A vaginal burning sensation after intercourse during pregnancy is generally caused by the same things that can cause burning after intercourse at any other time. These include yeast infections and other vaginal infections. Sharp vaginal pain, related or unrelated to intercourse, can also be caused by varicose veins, especially later in pregnancy.
What causes it?
Yeast infections and other vaginal infections are more common during pregnancy because the hormonal changes in the body can change the pH balance of the vagina. Other common signs of yeast infections include vaginal itching, and thick, white discharge. Discharge that is yellow, green, or strong-smelling may be a sign of a different type of vaginal infection.
Sex, as well as exercise and standing up for a long time, can also cause pain for women with vulvar varicose veins, or varicose veins in the vulva. The added pressure caused by physical changes including increased blood volume during pregnancy is when vulvar varicose veins are most common.
Tips?
Yeast infections during pregnancy can be treated with the same topical, over the counter medications that are used to treat yeast infections outside of pregnancy, but it’s a good idea to check in with your healthcare provider first, to make sure it’s definitely a yeast infection.
There aren’t many treatment options for vulvar varicose veins during pregnancy, but avoiding standing for too long without a break, swimming, and elevating your hips when lying down can all help relieve pressure, which can help to relieve the pain.
Sources
- Mary M. Murry. “Vulvar varicose veins: I have varicose veins where?” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic, September 11 2013. Web.
- Yvonne Butler Tobah. “Yeast infection during pregnancy: Are over-the-counter treatments okay?” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic, OCTOBER 29 2015. Web.
- “Yeast Infection and Vaginitis.” Planned Parenthood. Planned Parenthood, 2017. Web.
