Vaginal itching and dyspareunia, or pain during sexual intercourse, are common symptoms experienced by sexually active women. These types of symptoms are often signs of infection, and affected women should seek prompt care from a medical professional. Antibiotic or antifungal medication may be necessary to resolve the cause of vaginal itching and dyspareunia.
Vaginal Infections
Vaginal infections, such as a yeast infection, can cause both vaginal itching and dyspareunia in women, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. Irritation of the sensitive vaginal tissue caused by infection can lead to vaginal inflammation, tenderness or soreness. Women who experience these symptoms can also develop dull or sharp sensations of pain during sexual penetration of the vagina. Vaginal infections typically cause additional symptoms in women, including unusual or discolored vaginal discharge or vaginal odor.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Diseases contracted during sexual intercourse or contact with an infected person can cause vaginal itching and dyspareunia symptoms in women. Trichomoniasis, chlamydia and gonorrhea are types of sexually transmitted infections that can cause pain during sex and vaginal irritation. A sexually transmitted disease can also cause additional symptoms, including vaginal or anal skin lesions, flu-like symptoms and painful urination. Women who develop these symptoms after having unprotected sex, especially with a new partner, should seek care from a doctor as soon as possible. These infections are highly contagious, and infected women can spread the infection to healthy intimate partners.
Chemical Irritants
Vaginal irritation instigated by a chemical irritant can contribute to both vaginal itching and dyspareunia symptoms in women. Women who are hypersensitive to latex condoms or spermacides may experience these symptoms during or after sexual intercourse if either of these birth control methods are utilized, MayoClinic.com reports. Avoiding vaginal exposure to known chemical irritants, such as laundry detergent, vaginal creams or latex, typically resolves allergen-induced vaginal itching or sexual pain symptoms. If these symptoms persist, affected women should consult a doctor for further evaluation and care.
Menopause
During menopause, the amount of estrogen within a woman's body progressively declines. Insufficient estrogen levels can cause a woman's vaginal skin to become thin or tight, which can lead to vaginal dryness, irritation or itching. Hormonal changes can also reduce the size or shape of a woman's vagina. Such changes during menopause can contribute to pain during sexual intercourse. If these symptoms are bothersome, women can talk with a doctor about potential treatment options, such as vaginal lubrication or hormone replacement therapy.
References
- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: When Sex is Painful
- MayoClinic.com: Painful Intercourse (Dyspareunia) - Causes
- MedlinePlus: Sexual Intercourse - Painful
- Illinois Department of Public Health: Facts About Vaginitis and Vaginal Infections
- WomenHealth.gov: Sexually Transmitted Infections
