What are the Reasons for Vaginal Swelling

Vaginal swelling is a broad symptom that can be caused by any number of conditions, some of which are serious medical disorders. You should visit an OBGY at the earliest to get a professional diagnosis. The OBGY will look for additional symptoms, including the presence or absence of pain, any bleeding or discharge, and the presence of sores or warts. Based on these symptoms, you will be able to know if you are suffering from a comparatively minor infection or a more complicated condition. Yeast infections (candidiasis) and bacterial infections (bacterial vaginosis) can cause some swelling, accompanied by some itching, discomfort, and discharge. These are extremely common, and most women would have experienced them at some time in life. Luckily, the infections can be easily treated to relieve the swelling. However, if your vaginal swelling is accompanied by bleeding or extreme discomfort, it could be indicative of certain sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as gonorrhea.

Symptoms Vaginal Swelling

In cases where the vaginal swelling lasts only for a small duration with minor pain, the cause could be physical trauma related to sexual intercourse. In many cases, the swelling can be caused by skin irritation. This can be caused by deodorized soaps and solutions, or scented tampons and douches. If you think this may be the case, try changing your soap to a milder brand. Avoid scented feminine products and keep yourself clean and dry. Wear loose, comfortable clothes and undergarments. You could get some relief from the basic symptoms by keeping your feet and lower body elevated as much as possible. Try lying down next to your bed, with your feet resting on the bed. You can also enjoy a warm bath with natural oils or Epsom salts. This not only eases the discomfort, but also helps you to relax and de-stress. Many women also report some level of vaginal swelling during pregnancy. There can be a number of reasons, including a hernia (due to the pressure of the womb) and venal thrombosis (when a vein is pinched behind the muscle). Again, an OBGY will be able to provide you with more details and recommendations.

Among the more serious causes of any swelling in the vagina are streptococcus, staphylococcus, and E coli infections. These can infect you in a large number of ways, including direct contact, reduced immunity, infected wounds or cuts, and poor hygiene. If left untreated, some of these can lead to further complications, including cancer.