In most cases, this symptom is found in the course of an "irritation, an inflammatory state or an" infection of the vagina (muscular-membranous duct that extends from the vulva to the cervix). Furthermore, considering the anatomy of the female genitals, the burning could also derive from a pathological process affecting the vulva or the urinary tract.
The severity of vaginal burning varies according to the underlying cause and the individual factors that contribute to determining its appearance (eg. Irritative reactions, hormonal changes and other situations that contribute to modifying the vaginal ecosystem). In any case, the burning reveals itself. a particularly annoying symptom, as it involves a very sensitive area.
The burning sensation may be constant or present only during certain activities, such as during sexual intercourse or after urination (for example, when urine comes into contact with inflamed or injured areas of the genital region).
Vaginal burning can occur suddenly or gradually over the course of weeks or months. Also, depending on the etiology, this disorder may be associated with itching, erythema and tenderness, sometimes with vaginal discharge.
The assessment of burning - essential for establishing the correct therapy directed at the triggering cause - must be performed by the gynecologist and usually includes anamnesis, physical examination and analysis of vaginal secretions.
Early diagnosis and treatment of the pathological condition underlying vaginal burning reduces the risk of possible complications.
Often, this condition is favored by an increase in local pH (due, for example, to menstrual blood or post-coitus semen) and by the alteration of the vaginal microbial flora (reduction of lactobacilli secondary to poor personal hygiene or use medications, such as antibiotics or corticosteroids).
These conditions predispose to the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms and make the vaginal mucosa more vulnerable to infectious attacks. The agents responsible for vaginitis can be fungi (such as Candida albicans), bacteria (Gardnerella vaginalis, streptococci, staphylococci etc.), protozoa (eg. Trichomonas vaginalis) and, more rarely, viruses (eg Herpes simplex).
Vaginitis can also result from hypersensitivity reactions and irritation of the vaginal mucosa. Factors that can induce this disorder include excessive use of intimate cleansers, vaginal douches, hygiene sprays or perfumes, fabric softeners and laundry detergents. Occasionally, irritation can result from the use of latex lubricants or condoms.
Vaginitis can also be caused by physical causes, such as abrasions due to "inadequate lubrication during sexual intercourse or rubbing from clothing that is too tight, especially if made of a synthetic material. Even prolonged contact with a foreign body (eg. Tampons) , toilet paper residues or grains of sand) can cause an "inflammation in the vagina.
