When vaginal pain occurs, it is mostly due to an infection. However, pain in the intimate region can also be caused by irritation, vaginal dryness and hormonal changes. Other symptoms that may follow vaginal pain include itching, burning, soreness, stinging and throbbing.
Vaginal pain
Most Common Causes of Vaginal Pain
Some of the most common causes of vaginal pain include:
- Yeast infection
- Irritation
- Using antibiotics or steroid medication
- Pregnancy
- Some STDs
- Vaginal dryness
- Vaginal atrophy
Possible Causes of Vaginal Pain Explained
- Yeast infection Even though yeast infection itself may not cause the pain, it does cause itching. Scratching the intimate area can damage the skin and cause swelling, eventually resulting in pain and sensitivity down there. In case you are prone to yeast infections or you are on an antibiotic treatment, use a prebiotic product that can stimulate the good bacteria and reduce the risk of infection.
- Irritation
Using products that contain harsh detergents, chemicals, fragrances or dyes can irritate the skin and cause inflammation, resulting in swelling, pain and sensitivity of the intimate area. Avoid any products that may contain such ingredients, including soap, bubble baths, vaginal sprays, body lotions and creams. - Using antibiotics or steroid medication
These groups of medication can increase the chance of getting a yeast infection. - Pregnancy
While pregnant, women are more likely to develop yeast infection and vaginal pain as the result of inflammation. - Some STDs
- Vaginal dryness When the vagina is not getting enough natural lubrication, penetration during intercourse can cause friction and tissue damage, resulting in inflammation and pain. This can lead to a loss of libido or not enjoying intercourse. If you are experiencing vaginal dryness, try using a vaginal moisturizer or a lubricant to relieve the symptoms. A moisturizer is applied daily and is long lasting, while a lubricant is applied prior to intercourse and is effective only for a short period of time.
- Vaginal atrophy This condition is caused due to the thinning out of the vaginal tissue and a loss in elasticity because of the drop in estrogen levels that normally happens in menopause. Vaginal walls that are thin and dry can easily get damaged and inflamed by penetration, resulting in burning and pain.