After antibiotics

The cause of a burning sensation in the vagina, which occurs after taking antibiotics, is usually a fungal infection of the vagina. The intended effect of antibiotic therapy is to fight an infection. This can be an infection of the upper respiratory tract, for example.

However, antibiotics are not directed specifically against bacteria in one region of the body or a specific species. As an undesirable side effect of antibiotic intake, the vaginal flora may be attacked. Natural colonization with lactic acid bacteria is very important for the health of the vagina. If too many of these bacteria are destroyed by taking antibiotics, the body’s own fungi or other skin pathogens can lead to vaginal infections. In a healthy vaginal environment, these germs would not cause an infection.

Diagnosis

For vaginal complaints, the gynecologist is the right contact person. He can perform special and general examinations to determine the cause of the burning. First of all, important accompanying symptoms, such as fever, discharge, vaginal bleeding or abdominal pain, are asked about in conversation with the patient concerned.

The intensity of the burning and possible triggers, such as sexual intercourse, are also very important for the diagnosis. The gynaecologist then examines the vagina as part of a gynaecological examination. Redness, discharge, coatings or an unpleasant odor are indications of a vaginal infection, for example.

To confirm the diagnosis, special examinations such as a smear test from the vagina or a sample collection can be performed. A measurement of the pH value indicates changes in the acidic vaginal environment and is indicative of various infections of the vagina. A sample is taken, for example, if malignant disease or endometriosis is suspected. A vaginal palpation and palpation of the lower abdomen are also part of the diagnostic procedure.With ultrasound, ascending infections of the ovaries can be clarified.

Treatment

The treatment of a burning in the vagina depends on the underlying cause. Very often a simple vaginal mycosis is the cause of the burning (see treatment of vaginal mycosis). The fungus is treated with an antimycotic that kills the fungus.

Both vaginal creams and suppositories, single or combined, are used for treatment. A common active ingredient is Clotrimazole. Especially stubborn vaginal fungi are also treated with tablets that are swallowed.

Preferred active ingredients in these cases are Fluconazole or Itraconazole. A bacterial infection of the vagina, however, requires treatment with antibiotics. This therapy should be carried out in any case, because a bacterial infection can rise and thus also affect the ovaries and the uterus.

The active ingredient metronidazole is preferred. However, apart from infections, there are also other diseases that can cause a burning sensation in the vagina. Women in the menopause often suffer from vaginal burning due to the natural lack of estrogen (here you can find more about symptoms in the menopause).

Special vaginal estrogen creams help to relieve the burning sensation. Soothing sitz baths and moist compresses, zinc ointments and possibly also cortisone ointments are suitable for symptomatic treatment of the burning sensation. Such measures are very useful, for example, in the case of an allergic cause.

Rarer diseases, such as lichen sclerosus, require special therapy. In case of the lichen sclerosus, ointments are used which contain cortisone or the active substance tacrolimus. Both active substances serve the inflammation inhibition.

Also a surgical therapy of the inflamed tissue is possible. For the care of the irritated vagina it is recommended to use pH-neutral washing and care lotions for the intimate area. To restore intimate health after an infection or inflammation, vaginal capsules containing lactic acid bacteria and vaginal vitamin C tablets are also frequently used.

In the event of a burning sensation in the vagina, a doctor should be consulted as soon as possible to obtain specific treatment. Home remedies unfortunately have only a very limited effect on vaginal burning. Moist, cooling compresses or sitz baths can help against the burning or existing itching.

However, essential oils or chamomile should be avoided, otherwise irritation or allergic reactions may occur. After an infection of the vagina, many women use yoghurt locally to restore the healthy vaginal environment. The yogurt is applied with a finger on the vulva and inside the vagina.

However, the effect has not been reliably proven. However, the cooling effect of yogurt is perceived as very pleasant. Furthermore, the vagina should be cleaned daily with clear water.

Aggressive shower gels or cleaning lotions, on the other hand, should be avoided. Keep away from household remedies such as lemon juice or vinegar. In the worst case they cause irritation.