Why am I foaming after sex?

Dear Freaked Out!,

There might not be any need to foam at the mouth just yet. It's possible that the foam you’re seeing is your partner’s semen from the use of the dildo. That said, if either you or your partner notice foamy discharge at other times, it could be that one or both of you are experiencing an infection. This could include a urinary tract infection (UTI), trichomoniasis, or bacterial vaginosis (BV). Consider meeting with a health care provider to discuss your symptoms so they can help get you tested and treated (if necessary) as soon as possible.  

What’s most likely going on? 

You mention that your partner used a dildo on you. It’s likely possible that the motion of the dildo “whipped” the semen into foam. Have you ever whipped egg whites? If so, you might be familiar with the way a clear, thin liquid can turn into a frothy mix through the action of mixing and folding in air. It’s likely that that’s what’s happening here, too. In that case, no need to worry about the foam. But if it seems like the discharge is coming from either of you, it’s possible it could be something else.

Is the foam your partner’s discharge? 

If your partner's discharge is a foamy substance, it’s possible he might either have a UTI or trichomoniasis. UTIs are bacterial infections of the urinary tract, that can cause symptoms like painful urination, frequent urge to urinate, white or frothy discharge, and bloody urine. UTIs are commonly treated with antibiotics. 

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a parasite. Some people with penises experience frothy penile discharge, painful urination, and an increased urge to urinate, though most don’t exhibit symptoms. That said, even if they don’t experience symptoms, they can still infect others. Trichomoniasis is also treated with antibiotics and prevented with safer sex practices. If you’re interested in learning more about STIs, prevention methods, and testing tips, feel free to check out the STI Basics fact sheet. 

Is the foam your own discharge? 

If your own discharge is foamy, it’s possible you might either have trichomoniasis or BV. In people with vaginas, trichomoniasis symptoms differ slightly. You might experience vaginal discharge that’s green or yellow, frothy, and fishy smelling. Your genital area may also feel irritated and painful, or you may experience frequent urination. Despite the different symptoms, trichomoniasis is still treated the same—with antibiotics.  

BV is a bacterial imbalance that often leads to vaginal discharge that is fishy, white, gray, green, or foamy, and some burning during urination. Things like douching, using vaginal deodorants, or having a mismatched genital chemistry with your partner can all cause changes in vaginal pH that could lead to BV. The good news is BV can be treated with antibiotics and it’s best to avoid sex until BV has cleared.  

While it’s likely that the foam was a by-product of the motion of the dildo and not a sign that you or your partner has an infection, it’s never a bad idea to speak with a health care provider. If you or your partner are concerned about potential infections, this interaction can provide an opportunity to get checked for STIs and discuss prevention and treatment options if necessary.  

Best of luck getting to the bottom of this foam scenario,