Itching after receiving oral sex

Dear Readers, ’s partner, who has a slight beard, had oral sex with her recently. Since then, her privates has been itching. A says his beard is clean, but he does have some dental problems, as he needs some fillings. Could this affect her?

AThe answer is ‘yes’! Vulvar inflammation can sometimes be caused by frequent oral-genital contact. It is thought that the saliva itself or its bacterial or fungal content can be the cause. An antifungal or antibiotic cream might be needed to treat the problem. There are several preparations, available with prescription, which combine both treatments with a steroid to lessen inflammation and itching, which A will find most useful. She should see her doctor.

It is also fairly common for the vulva (feminine folds external to the vagina) to become sore and inflamed after prolonged sexual foreplay or sex itself. This situation can be resolved by using an ice pack and soothing creams, and avoiding sex for a few days.

Candida (thrush) infection of the vulva often causes soreness, itching and some swelling in that area. It may be associated with a white discharge, which resembles cottage cheese. This is easily treated with antifungal oral medication, topical creams and/or vaginal inserts.

Genital herpes can also be caught from oral sex if your partner had a cold sore on the face. This can also cause quite a bit of genital tingling and burning. The sexually transmitted infections — HIV, chlamydia and gonorrhoea — can also be transmitted by oral sex, although these diseases are not usually associated with vulval itch or burn.

Allergy to latex condoms can also result in severe vulval itching, which may require treatment.