Part of vaginal health management is learning to distinguish between typical period cramps and other types of pain. But the thing is, vaginal pain has many possible causes. It might be linked to a bacterial infection, a chronic condition, hormonal shifts, or something else entirely.
Here's a rundown of the most common causes of vaginal pain, and what you can do to manage and prevent them.
Common Causes of Vaginal Pain
There are many reasons why your vagina might hurt, and they don't all mean the same thing. Some are temporary and easily treated, while others are chronic conditions that need long-term management.
Here's a rundown of typical causes of vaginal pain:
Bacterial vaginosis (BV)
BV is a very common cause of vaginal pain, occurring when your vaginal microbiome is imbalanced. BV happens when less beneficial strains outnumber protective bacteria.
The key symptom is a thin, grayish discharge with a strong odor, which is especially noticeable just after sex. Some people might also experience a mild burning sensation or itching.
Doctors will typically prescribe antibiotics, either taken orally or as suppositories.
You can prevent BV by cleaning your vagina properly (scent-free products, no douching, etc.) and being mindful of new sexual partners.
Vulvodynia or vaginismus
Vulvodynia refers to chronic vulvar pain without an obvious cause. Women who live with it often describe a raw, stinging, or burning pain, which can be triggered by touch, whether during sex or when inserting a tampon.
Vaginismus, on the other hand, is a type of muscle spasm. It happens when the pelvic floor muscles involuntarily tighten, leading to impossible or very painful intercourse.
Treatment for both conditions can involve physical therapy, topical medications, and psychological support.
Yeast infection
Yeast is a common cause of vaginal infection, and the problem appears when there is an overgrowth of the naturally occurring fungus Candida albicans.
Symptoms include intense itching, burning, redness, and swelling accompanied by a thick, white vaginal discharge. Painful sex and a burning sensation when peeing are common.
Topical antifungal medication usually gets rid of a yeast infection within a few days.
But prevention is worth thinking about too, because a few easy changes can stop yeast infections from becoming a recurring problem:
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Avoid wearing non-breathable fabrics, like polyester. Opt for cotton underwear instead.
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Change out of damp clothes as quickly as possible.
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Avoid overusing antibiotics
Genital herpes and other STIs
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are another cause of vaginal pain, though symptoms vary depending on the infection.
Genital herpes causes painful sores around the vaginal opening and surrounding area, but unfortunately, there is no known cure.
Other STIs, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, may cause pelvic pain, strange discharge, or vaginal itching, but they can also be asymptomatic.
Treatment depends on the infection. Bacterial STIs are treated with antibiotics, while herpes is managed with antiviral medications to reduce outbreaks.
Prevention comes down to practicing safe sexual intercourse and regular health screening.
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
PID is a serious condition that spreads to the female reproductive organs and is often a complication of untreated STIs.
Symptoms of PID? Deep, chronic pelvic pain, possible fever, and unusual discharge.
PID requires quick action and antibiotics because delaying treatment can lead to additional health issues. Prevention leads back to the same fundamentals: practicing safe sex and getting screened regularly.
Hormonal changes
Hormones can wreak havoc on your vaginal health. When estrogen levels drop, the vaginal tissues become thinner and more prone to irritation.
Although it's a common side effect of menopause, it can also occur post-partum and while breastfeeding. The result is vaginal dryness and increased nerve pain or sensitivity.
Treatments can include vaginal moisturizers, lubricants, or hormone therapy.
Urinary tract infection (UTI)
UTIs, although present in the urinary system, often cause vaginal discomfort.
Typical symptoms include a burning or stabbing pain when urinating and pelvic discomfort. If left untreated, they can lead to serious conditions, like kidney infection or sepsis.
Most UTIs are treated with antibiotics. You can prevent them by drinking lots of water and urinating after sex. Avoiding holding a full bladder for long periods is also advised.
Weak pelvic floor muscles
Weak pelvic muscles can't properly support the bladder, uterus, or bowels, leading to pain or discomfort in this area.
Pelvic floor dysfunction is a step up from this, when you cannot relax or coordinate the muscles enough to poop or pee.
Working with a physical therapist to strengthen the muscles can help a lot. Or, you can do self-guided exercises, like Kegels.
Endometriosis
This is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus and affects the pelvic region.
The pain is deep and more severe than surface-level vaginal pain. Intense cramps are common, as well as pelvic pain.
Treatment plans range from pain management to hormone therapy. In the most severe cases, surgery may be necessary. Catching it early gives you the best shot at keeping the condition under control.
Vaginal dryness
Vaginal dryness can occur on its own or as part of hormonal changes, including during perimenopause and menopause.
Friction during sex can also lead to irritation and microtears in the vaginal walls. Chronic stress, overwashing, douching, and breastfeeding are also common causes of being dry.
Treatment is simple: Use water-based lubricants for immediate relief, vaginal moisturizers for longer-term support, and keep stress levels in check.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
If you're experiencing pain in the vaginal area, it's important to see your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Even if it just turns out to be a mild vaginal infection, prompt treatment will stop symptoms from worsening.
More importantly, a physical exam will catch anything more serious during the early stages and ensure you get medical treatment before it escalates.
How to Prevent Vaginal and Pelvic Pain
There are several things you can do to help prevent vaginal pain from occurring:
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Clean your vagina with unscented and pH-balanced products
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Avoid douching
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Wear breathable cotton underwear
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Practice safe sex
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Perform regular pelvic floor exercises, like Kegels
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Take supplements to support the vaginal environment and reduce bacterial overgrowth, such as our vaginal health kit or the vaginal odor prevention bundle
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Don't ignore symptoms, even if they are mild
The Bottom Line on Vaginal Pain
Vaginal pain is not something you should ignore, so don't push through it or hope it fades on its own. Seek medical attention if the pain persists or gets worse.
And to prevent pain in the first place, be sure to practice good hygiene, safe sex, and be mindful of changes in your body.
FAQs
How do I get my private area to stop hurting?
To prevent your private area from hurting, seek medical advice and use the right treatment for the cause. For instance, lubricants for dryness or medication for infections.
What does being sore down there feel like?
Soreness in your pelvic region can range from burning, sharp pain, and itching to deep aches and tenderness. It can be constant or triggered by touch, urination, or sex.
Can interstitial cystitis cause my vagina to hurt?
While interstitial cystitis is a chronic bladder condition, it can cause pain in the vagina and pelvic area. Symptoms include persistent aches, a frequent urge to pee, and pain or discomfort during sex or urination.
Dietary adjustments usually ease symptoms, such as avoiding caffeine and acidic foods and drinking plenty of water.
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