We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Vaginal itching and irritation is common. However, persistent itching, burning, and irritation may be a sign of infection or another underlying condition. These symptoms may begin suddenly or grow in intensity over time. The burning and irritation may be constant, or it may worsen during an activity like urination or sexual intercourse.

The external female genitals are called the vulva. Symptoms of vulvar conditions commonly include a burning sensation, stinging or itching. In some cases, the vulva appears red and swollen. Without treatment, or with recurrent symptoms, vulvar conditions can lead to depression, anxiety, sexual problems and body image concerns. Recovery from vulvar conditions may take weeks, months or longer. Generally, treatment for vulvar conditions aims to ease the symptoms while healing takes place. It may speed recovery to use a number of treatments at the same time, rather than one after another.

The perineum refers to the area between the anus and genitals, extending from either the vaginal opening to the anus or the scrotum to the anus. Injuries, urinary tract issues, infections, and other conditions can cause perineum pain. A urinary tract infection UTI is an infection in any part of your urinary system, such as your urethra, bladder, ureters, or kidneys. Most UTIs affect the lower urinary tract, which includes your bladder and urethra.

What Is It? Vulvodynia is chronic pain or discomfort of the vulva the area surrounding the outside of the vagina that lasts for three months or longer without any evidence of other skin or gynecological causes. Vulvodynia "vul-vo-din-ee-a" is chronic pain or discomfort of the vulva the area surrounding the outside of the vagina that lasts for three months or longer without any evidence of other skin or gynecological causes.