Yeast infection pain during intercourse

Vaginal thrush may cause itching, soreness, burning, redness or a change in discharge. Contact and stretching during intercourse can aggravate already tender tissue, so pain may be felt at the entrance or deeper inside. Pain alone cannot confirm thrush because irritation, dryness, bacterial vaginosis and sexually transmitted infections can feel similar. A vaginal discharge or vaginal itching page may help you compare symptoms, while vulval pain can describe external soreness in more detail.

Pause penetrative sex until soreness has settled, and do not push through pain. Keep the area dry, wash gently with water or an unscented product, and avoid douches, perfumed washes and tight clothing. If a clinician confirms thrush, use the recommended antifungal treatment exactly as directed; options may be local or oral, depending on your situation. Ask about treatment if you are pregnant, have diabetes, or symptoms keep returning. A partner does not usually need treatment unless they have symptoms.

Arrange medical advice if this is your first suspected episode, the pain is strong, symptoms do not improve after treatment, or intercourse remains painful after other symptoms settle. Seek prompt care for fever, pelvic or lower abdominal pain, sores or blisters, unusual bleeding, a strong-smelling discharge, or pain with urination. These features can point to another condition that needs examination and testing.

Could another infection or dryness explain the pain? Do I need an examination or swab? Which treatment is suitable for me, and when is it safe to resume intercourse?