Vaginal burning: what causes it and how to feel better fast

Vaginal burning is unpleasant and can come on slowly or suddenly. It’s a symptom, not a diagnosis, so the goal is to figure out what’s behind it. Some causes are easy to treat at home, while others need a clinician’s exam and tests. I’ll walk you through common causes, safe steps to try now, and clear signs that mean see a doctor.

Common causes you should know

Yeast infection (Candida) often causes itching, thick white discharge, and a burning feeling. Over-the-counter antifungal creams or a single‑dose oral pill (fluconazole) usually help, but check with a clinician if it’s your first episode or you’re pregnant.

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) gives a fishy smell, thin grey discharge, and sometimes burning. BV needs prescription antibiotics like metronidazole; home treatments don’t fix it reliably.

Sexually transmitted infections (chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomonas, herpes) can cause burning, pain, or sores. If you’ve had unprotected sex or new partners, get tested. Untreated STIs can cause real harm.

Contact irritation or allergic reaction: scented soaps, douches, spermicide, new laundry detergent, or latex can trigger burning. The vagina is sensitive—stop the new product and see if symptoms ease in a few days.

Atrophic vaginitis (thinning of vaginal tissues) happens after menopause and causes dryness and burning. Low‑dose vaginal estrogen often helps, but you’ll want a clinician to recommend the right option.

Practical steps you can try now

1) Stop using scented soaps, douches, bubble baths, and new hygiene products. These often cause or worsen burning.

2) Wear breathable cotton underwear and loose clothing. Avoid tight jeans and synthetic underwear until you feel better.

3) Try a cool compress or sit in a shallow lukewarm bath for 10–15 minutes to ease burning. Don’t add bath oils or fragrances.

4) For likely yeast infections, a single OTC topical azole (clotrimazole or miconazole) often helps. If symptoms don’t improve in 48–72 hours, stop and see your provider—misdiagnosis is common.

5) Avoid sexual activity until symptoms are cleared or your partner has been checked, especially if there’s a chance of an STI.

If you have heavy bleeding, high fever, severe pain, foul-smelling discharge, painful urination, or symptoms that last more than a week despite home care, see a clinician promptly. Also seek care if you’re pregnant or have a weakened immune system.

If burning keeps returning, ask for a swab and culture. Recurrent symptoms may need a tailored treatment plan, partner treatment, or investigation for allergies and hormonal causes.

Small changes—quitting fragranced products, switching detergents, or using cotton—often stop mild irritation. But don’t guess if symptoms are severe, sudden, or come with other worrying signs. A quick visit can save time and prevent complications.