Why Does It Burn After I Pee After Intercourse? Causes and Options

To begin with, do not panic: A burning sensation after intercourse is frequent, and would not robotically imply you will have a major problem (although it may be signal of some underlying well being situations).

Right here, Barbara M. Chubak, MD, an affiliate professor within the division of urology at Icahn College of Medication at Mount Sinai, solutions all of your burning questions, together with what’s up with burning pee after intercourse, the way to forestall it, and when to see your physician.

High causes it burns once you pee after intercourse

Why does it harm to pee after intercourse? Listed here are some culprits:

1. Your genital pores and skin is irritated

For those who had intercourse or did not use sufficient lube, your non-public components may really feel slightly chafed from all of the friction. This irritation could make peeing after intercourse painful. Usually, “our genital pores and skin is structured to tolerate contact with the urine with out ache,” Dr. Chubak says. “However irritation of the pores and skin across the urethral meatus can compromise its barrier operate and make it much less tolerant of publicity to the chemical irritants in urine,” she says. In different phrases, your irritated pores and skin is extra vulnerable to the sting of urine.

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deal with it:

Fortunately, the burning ought to go away after a day or two. Within the meantime, give your genitals an opportunity to heal. Possibly save the attractive time for a later date.

2. You had an allergic response

Lately modified the model of condoms, lube, spermicide, or cleaning soap you utilize? Your burning pee may very well be an allergic response or sensitivity to one thing in these merchandise, in accordance with Columbia Well being. And consider it or not, sperm could cause burning sensations. It is uncommon, however typically the proteins in your associate’s semen can set off an immune response, affecting the pores and skin round your genital space (and wherever else semen touches, like your palms or mouth), per the Mayo Clinic.

Whereas anybody can get an allergic response from semen, it is extra frequent in individuals with vaginas. Together with burning pores and skin, you might also have the next signs, per the Mayo Clinic:

• Change in pores and skin colour
• Burning or swelling the place semen contacts pores and skin or vaginal tissues
• Hives
• Itching
• Problem respiration, in extreme circumstances (Search rapid medical consideration if so.)

deal with it:

For those who’re allergic to lube or latex, toss that product to the curb. For those who assume semen is the perpetrator, attain out to your physician to debate remedy or therapy choices.

3. You will have a UTI

At all times getting UTIs after intercourse? Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are infamous for inflicting burning pee. Intercourse tends to set off UTIs as a result of the friction from all of the skin-to-skin rubbing can unfold micro organism, per UW Medication. Whereas tons of micro organism already reside in your pores and skin (and in your anus) with out inflicting points, they will create issues once they journey to your urinary tract.

Folks with vaginas are extra liable to UTIs as a result of their urethras (i.e., pee tubes) are shorter and nearer to their anus. Different frequent UTI signs embody the next, per the Mayo Clinic:

• A robust urge to urinate that does not go away
• Urinating usually, and passing small quantities of urine
• Urine that appears cloudy
• Urine that seems crimson, shiny pink or cola-colored (indicators of blood within the urine)
• Robust-smelling urine
• Pelvic ache, particularly within the heart of the pelvis and across the space of the pubic bone

deal with it:

For those who suspect you will have a UTI, don’t let it slide. See your physician who can prescribe an antibiotic. Left untreated, the an infection can unfold to your kidneys, presumably inflicting everlasting kidney harm or sepsis—a doubtlessly life-threatening complication of an an infection, in accordance with the Mayo Clinic.

4. It is a sexually transmitted an infection (STI)

An STI may very well be answerable for the stinging ache once you pee post-sex. Each bacterial STIs (like chlamydia, trichomonas, and gonorrhea) and viral STIs (like herpes simplex virus) could cause a burning sensation once you urinate, per Columbia Well being.

deal with it:

In case your ache whereas peeing doesn’t go away after a day or two, contemplate getting an STI take a look at. You don’t wish to unintentionally unfold an STI to your associate. Upon getting a analysis, your physician can prescribe an applicable remedy, like antibiotics, to deal with the an infection. Left unchecked, a bacterial an infection can develop right into a UTI or prostatitis, i.e., irritation of the prostate gland (extra on this later), per Columbia Well being.

5. Your have an infected urethra

An infected, swollen urethra could be making your pee really feel stingy. That is referred to as urethritis—i.e., irritation of the urethra normally attributable to an an infection. “Urethritis could be attributable to many micro organism, together with STIs like gonorrhea and chlamydia, and UTIs corresponding to E. coli and different micro organism that usually reside within the digestive tract,” Dr. Chubak says.

“Throughout sexual exercise, micro organism could be pushed into the urethra,” she says. “That is usually not an instantaneous explanation for burning proper after intercourse, however will manifest signs inside days.” Different indicators of urethritis could embody the next, per the Cleveland Clinic:

• Ache or burning throughout intercourse (dyspareunia)
• Itchiness on the tip of the urethra
• Penile discharge, together with pus, and/or blood
• Pelvic ache

deal with it:

Antibiotics are the highest therapy for urethritis, so you may have to go to the physician. NSAIDs (like Ibuprofen) may help relieve ache when you’re therapeutic.

6. You will have interstitial cystitis (IC)

Like an infected urethra, an irritated bladder could make your pee burn, too. “Interstitial cystitis (irritation of the bladder within the absence of any infectious trigger) just isn’t in itself a explanation for burning after urination, however is ceaselessly related to hypertonicity (or a failure of leisure) of the pelvic ground muscle tissues,” Dr. Chubak says. “If the pelvic ground muscle tissues are tense and unable to stretch to create house for the urine to movement out of the bladder with out resistance, it may possibly trigger burning ache with urination,” she says.

Folks with IC could also be extra liable to burning after intercourse. “Intercourse, and particularly orgasm, is an intense pelvic ground muscle train,” Dr. Chubak says. “If the muscle tissues are drained proper after intercourse and comparatively rigid, this failure of muscle leisure could cause ache, in addition to hesitancy of urination and problem with bladder emptying,” she says.

Different frequent signs of interstitial cystitis embody the next, per Johns Hopkins Medication:

• Frequent urination
• Urgency with urination
• Emotions of stress, ache, and tenderness across the bladder, pelvis, and the world between the anus and vagina or anus and scrotum (perineum)
• Ache throughout intercourse
• Worsening signs are your interval

IC just isn’t an an infection, however as a result of some signs overlap with UTI, it may be arduous to inform the distinction, Dr. Chubak says. That’s why it’s finest to see your physician for those who’re uncertain.

deal with it:

Sadly, IC can’t be cured and isn’t at all times simple to deal with. Therapies range from individual to individual, however could embody choices like eating regimen adjustments (limiting or eliminating meals—like alcohol, tomatoes, spices, chocolate, citrus, caffeine, and high-acid meals—which will irritate the bladder), bladder coaching, and medication. In additional extreme circumstances, chances are you’ll want surgical procedure, per Johns Hopkins Medication.

7. It is urethral sounding

“Urethral sounding, by which a overseas object is positioned contained in the urethra, is a supply of sexual pleasure for some,” Dr. Chubak says. When finished correctly (extra on this later), it may be secure. However for those who don’t use sufficient lube or correctly clear the article (like a intercourse toy) beforehand, it’s attainable to annoy or injure the urethra, she says. And this will result in painful peeing.

deal with it:

You can also make sounding secure (and keep away from harming the urethra) by ensuring you utilize clear toys and many lube, Dr. Chubak says. For secure urethral sounding, contemplate:

• Sterilizing toys beforehand
• Utilizing the right-sized toy for you
• Doing it slowly and gently

High causes when you’ve got a vagina

Having a vagina places you at increased danger for sure points that may make your pee sting. This could embody:

1. pH steadiness disruption

Your vagina has a fragile pH steadiness. So when one thing throws it off, your pH can rise and lead to irritation, Dr. Chubak says. “The barrier operate of the pores and skin that covers the vulvar vestibule and vagina could be compromised not solely by mechanical abrasion (as talked about above) but additionally by adjustments in its hormonal setting,” Dr. Chubak says.

One main explanation for hormonal adjustments is menopause, which causes a drop in estrogen. This could have an effect on the functioning of the genitals, pelvic ground, bladder, and urethra. Modifications to your vaginal microbiome (like much less wholesome micro organism) may have an effect on your hormone ranges, she says. On prime of this, drugs, cleansers, and infections may disturb vaginal pH, too.

deal with it:

Keep away from merchandise that may mess along with your vagina’s pH, like harsh or scented soaps. For those who assume hormone adjustments, an infection, or a medicine is the perpetrator, inform your physician ASAP. You’ll be able to work collectively to determine the basis trigger.

2. Hormonal contraception

Whereas the tablet is a good way to forestall being pregnant, it may possibly include negative effects—one in every of them being vaginal irritation. “A aspect impact of oral contraceptive drugs is usually a relative discount in genital sex-hormone ranges, much like genitourinary syndrome of menopause,” Dr. Chubak says. As we realized, menopause “compromises the barrier operate of the pores and skin,” she says.

deal with it:

For those who’re getting disagreeable negative effects from the tablet, let your physician know. They will prescribe a special sort of tablet or contraception choice.

3. Bacterial vaginosis

A burning feeling once you pee is a typical signal of bacterial vaginosis (BV). This vaginal an infection occurs when the dangerous micro organism in your vagina develop uncontrolled and disrupt the wholesome steadiness of your genital microbiome. Something that adjustments your vagina’s pure steadiness (like douching or unprotected intercourse) can tip the scales towards imbalance, per the Mayo Clinic.

About 80 p.c of individuals with BV are asymptomatic, so they do not even know they’ve it. However for the small proportion of people that do get signs, a stinging sensation whereas peeing is frequent. Different signs can embody the next, per the Mayo Clinic:

• Skinny vaginal discharge which may be grey, white, or inexperienced
• Foul smelling, “fishy” vaginal odor
• Vaginal itching
• Burning throughout urination

deal with it:

Questioning the way to cease vaginal burning from BV? See your physician for antibiotics. If untreated, BV could make you extra vulnerable to STIs and might have an effect on being pregnant, per the Mayo Clinic.

4. Yeast an infection

Just like BV, a yeast an infection occurs when a sort of yeast in your vagina (referred to as candida) overgrows and causes issues (like irritation and burning once you pee). An overgrowth of yeast can occur every time one thing adjustments in your vagina’s setting. Widespread examples embody menstruation, being pregnant, sure meds, diabetes, or a weak immune system, per Deliberate Parenthood:

Yeast infections may also be uncomfortable, particularly the longer they’re untreated. Signs could together with the next, per Deliberate Parenthood:

• Itching, burning, and/or redness in or across the vagina
• Discomfort or ache throughout intercourse
• Fissures or sores in your vagina or vulva (in excessive circumstances)
• Thick, white, clumpy vaginal discharge that normally doesn’t scent (or solely smells barely completely different than regular)
• A creamy, whitish coating in and round your vagina

deal with it:

Most yeast infections could be handled with over-the-counter (OTC) anti-fungal medicines (like Monistat and different manufacturers). If signs don’t resolve with OTC meds, see your physician who may have to prescribe a stronger drug.

5. Vaginal dryness

Ever thought why does my vagina burn after intercourse? You can be coping with vaginal dryness. That is usually from a drop in estrogen, which might occur throughout menopause or for those who’re breast- or chestfeeding. When estrogen is low, your vaginal and vulvar tissue can get thinner and drier, per College Hospitals. This could result in urinary signs like ache whereas peeing and frequent UTIs.

deal with it:

Whereas vaginal dryness is extremely frequent amongst postmenopausal individuals (as much as 50 p.c expertise it, per College Hospitals), it’s not a standard a part of getting older. Meaning, you do not have to simply “suck it up.” Let your physician know what you are going by. You’ll be able to focus on therapy choices collectively—together with meds and life-style adjustments.

High causes when you’ve got a penis

There are a number of explanation why somebody with a penis would have burning pee after intercourse. This contains:

1. Prostatitis

Burning pee may very well be related to prostate difficulty—the tiny, walnut-sized gland situated just under the bladder in individuals with penises. It could be prostatitis—or irritation of the prostate—that causes tough or painful urination. Some circumstances develop from bacterial infections, whereas different instances, the explanations aren’t clear, in accordance with the Mayo Clinic. Signs usually embody frequent urination, cloudy or bloody urine, ache within the stomach or decrease again, and ache within the scrotum, amongst others.

deal with it:

Therapy will rely upon the trigger. If it is from micro organism, your physician will prescribe an antibiotic. They might additionally counsel alpha-blockers to loosen up the bladder and surrounding muscle tissues when you heal, per the Mayo Clinic.

2. Penile harm

Although much less frequent, a penile fracture might trigger ache whereas peeing. Technically the penis doesn’t have bones, however you’ll be able to “break” it by bending it forcefully when it’s erect (ouch), in accordance with the Cleveland Clinic. This could occur by chance, say, in case your penis slips out throughout intercourse and thrusts towards your associate’s physique as a substitute of going again in. Whereas painful urination is not a typical symptom, it’s attainable, says Dr. Chubak, together with bruising, swelling, and excessive ache.

deal with it:

To scale back your danger of future issues (assume: getting an erection and peeing with out ache), your physician could suggest surgical procedure to restore a penile fracture.

Stopping burning pee after intercourse

You’ll be able to’t at all times keep away from burning pee after intercourse, however you’ll be able to attempt to cut back your danger. Here is what to do earlier than, throughout, and after intercourse:

Earlier than intercourse:

• Maintain your genital pores and skin wholesome: “Wash with water, avoiding pointless chemical publicity with irritant soaps,” Dr. Chubak says.
• Deal with underlying situations: When you deal with the basis trigger, your stinging pee ought to go away. Till then, it’s most likely safer to abstain from intercourse. Not solely could intercourse be uncomfortable for you, however you might also cross on an lively an infection to your associate.
• Chat along with your associate. Find out about your associate’s STI standing (and disclose yours) earlier than you do the deed. This fashion, you’ll be able to take correct precautions to decrease your probabilities of catching (or transmitting) an an infection.

Throughout intercourse:

• Use lubricant as wanted. This helps to “preserve issues slippery” and “could be useful to forestall abrasion of the pores and skin from friction,” Dr. Chubak says.
• Use safety. “In case you are unsure of your associate’s STI standing, use condoms to guard towards an infection,” Dr. Chubak says.
• Keep away from irritating substances. When you have irritation after intercourse, keep away from condoms with spermicides and warming, tingling, or scented lubricants, in accordance with the Cleveland Clinic. As a substitute, attempt latex condoms (with out spermicide) and water-based, fragrance-free lubricants for delicate pores and skin.
• Observe secure urethral sounding practices. “It is very important use a clear object that’s designed for the aim and to make use of loads of water-based lubricant so as to keep away from harm,” Dr. Chubak says.

After intercourse:

• Pee ASAP. “Urine is a automobile for elimination of chemical compounds which are unhealthy to the physique,” Dr. Chubak says. “Urinating to empty the bladder after sounding [and other forms of sex] is vital to scale back the chance of an infection.”
• Be conscious of what your pelvic ground muscle tissues are doing. Bear in mind, a decent pelvic ground could make peeing painful. So, as you pee, consciously contemplate these muscle tissues: “Are they stretching downward to let the urine out, or are they tightening and interfering with the discharge of urine?” Dr. Chubak says. “If the muscle tissues aren’t cooperating, downtraining [aka, relaxing] workout routines are useful practices,” she says. These could embody stretches like comfortable child pose or deep stomach respiration.

When to see a health care provider

Whereas burning pee after intercourse isn’t nice, it’s not at all times a trigger for concern. (It may very well be minor pores and skin irritation that goes away by itself.) Alternatively, when you’ve got stinging pee together with the next signs, Dr. Chubak says it’s most likely finest to see your physician:

• Ache that lasts for a number of days
• Ache that’s unrelieved by over-the-counter remedy (corresponding to NSAIDs or phenazopyridine)
• Ache that’s related to fever

These could be indicators that one thing extra critical is up—like an an infection that requires therapy.

FAQ

Is it regular for pee to burn after intercourse?

“No, however it isn’t unusual,” Dr. Chubak says. Once more, “varied issues could cause transient burning with urination after intercourse,” together with irritation, infections, irritation, and allergic reactions, simply to call a number of, she says. In case your pee sting doesn’t subside inside a day or two, inform your physician. They will look at you to see what’s occurring.

Does burning after peeing imply STD?

Generally. Once more, painful pee is usually a symptom of some STIs, together with chlamydia and gonorrhea. But it surely may also be an indication of different infections (like UTIs, yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, and so forth.) in addition to sure underlying medical situations (like interstitial cystitis, menopause, or prostatitis). To rule out STIs, see your physician who can take a look at you for any infections.

What does a UTI really feel like after intercourse?

UTIs do not at all times trigger signs. In the event that they do, you may normally really feel burning once you pee, pelvic and again ache, and a robust urge to urinate however solely passing small quantities at a time, per the Mayo Clinic.

keep away from a UTI after intercourse?

It isn’t at all times attainable to keep away from UTIs after intercourse, however these UTI prevention suggestions from the Mayo Clinic could assist:

• Drink loads of water. This helps dilute urine and encourages you to pee extra usually, permitting micro organism to be flushed from the urinary tract earlier than an an infection can start.
• Strive cranberry juice. Some research present cranberry juice could assist prevents UTIs, although extra proof continues to be wanted to substantiate this.
• Wipe from entrance to again. This helps forestall the unfold of micro organism from the anus to the vagina and urethra.
• Empty your bladder quickly after having intercourse. Once more, this follow, together with consuming water, may help flush out micro organism.
• Keep away from irritating female merchandise (like deodorant sprays, douches, and powders). Utilizing them in your genitals can irritate the urethra.
• Change your contraception methodology. Diaphragms, un-lubricated condoms, or condoms with spermicide can contribute to bacterial progress.