar symptoms, self-diagnosing or repeatedly treating yourself for thrush may delay the correct treatment.

A healthcare professional can assess your symptoms and, where necessary, perform an examination or take a swab to identify the underlying cause. Treatment depends on the diagnosis, ranging from avoiding an irritant to antifungal medication, antibiotics, or treatment for hormonal changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are common causes of vaginal burning?
    Common causes include irritation from products, infections like bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections, sexually transmitted infections, and hormonal changes.
  • When should I see a doctor for vaginal burning?
    You should see a doctor if the burning is new, severe, persistent, or accompanied by unusual discharge, pelvic pain, fever, or after sex with a new partner.
  • Can hormonal changes cause vaginal burning?
    Yes, hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause can cause vaginal dryness and burning.
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