This blog originally appeared on 15/01/2021. Last updated 07/03/2025.
Feeling itchy anywhere on your body is never pleasant, and when it happens down below, it can be particularly concerning.
If you’ve experienced vaginal itching after sex, you might immediately think it’s due to a sexually transmitted infection (STI). While this is a possibility, there can be many other causes.
So, what can cause an itchy vagina? Let’s explore some potential reasons.
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STIs
Vaginal itching can indeed be a telltale sign of an STI.
Itching in the genital area is usually caused by bacterial and viral STIs that infect the urinary tract during vaginal sex or sharing sex toys. Infected bodily fluids transmit these pathogens through the mucous membrane in the vagina. The itching is caused by your immune system’s response to these foreign bodies.
Itching can also be accompanied by other STI symptoms, including:
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Pain when urinating
- Pain when having sex
- Bleeding between periods
- Sores or bumps in or around the vagina
- Unusual vaginal odour
Here are some common STIs that can cause vaginal itching.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It often affects the cervix in women and the urethra in men, but it can also infect the rectum and throat.
Chlamydia can cause a range of symptoms, including vaginal itching. This itching occurs because the infection leads to inflammation and irritation of the vaginal tissues. Other symptoms might include unusual discharge, pain during urination, and discomfort during sex.
Gonorrhoea
Gonorrhoea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Like Chlamydia, it can infect the genital tract, rectum, and throat.
Gonorrhoea can cause vaginal itching due to the inflammation and irritation it triggers in the vaginal tissues. Other symptoms may include unusual discharge, painful urination, and discomfort during sex.
Herpes
Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which includes HSV-1 and HSV-2. It can affect the genital area, mouth, and other parts of the body.
Herpes can cause vaginal itching because it leads to inflammation and irritation in the affected areas. You might also notice other symptoms like painful sores, blisters, and discomfort when you pee.
Mycoplasma
Mycoplasma, specifically Mycoplasma genitalium (Mgen), is another bacterium that can infect the genital tract, urethra, and rectum.
Mycoplasma can cause vaginal itching due to the inflammation and irritation it triggers in the vaginal tissues. Other symptoms might include unusual discharge, pain during urination, and discomfort during sex.
Trichomonas
Trichomonas, sometimes casually called “trich”, is caused by a tiny parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. You can get it through vaginal, anal, and oral sex, but you can also get it through non-sexual means, like sharing bathwater.
Trichomonas can cause vaginal itching due to the inflammation and irritation it triggers in the vaginal tissues. Other symptoms might include unusual discharge, a fishy odour, and discomfort during urination or sex.
Semen allergy
Seminal plasma hypersensitivity, also known as semen allergy, is a rare allergic reaction to proteins found in semen.
You might experience an allergic reaction with one partner but not another, or it could suddenly appear after years of being with the same partner.
Symptoms can affect any area that comes into contact with semen, such as the vulva, vagina, anus, and mouth.
Typically, symptoms start within 10 to 30 minutes after exposure and can resemble those of vaginitis or certain STDs.
In addition to itching, symptoms of a semen allergy include:
- Pain
- Burning
- Swelling
- Redness
If you suspect you have a semen allergy, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.
Latex allergy
Latex condoms can cause itchiness, redness, and swelling in people who have a latex allergy.
If you do notice an uncomfortable reaction after using a condom during sex, why not try a non-latex alternative?
Jock itch
Jock itch, also known as tinea cruris, can sometimes cause itching around your vaginal area. It’s similar to athlete’s foot, which is often contracted through sharing towels or undergarments, but in this case, it focuses on the groin area.
This type of itching usually occurs around the thighs and crotch. So, if your irritation is more localised inside your vagina, it’s probably not jock itch.
However, if you notice any redness or irritation around these areas that doesn’t go away, it’s worth getting it checked out.
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
BV is a vaginal infection, common amongst women aged 15-44. Caused by an imbalance in bacteria, BV can produce an itching, burning sensation, and vaginal discharge. Discharge produced due to BV is likely to be:
- Watery and thin
- White-grey in colour
- Strong, unpleasant smelling.
Thrush
Thrush, also known as ‘candidiasis’, is a common yeast infection. Thrush can cause your vagina to feel sore and itchy. It may produce a thick, white vaginal discharge and a burning sensation when urinating or having sex.
Find out more about how to distinguish thrush from an STI.
Vaginal dryness
Vaginal dryness can often cause an itching sensation after sex. This itching sensation is often caused by unlubricated friction.
The initial dryness can be caused by:
- Skin conditions like eczema
- Over washing or using certain feminine hygiene products
- Changes in oestrogen levels, like those caused during menopause and childbirth
- Lack of arousal during sex
- Stress or depression
- Medication side-effects, including from birth-control pills and anti-depressants
- Health conditions, such as Sjögren syndrome and diabetes
- Irritants, such as perfume and certain kinds of soap
If you’re experiencing vaginal dryness during intercourse, try a water-based lube for gentle lubrication.
Final thoughts
If you’re worried about your vaginal health, our Sexual Health Advisors are on hand 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our experienced team can help you to choose the right combination of STI tests for you. Contact our advisors by phone or by live chat today.
Don’t leave your sexual health to chance. Get tested with Better2Know today.