Experiencing a burning sensation when you urinate, during intimacy or even just when sitting down can set off alarm bells in your head. Is it a vaginal infection? Should I call my doctor? First things first: Yes, you should schedule a visit with your healthcare provider to pinpoint the underlying issue, which could be anything from vaginal dryness to a urinary tract infection (UTI). Whatever the cause, the good news is that there are plenty of home remedies for vaginal burning that can help speed relief, in addition to whatever your doctor recommends. Here, experts share why you might experience vaginal burning and the best natural treatments to reduce pain.
Common causes of vaginal burning
“Vaginal burning is that uncomfortable, sometimes painful sensation in the vaginal area,” says Michael Reed, MD, a board-certified cosmetic and functional gynecologist at the Cosmetic Gyn. “It can happen for many reasons, and some causes include yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, irritation from soaps or douches, hormonal changes or even sexually transmitted infections (STIs).”
The sensation can vary in intensity and flare up in different situations, depending on the underlying cause. For example, if you’re experiencing vaginal burning when peeing, it’s most likely a urinary tract infection, says Sofie Roos, licensed sexologist and relationship therapist at Passionerad. Conversely, if you feel burning during sex, it might be because the vagina is dry or irritated (this becomes more common during menopause).
Another thing to keep in mind? The clothes you wear. That’s right, the type of underwear or pants you wear might cause further vaginal irritation.
Symptoms of vaginal burning
Roos notes vaginal burning doesn’t always feel like burning. “It can also feel like tingling, itching (often like you want to scratch, but can’t since it stings from inside), stinging or throbbing,” she says. It can also be accompanied by symptoms such as:
- Redness or swelling around the vagina or vulva area
- Unusual vaginal discharge (a change in color, smell or consistency)
- Pain when you pee or during sex
“If it doesn’t get better in a few days, gets worse or you notice other symptoms like fever, pelvic pain or a strange discharge, it’s time to see a doctor,” says Dr. Reed. Vaginal infections like a UTI are typically treated with a round of antibiotics, while your doctor will likely prescribe an antifungal medication for a yeast infection.
“It’s important to figure out the cause of the burning in order to find the appropriate treatment, because it is not a one-size-fits-all,” adds Iris Kerin Orbuch, MD, founder of Iris Wings Sanctuary For Endometriosis Surgery and Wellness.
Home remedies for vaginal burning
While you wait for any doctor-prescribed treatment to kick in, you can speed healing from vaginal burning with a few simple, effective home remedies.
A cold compress soothes inflammation
It’s not surprising that a cold compress (or a bag of ice wrapped in a towel) is one of the best ways to stop vaginal burning. Dr. Reed says this is the simplest way to calm down inflammation and ease irritation. Apply the compress to the vulva for 10 minutes and repeat as needed throughout the day.
Tip: You can boost the benefits of your compress with a splash of milk. Simply wrap ice in a soft washcloth, then dip the cloth in a cup of whole milk before applying the vulva (always externally, never internally). “Enzymes in milk help quell the discomfort,” Dr. Orbuch says.
Probiotics restore healthy bacteria
The vagina is filled with healthy bacteria such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, lactobacillus rhamnosus and lactobacillus reuteri. These beneficial bacterial strains help maintain balance and prevent “bad” bacteria from overgrowing and causing symptoms like vaginal burning. That’s why Dr. Reed suggests eating plain, natural yogurt daily—it’s packed with “good” bacteria that can help restore your vaginal health.
Baking soda balances vaginal pH
A normal vaginal pH is between 3.8 and 4.5, leaning on the more acidic side of the spectrum. If your vaginal pH is thrown off balance (which can happen from sex, menopause or douching), it can trigger painful vaginal burning. Fortunately, “a baking soda bath balances the pH and soothes discomfort because of its antifungal and antimicrobial properties,” says Dr. Reed.
Simply add 4 to 5 Tbs. of baking soda to a tub filled with lukewarm water. Soak for 10 minutes, one to three times daily until symptoms subside.
Coconut oil reduces dryness
Coconut oil acts as a natural moisturizer and can be especially helpful for relieving irritation or itching from vaginal dryness. Simply apply a small amount (about ¼ tsp.) externally to the vagina and vulva once daily or as needed. Research backs this strategy up: A study in the International Journal of Dermatology found that applying virgin coconut oil daily reduced dryness for 93 percent of women.
Swapping household items calms irritation
If dryer sheets and detergents are causing vaginal burning, Dr. Orbuch says to stop utilizing a dryer sheet and add an extra rinse cycle when you wash your underwear and any other clothing that touches the vulvar/vaginal area. You should also switch to a fragrance-free detergent. “Likewise, if the soap that you use in the shower is irritating you, you need to find a more natural soap with less chemicals and less ingredients,” she adds.
Dr. Reed also suggests switching to breathable fabrics like cotton underwear. “It keeps things breathable and prevents extra irritation from tight or synthetic fabrics,” he says.
This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan.
