Females: Pain/Burning During Or After Penetration / Question
Published: September 24, 2007
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Me and my boyfriend of almost a year started having sex, I am on birthcontrol and we use a condom everytime we have sex. But after sex my vagina burns. It can't be an std because we were both virgins and we use protection. Can you tell me what might be the problem?
Signed: Vagina Burns After Sex
Dear Vagina Burns After Sex,
TeenHealthFX would like to start by congratulating you on making a decision to practice safer sex. By using a condom every time you have sex, as well as using a back-up birth control method, you are following the recommendations we give for all teens in terms of being protected from unwanted pregnancies and the transmission of STIs.
Since you are experiencing a burning sensation in your vagina following sex, TeenHealthFX recommends that you consult with a healthcare professional about your symptoms. FX has listed some possibilities below of what might be causing this burning sensation given your statement that you do practice safer sex every time you have sex – however, only a consultation with a doctor can provide you with a totally accurate diagnosis of what you are experiencing. But possibilities can include:
- The condom may need to be more lubricated. Without lubrication, the dryness and friction can cause a burning and irritated sensation for you (and for your partner, too). So you might want to try a water-based lubricant (like KY jelly) when you have sex, lubricating the inside and outside of the condom prior to use.
- If your boyfriend is doing anything during sex that feels physically uncomfortable for you, tell him right away to stop and try to guide him into something that feels more pleasurable for you and that does not cause you any pain.
- It is possible that you may have an allergy to latex condoms, in which case you can try polyurethane condoms to see if that improves things for you.
If you don't have a doctor and live in northern
Signed: TeenHealthFX
A national study of women ages 15-44 found that women were almost twice as likely to receive contraceptive services rather than STD services.
