Exterior female genitals are called the vulva. Many conditions can affect the area, leading to a burning sensation in the vaginal area,as well as itching or stinging. Vaginal burning can cause great discomfort, and can be caused by numerous things, some causes requiring medical attentions. This article will examine various possible causes for the burning sensation.

Why Do I Have a Burning Sensation In Vaginal Area?

The severity of the sensation is dependent upon the cause of the burning. Vaginal burning can begin instantaneously or gradually, and it can be constant or only felt at specific times (during physical exercise, for example). Below are common causes of vaginal burning, and tips on how to deal with the problem:

1.     Irritation

Many things can cause irritation of the vagina, which is a very common cause of a burning sensation in vaginal area. Products such as toilet paper, cleansing wipes, or soaps, can all cause irritation if applied to the vaginal area. To avoid this, try switching to plain, fragrance free, and unscented varieties of the product that’s causing irritation.

2.     Douching

Douching can cause irritation to the vagina due to the harsh chemicals involved in the process. Use of a douche can also destroy healthy bacteria in the vagina, which can lead to more infections and complications. If you feel the need to douche, try crafting a home made version, utilizing organic ingredients.

3.     Yeast Infections

Yeast infections commonly cause vaginal burning. The sensation experienced can range from mild to moderate in intensity, and can also include other symptoms such as vaginal pain, swelling and redness in vulva, itching, irritation, white and thick vaginal discharge with a cottage cheese appearance and no odor. Yeast infections are often treated with antifungal medicines and creams; in recurring cases, you may need a course of therapeutic treatment and a maintenance plan.

4.     Bacterial Vaginosis

A healthy mix of bacteria within the vagina is a good thing, but it is possible for the wrong bacteria to grow, which can lead to an infection (bacterial vaginosis). Symptoms of this infection include a burning sensation in the vagina, as well as inflammation, itching, and discharge with a fishy smell. Bacterial vaginosis can be treated with antibiotics in the forms of capsules or creams.

5.     Poorly Controlled Diabetes

Poorly controlled diabetes can cause vaginal burning as it may cause a yeast infection. This is due to the fact that yeast feeds on glucose and glycogen, the two forms of sugar within the human body. When these sugar levels spike, the level of yeast also increases. If this becomes an infection (yeast infection), then vaginal burning may ensue.

6.     Other Causes

A variety of other causes, conditions, and diseases can also cause vaginal burning or burning sensation in vaginal area. Some of which are listed below:

• Hormonal changes
• Sexual transmitted disease (STDs) – Many STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital warts, and genital herpes, can cause a burning sensation in the vaginal area.
• Urinary tract infection (UTIs) – UTIs happen when the parts of your body that create, store, and excrete urine become infected with bacteria. This can cause vaginal burning.

What to Do About Vaginal Burning

• Practice good hygiene – ensure your vaginal area remains clean; wash everyday with appropriate product, and ensure to wipe front to back after using the toilet.
• Keep cool – As bacteria thrive in warm temperatures, ensuring that you keep your vagina cool will help prevent the accumulation of harmful bacteria. Avoid tightly fitting underwear, or heat trapping fabrics and materials (such as polyester).
• Use tampons – Products such as sanitary pads, along with menstrual blood, can irritate the vulva. If you are experiencing irritation, try switching to tampons.
• Avoid dryness – Avoid the area becoming dry by using water-based moisturizing cream, and lubricant during sexual intercourse.
• Dress appropriately – Tight clothing, like tight underwear, is best avoided.
• Use cool compresses – When held against the vulva, a cool compress can help to ease the burning or itching sensation.
• Perform regular self-examinations – Check for any irregularities, be sure to speak with your doctors if you notice anything abnormal.

When to See Doctor

If you have consistent, unexplained vaginal burning, then it is important to pay a visit to your doctor. You will likely undergo a pelvic examination, which involves an examination of the external genitalia, as well as the vagina and cervix. Your doctor may also collect a few cell samples to test for infection. As some causes of a burning sensation in vaginal area can cause serious health implications if left untreated, visiting your doctor will help to determine the cause, as well as permit them to offer you the correct form of treatment. If the cause is determined early, then the overall effect the condition has on your health will be lessened.