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8 Underwear Rules To Live By For A Healthy Vagina

Choosing underwear made of breathable, natural materials like cotton can support your vaginal health, as can other practices like proper cleaning and knowing when to replace your panties.

Your pantie guidebook to cleaning, wearing, and living.

Did you know that certain fabrics are healthier for you, that at certain times, going commando is better, or that underwear (sort of) has an expiration date?

These unspoken underwear rules can affect your vaginal health.

So we did a lot of research, dug through several underwear hygiene studies, and talked to an OB-GYN to collect eight underwear rules to live by.

You may have heard this before, but with all the cute styles in a variety of fabrics out there, it's worth saying again: cotton is the best underwear fabric.

"The vulva is a very sensitive and delicate area, similar to the lips on your face. You want to treat [it] gently," explains Dr. Alyse Kelly-Jones, board certified OB-GYN.

And the most simple, gentle fabric to touch your skin? Cotton. It's also breathable and absorbent, which can help prevent yeast infections.

"Since it is healthy to have a vaginal discharge, similar to the moisture you always have in your mouth, you want your underwear to gently absorb any extra moisture," explains Kelly-Jones.

Cotton vs. Nylon vs. Spandex

Synthetic materials like nylon and spandex don't allow the area to breathe. Instead, they trap heat and moisture, creating a perfect breeding ground for yeast infections.

Natural, breathable fabrics, specifically cotton underwear, are best to support your vaginal health. They may help reduce odor and the risk of yeast infections.

People typically wear one pair of underwear a day and then put it in the laundry to be washed. However, you could wear more than one pair per day if it makes you more comfortable.

You may get away with wearing underwear two days in a row if there's not much discharge or sweat, but studies suggest that most underwear contains a small amount of fecal matter, so you may want to change them daily.

If you start to feel uncomfortable because of vaginal discharge buildup, you can change them more than once a day, as Kelly-Jones reminds her patients.

"Many of my patients are bothered by this moisture and wear pantie liners all of the time," she says. "I think this is not the healthiest of behavior, as liners can cause chafing and irritation. Cotton-lined underwear will solve this problem, and it's OK to change more than once a day."

After they've been worn, toss them in the hamper to wash. Unlike jeans, underwear shouldn't be re-worn just to save on doing a load.

There's a lot of debate about whether or not going underwear-free to bed is better for you.

For those who have a healthy vagina, either choice is fine. For those who deal with regular yeast infections, going pantie-free to bed may make a difference.

Going without a cloth barrier allows the area to breathe overnight and keeps moisture from building up or creating an environment for bacteria to build.

"I believe the vulva area should be exposed to the air, just like any other area of your body," says Kelly-Jones.

If you really don't like the feeling of being naked, Kelly-Jones recommends wearing loose-fitting pajama bottoms. Just remember, if you're going without underwear but are wearing another type of bottom, they need to be washed frequently as well.

Basically, it doesn't hurt to go without underwear overnight.

Whether to go pantie-free or not when working out is a personal preference. If you're wearing shorts that have moisture-wicking underwear built into them, you can forgo the underwear.

Wearing something between you and the fabric may be more comfortable and a healthier way to catch sweat. Typically, this would be a high tech polyester that's light and slick.

If you do choose to wear a pair, Kelly-Jones notes, "The most important thing is to make sure it fits well and doesn't cause chafing."

Once you find your ideal size and style, you can pick from workout-specific underwear options.

It's always been assumed that thongs can't be good for the health of your nether regions.

However, studies haven't found evidence that thongs cause yeast vaginitis (YV), bacterial vaginosis (BV), or urinary tract infections (UTIs), three of the main issues people with vaginas experience. A 2019 study looked at the association of thongs with UTIs, BVs, and YVs and found no evidence supporting the assumption that thongs can cause these issues.

A small, older 2005 study looked directly at string underwear and found that the microenvironment of the vulvar skin didn't change at all due to the style of underwear. The underwear had no effect on the pH, skin microclimate, or aerobic microflora. Instead, they suggested hygiene choices had a bigger impact on causing these conditions.

Douching can increase the risk of infections. A 2022 review suggests douching and washing the vulva with soap or shampoo alters the naturally occurring bacteria and increases the risk of BV.

So feel free to wear a thong when the occasion calls for it. If it feels uncomfortable or your experiencing symptoms of the above conditions, try opting for breathable cotton underwear.

All types of underwear should be handled more gently than the rest of your wardrobe, not just your special lacy, stringy thongs. This isn't because they're your "delicates."

It's mostly because they sit up against your more sensitive skin for long periods. Kelly-Jones recommends using gentle, hypoallergenic soap to wash them because "anything soapy or chemical next to the vulva can lead to irritation, itching, and allergic reactions."

Pro tip: Concerned about the washing machine? Do a hot water and bleach cleanse (about 1/2 cup of bleach to a full wash-spin-drain setting) to sanitize the machine before putting your laundry in.

It sounds excessive, especially for something that gets washed so regularly. But underwear can contain viruses and bacteria that your laundry routine may not be removing, particularly if your underwear is washed in cold water and hung to dry.

Beyond bacteria, there's a chance your underwear could contain feces. The average pair of adult underwear contains a tenth of a gram of fecal matter.

However, throwing out your underwear every year isn't an eco-friendly option. So, if you don't have bacterial problems down there, you may not have to clean out your drawers annually.

But if you do experience BV or other symptoms frequently, you may want to replace your underwear every year.

The best way to wash your underwear

Here are some washing recommendations:

After washing, tumble dry on low heat for 30 minutes: One doctor told the New York Times that tumble drying for 30 minutes or ironing after washing can help minimize new bacteria that's been picked up during the wash.

Sick roommate or family? Don't mix your underwear in the same load: This can help avoid spreading bacteria and viruses to other clothes. Experts also recommend washing in warm water and washing these items sooner rather than letting them sit in the hamper.

Don't mix affected underwear with other pairs or pants if you have BV: This is especially important for people who do laundry less frequently. Do a separate wash to keep the bacteria levels lower and avoidcross-contamination.

Wash underwear separately from clothes with other bodily fluids: In hospitals, wash clothes that have been cross-contaminated (with vomit, blood, urine, etc.) separately. Do the same with your underwear. If there are other fluids, focus on getting the blood or vomit out of the clothes and keeping them away from garments that you wear up against your private parts. For example, if you have a family member who works in a setting where they may have bodily fluids on their clothes, such as a hospital, consider washing the clothes they wear for work separately.

Even though it goes unseen (for the most part), underwear can actually play a major part in how you feel.

Research from 2020 suggests that underwear can affect your mood, help you feel more confident, and increase your sexual desire.

Your moods may be likewise affected by "unattractive" or ill-fitting underwear.

Don't underestimate the power of your most intimate garment or think that just because nobody sees it, it doesn't affect how you feel.

If you're ever feeling a little down, turn to your sexiest pair of panties. Like a power pose, it may give you a nice confidence boost.

What underwear do gynecologists recommend?

Gynecologists typically recommend you wear underwear made from natural fabrics, like cotton. Cotton underwear may help lower the risk of certain infections.

What underwear should you wear to avoid yeast infections?

Cotton underwear can help absorb moisture and prevent yeast infections.

What is the best material for underwear to prevent odor?

Wearing cotton underwear can support your vaginal health and prevent moisture that may lead to odors.

Wearing underwear made from natural fabrics, such as cotton, may help reduce moisture and prevent infections.

Other practices, such as changing underwear daily and drying your underwear at low heat, may also help reduce bacteria, viruses, and yeast that can lead to infection.

Emily Rekstis is a New York City-based beauty and lifestyle writer who writes for many publications, including Greatist, Racked, and Self. If she's not writing at her computer, you can probably find her watching a mob movie, eating a burger, or reading an NYC history book. See more of her work on her website or follow her on Twitter.

What's The Deal With Latex Pillows? We Slept On The Best Ones To Find Out

Ditch the Down Pillow for a Latex One—Here's WhySoumi Sarkar

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

When it comes to sleeping pillows, memory foam and down options tend to get all the attention, but there's something to be said about latex. After sleeping on the best latex pillows for two weeks or more, the House Beautiful editors have determined that this is an underrated material that deserves much more attention than it gets because it's just that good. No, it's not the slippery, shiny latex you'd find in a doctor's office or even on the red carpet. Saatva's Director of Content, Christina Heiser, says it best: "Latex is an all-natural and a hypoallergenic material that is responsive, breathable, and contours to your head and neck."

Though she just mentioned several elements worth noting, we want to focus on one: It's all-natural, which is never a bad thing, considering it's something you'll be in contact with daily. "The healthiest pillow is one made from natural materials that are hypoallergenic and free of harmful chemicals. Good nontoxic materials to look for in a pillow include latex (in the fill) and cotton (in the cover)." The House Beautiful editors took that to heart and ordered some of the Internet's favorite options, from Saatva to Avocado. Keep reading to hear our thoughts on latex, our pillows, and more.

Shop more bedding essentials below: Down Alternative Pillow

Saatva has some of the best bedding on the market, a fact we can gleam for experience. Quite a few of the House Beautiful team members have something from Saatva, including the linen sheets, the Rx and Classic mattresses, and, of course, the latex pillow. Deputy Digital Editor Katelyn Lunders, a happy owner of the now famed Rx mattress tested out the latex pillow and had some thoughts. "I am a huge fan of Saatva's Rx mattress, so I was really excited for the chance to test one of their pillows. Like the brand's mattresses, the latex pillow is designed to keep your neck and head in alignment for quality sleep. I sleep on my back and side, so I tested the high loft pillow, which is designed for side and combination sleepers," she explains. "It's six inches in height, so taller than the pillow I am used to and I actually think I might've preferred the five-inch standard loft version for back sleepers. That being said, I loved how luxurious and cool to the touch the pillow felt. I'd recommend this for anyone who prefers a firmer pillow that is comfortable, durable, hypoallergenic, and machine washable."

Sizes: Standard and kingFill Material: Shredded natural latexCover Material: Organic cottonCare: Machine wash the cover on the gentle cycle, then tumble dry on low or lay flat to dry. Spot clean pillow.

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Down Alternative Pillow

saatva.Com

$165.00

courtesy of house beautiful Premium Latex Pillow

Like so many products that flex their all-natural composition, latex pillows tend to fall on the pricey side of the spectrum, so when we happened upon this Leesa one (a brand most famous for its impressive selection of mattresses), for only $66, we had to add it to the list. Even though latex is naturally cooling, this pillow is even more chill than you'd expect, with ventilated channels that draw heat away from your head. One happy customer said, "Best pillow! It was a recommendation from a friend and I'm so glad I went for it. I have gone through so many pillows with no luck, but this helped my neck pain and I can finally sleep without discomfort."

Sizes: Standard and kingFill Material: 100 percent Talalay latexCover Material: Polyester, TENCEL Lyocel, and rayonCare: Machine wash the cover on the gentle cycle, then tumble dry on low or lay flat to dry.

Shop Now

Premium Latex Pillow

leesa.Com

$66.00

Molded Latex Pillow

Avocado is famous for its use of natural materials, and the molded latex pillow is no exception. It's designed for back and side sleepers because the fill, which is molded from a charcoal-infused latex, makes for improved neck support. "My neck/back did feel great after sleeping on it. No complaints there! I was really looking forward to trying this pillow because sleeping is one of my favorite activities. Right out of the box, it had a distinct odor, reminiscent of hay or hamster bedding," Deputy Managing Editor Sarah Esgro mentions. "That smell never totally went away, but did lessen over time. It was the heaviest pillow I've slept on by far, a good weight though, and sufficiently smushy." Of course, if you like a plush pillow, this will definitely get the job done. "It was cozy—the pillow casing was quilted, which made it warmer than I wanted it to be, especially as someone who sleeps hot, but at the same time felt like a warm hug for my head."

Sizes: Standard, queen, and kingFill Material: Charcoal-infused latexCover Material: Organic cottonCare: Machine wash your cotton cover only in cold water with an eco-friendly laundry detergent. Lay flat or hang to dry.

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Molded Latex Pillow

avocadogreenmattress.Com

$116.00

courtesy of house beautiful Turiya Organic Latex Pillow

"I'm not particularly picky about pillows, but I tend to feel most comfortable on a soft, down one, so when Coyuchi sent me this, I was a bit skeptical," Associate Shopping Editor Jessica Cherner says. "The fact that the brand recommends sleeping on it for a full 30 days before deciding how you feel about it didn't help." Unlike your typical fluffy pillow, this one is on the denser side and complete with three noticeable dips—one large one in the middle and two smaller ones flanking it. The central one is to align your neck and spine when sleeping on your back and the two flanking it are for side sleepers. All three are designed to release any pressure on those areas (neck and back) while you rest. "I fall asleep on my side and eventually roll over onto my back, so this pillow definitely worked for me. Although, I can't lie, the first night was a challenge. It took a while to get used to this because it feels so different than what I'm used to. After two weeks, though, I have completely adapted. It doesn't feel weird at all. The best part, though, is that I don't wake up with any cricks in my neck or soreness in my back because it's actually quite difficult to sleep with your neck in an odd position on this pillow, courtesy of the divots," Cherner adds. Of course, no pillow is perfect, though, and Cherner did have one qualm with hers. "I ordered a standard and this one is definitely on the larger side. I had to really jam it into my pillowcase."

Sizes: StandardFill Material: Organic dunlop latexCover Material: Organic cottonCare: Spot clean latex. Remove and machine-wash pillow cover.

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Turiya Organic Latex Pillow

coyuchi.Com

$148.00

Courtesy of house beautiful Organic Shredded Latex Pillow

"I had truly never heard of latex pillows until I was asked to test one out, but I truly am so happy I learned about them. I was suffering from something so many of us deal with—old, flat pillows—that opening up this bouncy, large, and surprisingly heavy one from Coyuchi left me feeling immediately hopeful," Assistant Editor Meghan Shouse says. "Though there was a definite chemical smell at first, I couldn't detect it through my silk pillowcase, so it didn't bother me once I finally laid my head down to rest." While she did, indeed, have a restful sleep on her new pillow, she admits that the firmness took a bit of getting used to. "I won't lie, the firmness is kind of confusing because it is bulky and fairly firm, but it's also very bouncy. It's very easy to sleep on, and I've been waking up in the mornings without any pain because my head rests on the pillow, it doesn't sink in like it would if it were filled with down." She hasn't gotten rid of her former pillow (yet), but Shouse did say she'd keep trying the latex one out—for now. "I do really enjoy this pillow—it was so different to what I was expecting, but I'm going to keep using it over my old one."

Sizes: Standard, queen, and kingFill Material: Organic dunlop latexCover Material: Organic cottonCare: Spot clean latex as needed.

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Organic Shredded Latex Pillow

coyuchi.Com

$128.00

courtesy of house beautiful Everyday Memory Foam Pillow

Eli & Elm's latex pillow is weighty like some of the other options on this list, courtesy of the five pounds worth of fill that comes with it. You can remove the fill as needed, depending on how stuffed you want your pillow. "Like some of our other editors, I never slept on latex pillows before, but when I heard they were good for people with allergies—I have a lot of allergies—I was game to try," Senior Commerce Editor Marina Liao says. "The pillow was heavier than my down and memory foam options, and I played around with the fill until I felt like it was at a good height and cushion for my head. I am a back sleeper who doesn't toss and turn, so having that support on my spine throughout the night is crucial. This pillow did support my neck and shoulders! I actually like the firmer feeling on pillows, so this is more on the medium-firm side than soft side. I made my husband sleep on this, too, because he was complaining about neck pains from another pillow we had. He is also a back sleeper. One week in, he has not made any efforts to give this pillow back to me—suffice it to say, it's helped him too."

Sizes: QueenFill Material: Dunlop latexCover Material: 37 percent cotton, two percent spandex, and 61 percent polyesterCare: Cover is machine washable, tumble dry on low.

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Everyday Memory Foam Pillow

amazon.Com

$99.99

Courtesy of House Beautiful Organic Solid Latex Pillow

Made with a solid core of extra-soft organic latex harvested from tree sap and wrapped in organic cotton stretch-knit fabric, this is one of the best latex pillows on offer. Make no mistake, though, at five pounds, this pillow is dense and heavy, so if you're looking for something plush and airy, this isn't the pillow for you. Otherwise, enjoy the bouncy nature of this five-star find. It cradles your neck and head in all the right ways, so you'll never wake up with aches.

Sizes: Standard and queenFill Material: 100 percent organic latexCover Material: Organic cottonCare: Spot clean.

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Organic Solid Latex Pillow

potterybarn.Com

$129.00

Latex Foam Bed Pillow

Similar to Naturepedic (and the Leesa one), this pillow is the brainchild of a brand more famous for its mattresses than its bedding accessories, but that doesn't mean it's not worth adding to cart. In fact, this one is so good that it already sold out in the king size, so if you are into it, snap it up fast. It's made from 100 percent talalay latex (latex foam that's made from the sap of the Hevea Brasiliensis rubber tree), so it will pop back into shape the moment there's no weight on it. Plus, the perforated cover means ultimate breathability. One customer said, "This is the best pillow I've ever owned. I bought one four years ago, still a great pillow, but since then, I have ordered two for my husband and son, and got myself another one. It's like sleeping on a cloud. Never flattens. I highly recommend this pillow!"

Sizes: StandardFill Material: 100 percent talalay latexCover Material: CottonCare: Spot clean.

Shop Now

Latex Foam Bed Pillow

walmart.Com

$78.99

How We Tested the Best Latex Pillows

Several of my fellow House Beautiful editors, writers, and I tested the aforementioned latex pillows in our homes for a period of at least two weeks (some of us though, have lived with them for several years) to give us enough time to review them properly. In either case, it's a real testament to the pillows' durability and longevity. It's also worth noting that a few of us started with latex pillows from other brands and had less-than-ideal experiences, so I left these options off the list because we want to recommend only the products we really love. That said, no product is perfect, so none of the testers held back on pointing out some noteworthy cons for shoppers to consider as they shop for this specific type of pillow fill.

As for the rest of the products on the list (the ones we did not test at home), I looked for options at our trusted brands and retailers. I picked out the best latex pillows that look perfectly plush (since latex is known for having a firmer, more dense feel), then read through every single review to see what customers had to say about them. I selected only the ones with the most positive feedback and highest ratings.

Hearst Owned

Is Latex a Good Sleeping Pillow?

The short answer? Yes, latex is a good sleeping pillow. Here's why: Whether you like a firm or plush pillow, ultimately, it needs to be supportive so that you don't wake up with neck pain that comes back every night. Heiser adds, "Latex is buoyant, responsive, cooling, and excels at head and neck support, which is essential for back sleepers." It's also ideal for anyone who sleeps warm. "This fill is best for hot sleepers, as it has better airflow than memory foam and remains cooler against your skin at night." Not to mention, though there are plenty of differences between latex and memory foam (namely, the breathability), these two materials share one huge benefit: They both mold to the contours of your specific head, providing support and easing any pressure on the base of your neck. Lastly, it's a healthier option than anything made with harmful or toxic chemicals because latex is completely natural. Speaking of which, latex is resistant to dust mites, mold, and mildew, which anyone with allergies or respiratory sensitivities may find more comfortable than down or foam pillows.

Hearst Owned

What Is the Lifespan of a Latex Pillow?

Among many other elements, latex is famous for its durability and its ability to quite literally bounce back to its original plump shape once you lift your head up. "We recommend replacing your latex pillows after about three years of regular use," Heiser instructs. That may seem like a short amount of time, but Heiser insists it's much longer than anyone should keep any other type of pillow. "Most experts would advise replacing your pillow every one or two years. Research indicates that after a couple of years of daily use, up to 30 percent of a pillow's weight will be made up of dead skin cells and dust mites, which can cause allergic reactions such as sneezing, watery eyes, and a stuffy nose. If you've been experiencing more allergy-like symptoms, it might be time to replace your old pillow."

Hearst Owned

Coyuchi's shredded latex pillow is one of the fan-favorites on offer. Unlike memory foam, which is just one single unit that you have to kind of just sink into, this is chunks of latex, so it feels more like it's cocooning your head and neck. "It's much more comfortable," Shouse says, who tested this pillow.

Courtesy of House Beautiful

What Is the Difference Between Dunlop and Talalay Latex Pillows?

Though these names may imply that they represent different types of latex, dunlop and talalay actually refer to the method that produces latex. According to Heiser, "In the Dunlop method, rubber tree sap is mixed with non-toxic ingredients, poured into a mold, and baked in a vulcanization oven at 212 degrees Fahrenheit to form a solid. After that, it's taken out of the mold, washed, and then baked for a second time to remove excess moisture." While that is definitely a process, she says the alternative method is even more involved. "With the talalay method, liquid latex is whipped into a froth, poured into a partially filled mold, and then vacuumed to disperse it evenly. The latex is flash-frozen to make it light and airy, then baked into a solid form, washed, and dried," she explains. They both make for different feels: Dunlop is more dense and firm and talalay is a bit more plush and breathable. It just boils down to preference. "There are differences in the latex produced," Heiser notes. "Still, ultimately, the finished construction of the pillow plays a role in how the pillow feels to the sleeper, for example, whether the latex in the pillow is shredded or formed into a shell."

Hearst Owned

We don't generally think of pillows as being particularly innovative, but this one, also from Coyuchi, is an exception. It's more ergonomic than anything else, because it's designed for every kind of sleep position. There are three divots meant for your head: one in the middle for back sleepers and one flanking it for side sleepers.

Courtesy of House Beautiful

Why Trust House Beautiful?

When it comes to picking out the best (and affordable) pieces for any bedroom, including my own, I have been reviewing home products, especially bedding, for nearly eight years. In fact, I currently have six pillows and counting. I have worked with countless interior designers and product designers on what makes something worthy in the home. Not to mention, I've been on a never-ending quest to maximize the comfort and look of my own bed, so you can trust that I've done my homework to find the best and most beloved pieces on the market. Plus, as a shopping editor, I've covered everything you could possible need for your bed, including the best cooling mattress toppers, the softest sheets, the best linen sheets, and even dedicated brand reviews.

For this story, I spoke with Christina Heiser, content director, at Saatva, to understand more about this pretty underrated material. Heiser has been an invaluable member of Saatva's team for more than six years. Though Heiser may not be a sleep scientist or a product developer, she does know a thing or two about both sleep and quality products. Not only has she worked with and tested Saatva's products, but her background also has a serious focus on beauty and health: Before joining Saatva, Heiser worked as a beauty editor at Webedia and Women's Health.

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What To Know About Burning After Sex

Pain during or after sex is called dyspareunia. A person may experience a burning sensation as a result of vigorous sex, friction, a lack of lubrication, a yeast infection, or a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

A burning sensation during or after sex may affect the penis, vaginal area, or anus. Temporary burning sensations can happen due to friction during intercourse, and this kind of burning is unlikely to require medical attention. However, some causes may require treatment.

In this article, we discuss the causes of burning after sex, preventive measures, and when to contact a doctor.

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 article 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:

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 study 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.

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

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.

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:

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.

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

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

Is it normal to have a body ache after sex?

Sexual activity is a form of physical activity. A person may experience 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.

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.

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