Some men notice itching after intercourse, which may require medical attention if it is severe or persistent. So, let's review the common causes that may lead to irritation and itching after sexual activity. Many people, whether men or women, suffer from itching after sex. This problem is due to several reasons, but most of them can be controlled. Continue reading Dalili Medical to learn more details about whether you may experience itching after intercourse and what you can do to treat it based on the cause.
Itching in sensitive areas in men is not always a cause for concern, but itching in the penis may indicate a condition that requires treatment. Itching in the penis can be the result of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or irritation. Itching is common, especially on the head of the penis (glans), but it can also occur in the penis or around the foreskin, and may be accompanied by irritation, redness, and swelling.
**Causes of itching after sex in couples**
**Spermicidal allergy**Substances in spermicides (spermicides) can cause allergic reactions that lead to itching around the genitals after sex. One of these substances is the chemical nonoxynol-9, which can irritate the genitals.
**Male candidiasis**Your genital itching after sex could be due to male candidiasis, which is a yeast infection. This disease affects the head of the penis and foreskin, causing itching, pain, and swelling.
**Sexually transmitted diseases**Although sexually transmitted diseases usually do not cause any symptoms, they can sometimes cause itching in the vagina or penis. Depending on the type of infection, this itching can take several days to appear. Some of the most common sexually transmitted diseases that can cause itching include chlamydia, herpes, and gonorrhea.
**Immediate allergic reactions:** This type of reaction occurs in people who have previously been exposed to allergens (such as latex). When they come into contact with latex again, their immune system responds to this substance, causing the following symptoms:
- Runny nose.
- Sneezing.
- Coughing.
- Wheezing.
- Itchy eyes and throat.
** Candida albicans in men** Although less common in men, Candida infection can affect them, leading to thrush, which causes itching of the genitals.
This condition is also known as male candidiasis, as it affects the head of the penis and foreskin, causing itching, pain, and swelling, and sometimes a thick, white, lumpy discharge.
Thrush can occur in men who have a sexual partner with vaginal candidiasis, as well as in those with diabetes.
**Reaction to spermicides*Reaction to spermicides is more common in men, although it can also occur in women.
Spermicides contain a certain substance that causes an allergic reaction, resulting in an itchy feeling around the genital area. Among these chemicals, nonoxynol 9 is responsible for irritation of the genitals. This irritation increases the risk of infection, including HIV and sexually transmitted diseases.
Symptoms in men:
- Thick discharge from the penis, which may be yellow, green or white.
- Pain during urination.
- In some cases, swelling and pain in the testicles may occur.
- Sores or warts around the genitals or mouth.
- Flu-like symptoms.
- Pain in the rectal area.
Treatment of itching that may occur after sex depends on the underlying cause. Here are some clarifications:
**Vaginal dryness:** If vaginal dryness is the cause, you can use a vaginal moisturizer, making sure to choose a product specifically designed for this purpose and avoid using any other products inside the vagina. It is also helpful to focus on foreplay with your partner, as it enhances arousal during intercourse, which may help reduce vaginal dryness.
**Latex allergy:** If you suspect that you have a latex allergy, do not ignore it, as the allergy can worsen over time. You should avoid contact with any products that contain latex, including condoms. You can replace them with condoms made of synthetic rubber or natural leather. For the wife, it is preferable to choose a water-based lubricant instead of lubricants that contain latex. In cases of severe allergy, your doctor may recommend using an epinephrine injection pen (EpiPen).
**Sperm allergy:** Using a condom can help prevent sperm allergy. You can also receive treatment for this allergy, which often involves a doctor or allergist inserting a diluted amount of semen into the vagina, then gradually increasing the amount to allow the body to develop tolerance. In the event of a severe allergic reaction, the doctor may prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector, as is the case with a latex allergy.
**Vaginal infections:** If the itching after sex is caused by a vaginal infection, the doctor may prescribe an antifungal medication or antibiotic to treat the infection.
**Spermicide allergy:** If spermicide is the cause of the itching, the solution is to switch to another method of birth control.
**Sexually transmitted diseases:** If either spouse suspects that they have an STD, they should see a doctor to receive appropriate treatment.
**1. Ways to treat itching in the sensitive area for men at home**
- **Oatmeal**: Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties, whichHelps relieve skin irritation and associated symptoms, such as itching and dryness.
- **Dead Sea Salts**: Using sea salts is effective in treating itching in the sensitive area, especially those resulting from psoriasis.
- **Baking Soda**: If the itching is caused by a yeast infection or thrush, it is recommended to add a cup of baking soda to a warm bath, as this helps relieve itching.
- **Using Aloe Vera**: Aloe Vera is used in many medical treatments due to its beneficial substances, and it is also effective in treating itching thanks to its high content of antioxidants and fungicides, which can completely prevent itching when applied to the affected area.
**Basil**: Basil is used in many natural recipes to treat itching, thanks to its eugenol and other soothing oils such as eucalyptus oil. The recipe is prepared by boiling its dry leaves, then applying the extract to the affected area until the itching disappears completely.
**Chamomile:** Chamomile is considered an effective recipe for moisturizing the skin, as many major companies use it in the production of moisturizing products. It is also used to treat itching by boiling it, then putting a little of it on a piece of cotton and applying it to the sensitive area.
**Mint:** Thanks to its antioxidant content, mint helps fight bacteria and fungi that cause itching. It can be prepared by boiling it, then using a cotton ball to gently apply it to the sensitive area until the redness and itching subside.
**Cold water or ice packs:** Cold water is an effective treatment for relieving itching, as compresses can be placed on the desired area for a few minutes, which helps relieve the feeling of itching and pain.
**Garlic:** Garlic is a powerful antioxidant, and works to eliminate bacteria and fungi, making it an excellent disinfectant for various skin diseases. It can be used by...
**Yogurt as a moisturizer for sensitive areas** Yogurt can be used as an effective moisturizer for sensitive areas that suffer from itching. You can apply it directly to the affected area or take it daily to feel better and get rid of itching permanently.
**Coconut Oil** Coconut oil is characterized by its ability to eliminate Candida albicans fungus. You can use your finger to gently insert coconut oil into the vagina, then cover it with a pad. After an hour or two, remove the pad. You can repeat this process if you feel an improvement in vaginal itching without any side effects.
*: Lion's Mane** Lion's Mane is an important herb used in many cosmetics and skin care products, and is also used to treat some diseases such as skin allergies. To prepare it, follow these steps:
1. Bring a small amount of Lion's Mane and soak it in hot water.
2. Add some cocoa butter to it.
Use the mixture with a cotton ball and pass it over the affected area for a short period, then wash it with lukewarm water. It is preferable to use this method daily to get quick results.
*Potato slices**
Potato slices are an effective treatment to get rid of dark circles under the eyes and reduce the fatigue that appears on them. They are also used in some natural recipes to treat some conditions, such as anaphylaxis, in the following way:
1. Cut the potatoes into circular slices.
2. Slowly pass the slices over the sensitive area until you feel that the redness has gone and the itching has stopped.
**Yogurt with honey**The mixture of yogurt and honey is considered one of the most effective moisturizers in reducing sensitivity in the body, especially in sensitive areas. It is used as follows:
1. Add a small amount of white honey to the yogurt.
2. Apply the mixture to the sensitive area, and repeat this process daily for best results.
**Home remedies**
Some steps can be taken at home to relieve itching:
- Avoid having sex until symptoms improve.
- Keep the vaginal area clean and dry it well after washing.
- Use products designed for sensitive skin to wash the vaginal area.
- Enjoy an oatmeal bath.
- Use over-the-counter antifungal creams for mild yeast infections.
- Use latex-free condoms.
**Drug treatments**
Most STDs and other infections require drug treatment. Treatments may include:
- Antibiotics, whether oral, topical, or injectable
- Corticosteroids, whether oral or topical
- Antifungal medications
- Antiviral medications
- Surgical removal of warts
After learning about the causes of itching that may occur after intercourse, here are some guidelines that can help reduce this feeling:
1. It is preferable to refrain from intercourse during the treatment period until the symptoms disappear.
2. If it is necessary to use a condom, it is recommended to choose a latex-free type.
3. Vaginal douche should be discontinued throughout the treatment period, as it may exacerbate the problem and contribute to the spread of the rash if present.
4. It is preferable to wash the genital area with warm water only during the infection period, with the necessity of boiling and washing underwear separately.
5. It is recommended to dry the area using medical tissues that are free of scents and dispose of them after use, in addition to disinfecting the toilet after each use.
6. It is important to remove hair regularly using radical hair removal methods.
7. It is preferable not to wear underwear while sleeping at night, which allows the area to breathe and helps reduce the feeling of itching and get rid of unwanted symptoms, as dryness of this area is considered one of the essential factors in restoring its health.