Picture this: you're snuggling up in bed with your S/O watching your favourite Netflix show, when inevitably, things start to get a little heated. After a bit of fumbling around, the clothes come off, things get sweaty, and you end up having the best sex ever. But then, after you've completed multiple bedroom workouts, you find yourself feeling a bit itchy down there and instantly start to worry.
While this scenario doesn't sound ideal in the slightest, an itchy vulva or vagina after sex is actually more common than you'd think. It's also typically pretty harmless, and in the majority of cases, can be easily fixed or treated. Phew.
So, if you've ever found yourself in this situation, and want to know what might have caused it, or what you can do about it, stick around. We tapped the experts to explain all things itchy vagina after sex to give you complete peace of mind...
What causes itching after sex?
There are a whole host of reasons why your vagina might feel itchy during or after sex, and it doesn't always mean that there's something seriously wrong. So, in no particular order, some common causes may include:
Irritation
Health Expert and NHS doctor Dr Frankie Jackson-Spence explains that an itchy vagina is often a symptom of Vaginitis, which femfresh say is caused by irritation of the vagina.
There are a number of causes for irritation, including a lack of lubrication, an infection, hormonal changes during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause, the doctor adds. Additionally, dryness and itchiness can also be brought on by conditions like eczema, or from using perfumed soaps, washing or douches near the vagina.
How to prevent irritation
Instead of perfumed soap, using a pH-balanced intimate wash can help, the doctor advises. Plus, avoid douching the vagina directly and instead just wash with warm water. It's self-cleaning anyway, and constant rubbing with fragranced products can quickly dry out and irritate the vagina.
Friction during sex
Funnily enough, an uncomfortable post-sex itch can occur because of the sex you just had. Dr Jackson-Spence notes that "friction can occur if the area isn't adequately lubricated or aroused before sex."
How to prevent friction
The good news is that this can easily be sorted and any future mishaps can be prevented, either with a water-based lube or by warming up with more foreplay.
The medical expert also states that if your vagina feels itchy after sex and you reckon it's also down to friction, remember to be particularly kind to your skin afterwards. So as above, that's no fragranced products, and just warm water for washing.
An infection
Though we said that the majority of itchy vulva and vagina cases after sex are often harmless, it is important to note that it can sometimes be the sign of an infection, like thrush. Because, according to health website Canesten, 3 out of 4 women will get thrush at least once in their lifetime. But before you worry, know that it's very easily treatable.
Dr Jackson-Spence says: "Thrush is a really common infection caused by a yeast infection called Candida Albicans which causes the vulva skin to become dry and sore, and this can be uncomfortable or painful during sex." Alongside itching, other thrush symptoms can include white discharge, a stinging sensation while weeing, and the area feeling sore and uncomfortable.
How to prevent an infection
Thrush symptoms can easily be eased by creams, pessaries (a soluble block inserted into the vagina) and sometimes a tablet, Dr Jackson-Spence explains. Many treatments are available over the counter from a pharmacist, but speak to your GP if you're worried – and remember to avoid sex while you've got thrush.
Best products for itching after sex
Lovehoney Lovehoney Enjoy Water-Based Lubricant 250ml
vagisil Vagisil Medicated Creme - 30g
An STI
"It's important to note that any change to your normal down below is worth keeping an eye on," says Dr Jackson-Spence. But don't automatically jump to any conclusions. "The most likely cause of irritation during sex will be inadequate lubrication," she adds.
However, "other infections such as sexually transmitted infections can cause irritation, discomfort and itching of the vagina and vulval skin." According to the government website, in 2023 there were 401,800 diagnoses of new STIs - an increase of 4.7% since 2022.
How to prevent an STI
It's common knowledge that you should always use barrier protection like a condom and get regular checks to protect yourself from STIs. Plus, Dr Jackson-Spence reminds us that often, "STIs can present with no symptoms," so don't wait for potential signs to appear before getting tested.
She adds: "Visit your doctor or sexual health clinic if something doesn't seem 'quite right' down there, particularly if your symptoms don't self-resolve after a week or if they develop after having sex with a new partner." Things to look out for might include a change in vaginal discharge, any new lumps of sores appearing, pain during sex, and bleeding after sex or in between your normal periods, she explains.
Finally, the medical expert reiterates that irritation can be caused by the condom or lubricant itself - especially if you're prone to allergies. In this instance, she recommends switching the brand rather than stopping using them, as this can put you at risk of unwanted pregnancy or an STI.
Should you see a doctor if you’re itching after sex?
As a general piece of advice, Dr Jackson-Spence encourages speaking to a doctor if the symptoms persist after a few days to a week, and you've tried lubricating the area.
She explains that infections "such as thrush or STIs can be quickly and easily spotted and treated," so it's better to be safe and get checked out. And regardless, getting a sexual health checkup should be something you do regularly anyway if you are sexually active.
You can get one at your GP, as well as walk-in sexual health centres, or for some you can even order a test kit online from your local sexual health service.
This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Emily Gulla was Cosmopolitan UK’s Former Editorial Assistant/Junior Entertainment and Lifestyle Writer, covering celebs, TV and film for the site, magazine and video. She’s interviewed the casts of your favourite TV shows, from Bridgerton to Derry Girls and Stranger Things, as well as dozens of Love Islanders. She also loves getting stuck into long-read features, writing on all things digital culture (including her favourite topic: memes), and dating - having appeared on the radio to discuss dating.
Emily's work has also been published on ELLE, Women's Health, Harper's Bazaar, Digital Spy and more. She holds a First Class degree in English with Film Studies from King's College London, and even wrote her dissertation on Love Island. You can find Emily on Instagram and LinkedIn, and can see more of her work on her website.
Sophie Williams is a Freelance Journalist and Copywriter, covering everything from Fashion to Entertainment to music, Lifestyle and Features. She has interviewed a range of musical artists and authors including Alyssa Edwards, Courtney Barnett, Confidence Man, The Vaccines, Loyle Carner, Gabrielle, and John Niven, and has written for publications like Metro, Reader's Digest, ITV's Woo! and Vice’s NBGA. She is also working on a book for HarperCollins about Taylor Swift, due to be published in 2024.
