What to know about burning after sex

Possible causes of burning after sex 

Some potential causes of pain after sex include:

• Sexual position: Certain sexual positions can cause uncomfortable sensations for some people. Some positions may also intensify the pain of other conditions. For example, rear-entry positions or deep thrusting can cause discomfort in those with a tilted cervix.
• Anatomical differences: Anatomical differences, such as the shape of a person’s genitals, may result in higher levels of friction during sex. For example, a 2018 articleTrusted Source notes that partners of people with higher degrees of penile curvature were more likely to report pain during penetrative intercourse.
• Rough sex: Rough sex, especially without enough lubrication, can result in irritation.
• Lack of lubrication: When there is inadequate lubrication, sex can be painful for either partner and cause burning sensations.
• Psychological and relationship factors: Some people experience pain during or after sex because of anxiety or distress about sex, the relationship, or past sexual experiences. Sometimes psychological stress may cause a person to unconsciously tense up, which can make sex uncomfortable.
• STIs: Certain STIs, such as gonorrhea or trichomoniasis, may cause burning during or after intercourse.
• Infections: Various infections can cause burning or pain. These include urinary tract infections, urethritis, or yeast infections. People with a vagina may also experience bacterial vaginosis, and those with a prostate may experience prostatitis.
• Allergies and skin irritation: Allergies may irritate the genitals, and friction may also be a factor, especially when there is not enough lubrication. A person may have an allergic reaction to the following:
  • latex
  • spermicides
  • lubricants
  • lotions
  • perfumes

Potential causes in gender diverse individuals

According to a 2022 study, dyspareunia appears to be more common among transmasculine individuals than cisgender females. The study’s authors state that the use of testosterone did not appear to increase the risk of dyspareunia or vulvar pain and that more research is necessary.

However, a 2024 studyTrusted Source suggests the use of testosterone among gender diverse people with vaginas may have associations with vaginal pain and discomfort during sexual activity. It notes that testosterone use decreases estrogen levels in vaginal tissue, which may link to reduced lubrication and increased discomfort during sexual activity.

The authors point out that the causes of vulvovaginal pain are poorly understood and likely to also include psychological and social factors, such as gender affirmation. They state that since available data suggests over 60% of transgender men experience vulvovaginal pain during sexual activity, there is an urgent need to identify effective treatment options for this population.

Prevention 

It is not always possible to prevent pain during sex, but strategies that may help include:

• Switching positions: People can track what types of sex and positions seem to cause burning. Some may notice the burning is worse after long sex sessions without lubrication or friction from a specific position. If intercourse is painful, people may prefer to focus on oral sex or masturbation.
• Using more lubrication: Dryness increases friction, which can irritate the skin. Those who experience vaginal irritation or sensitivity can choose water-soluble lubricants. Silicone-based lubricants last longer and are more slippery but can dissolve or weaken latex condoms.
• Communicating: Some people may feel uncomfortable expressing their sexual wishes or talking about sexual pain. However, open communication makes it easier to experiment and find what works. Some people may find sex therapy or other forms of counseling beneficial.
• Switching to latex-free condoms: Those with an allergy or sensitivity to latex can use alternative options, such as condoms made from polyurethane or polyisoprene.
• Considering physical therapy: Some injuries to the genitals, especially vaginal tears from giving birth, may cause chronic pain. Pelvic floor exercises may help ease this pain.
• Practicing safer sex: Practicing safer sex by using barrier methods of protection can reduce the risk of contracting an STI.

A person may also wish to take preventive steps before intercourse, such as:

• emptying the bladder
• taking a warm bath
• taking an over-the-counter pain reliever

For those with a penis

Causes of a burning sensation during or after sex in a person with male reproductive organs include:

Penile infections

Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate. The acute form of this condition usually appears suddenly due to an infection. Some people with prostatitis experience burning during or after sex or when they ejaculate or urinate.

The chronic form of prostatitis develops slowly over time. It may come and go or get steadily worse. This condition can make urination painful or difficult, and a person may experience erectile dysfunction.

Both types of prostatitis are treatable. Acute prostatitis usually responds to antibiotics, though chronic prostatitis can be more tricky to manage. It often requires a comprehensive treatment approach.

It is also possible for a yeast infection to affect a person with a penis. They may experience an itching and burning feeling on the penis. Antifungal medication usually helps resolve this infection.

Injuries to the penis

An injury to the penis may make sex painful. For example, friction from sex may irritate a cut or scrape, potentially causing burning on the skin’s surface. Bruising and internal injuries may also hurt more after sex.

Learn more about the causes of penis burning.

For those with a vagina

A person with female reproductive organs may experience a burning sensation during or after sex for the following reasons:

Vaginal infections

Various vaginal infections may cause pain during and after sex.

Vaginal yeast infections can cause itching and burning, a cottage cheese-like discharge, and vaginal pain. A person can also experience pain during intercourse.

Bacterial vaginosis, a bacterial infection of the vagina, can also cause sensations such as pain, itching, or burning during or after sex. A person may notice a discharge that has a strong, fishy smell, particularly after sex.

Vulvodynia

Vulvodynia is a chronic condition that causes pain in the vagina or vulva, usually near the vaginal opening.

The type of pain and its triggers vary from person to person. However, sex is a common trigger.

A lack of lubrication

Without sufficient lubrication, sex may feel painful. After sex, a person may notice burning. In some cases, the lack of lubrication may cause vaginal injuries. This can happen for several reasons, including:

• menopause
• prolonged sex that causes the vagina to stop producing lubrication
• hormonal changes linked to giving birth
• anxiety about sex or the relationship
• certain medications, including some antidepressantsTrusted Source

Vaginal injuries

A vaginal injury can cause intense pain during and after sex. Some causes of vaginal injuries include:

• friction or dryness during intercourse or other sexual activity, such as inserting a penis, finger, or other object
• shaving the pubic area
• vaginal delivery

Cervical issues

Some people find that sexual acts that make contact with their cervix are painful, causing a burning that feels like it is deep in the vagina or stomach. The pain can sometimes continue after sex.

Some STDs, such as gonorrhea, can cause cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix).

Learn more about vaginal burning after sex.

Treatment and relief

If the cause of pain is friction or vigorous sex, a person may find that applying a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a towel to the vulva or penis provides relief.

A person may also speak with a doctor or pharmacist who, depending on the cause, may suggest:

• topical creams, ointments, or gels
• antibiotics to treat bacterial infections, such as some STIs or bacterial vaginosis
• antifungal medications to treat yeast infections
• hormonal therapy for those experiencing menopause

When to contact a doctor 

Pain after sex can cause worry, but it does not always indicate a serious problem. If it happens once or if there is an obvious cause, such as rough sex or a lubricant allergy, the person can typically manage the symptoms at home.

However, people should contact a doctor if:

• the pain is chronic (not just after sex), gets worse, or is unbearable
• they have other symptoms, such as a fever or burning when they urinate
• home remedies do not relieve the pain

Frequently asked questions

Is it normal to have a body ache after sex?

Sexual activity is a form of physical activity. A person may experienceTrusted Source body aches after sex as a result of a muscle cramp or strain.

Learn more about cramps after sex.

Can sperm cause a burning sensation?

Although rare, some people have a sensitivity or allergy to semen. A person may experience severe burning, itching, or tingling affecting the vulvovaginal area. Redness or other color changes, swelling, and blistering can also develop.

These symptoms typically appear immediately after coming into contact with semen. People can prevent the symptoms by using condoms.

What causes abdominal pain after sex?

There are many causes of abdominal pain after sex, including deep penetration, muscle spasms, or digestive issues, such as gas and constipation.

However, this pain may also indicate an underlying health condition, such as an STI or a condition affecting the prostate, uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, or rectum.

Summary 

There are many potential causes of a burning sensation after sex. People may treat some of these causes at home, while others require medical attention.

Sex does not have to be painful, and no one should have to live with post-sex pain. If symptoms do not go away, a person can seek help from a doctor who specializes in sexual health.