Feeling inflammation in the labia majora of the vulva is something more frequent than it may seem at first, there are many women who sometimes feel this discomfort. Also, sometimes this swelling in the labia is accompanied by pain, itching, burning, changes in vaginal discharge, and other symptoms. Therefore, it is important to recognize these warning signs and know what can be done in addition to knowing the possible causes of this discomfort. In addition, of course, you have to go to the doctor if there is pain, if the problem worsens in a few hours or if it persists for several days in a row. For this reason, in this oneHOWTO article we are going to tell you the possible reasons that give an answer to the question about why do I have swollen labia majora.
Vulvovaginitis due to infection
Vulvovaginitis is one of the first causes of swollen labia. It is about inflammation and irritation of both the walls of the vagina and the vulva, both the labia majora and the lower lips. This problem is usually due to an infection bacterial, fungal or parasitic or by a allergic reaction, especially substances such as soaps and sanitary wipes.
Other symptoms that can alert you to this problem in addition to having swollen labia majora are abundant, grayish or whitish vaginal discharge and also a bad smell. Although depending on the exact cause these signs may vary, for example in case the infection is caused by a parasite known as trichonomas vaginalis, then the discharge may be yellowish or even greenish.
If you have the swollen and itchy labia majoraIn addition to any alteration in vaginal discharge or burning, do not hesitate to go to the gynecologist as soon as possible since it will be necessary to start an appropriate treatment as soon as possible.
Inflammation of the labia majora after intercourse
One of the most common times when labia swelling occurs is after intercourse. So if you’ve ever thought “my inner lips swell after having sex“or “My vaginal lips get swollen when I have sex“Then pay attention to the main reasons why this annoying inflammation happens to you when you have sexual encounters:
Very intense or rough relationships
Although it is normal that due to the excitement itself there is a slight inflammation in the genital area, if the lips are swollen or even if they hurt, it may be because that encounter has been somewhat intense. When in sexual encounters the movements are very abrupt and intense, there is a lot of friction in the genital area that not only reddens the skin, but also causes a strong inflammation of the genital area. In addition, either from blows or rubbing, this swelling usually disappears on its own after a few minutes or a few hours after the encounter, therefore if you see that it lasts several hours or more than a day, go to your gynecologist.
Latex allergy
Some women have an allergy to latex, one of the main components of condoms, both male and female. Therefore, if you have this inflammation and also have other symptoms such as a lot of burning, itching, vaginal dryness, a lot of irritation and and you have used latex condoms, it is quite likely that you have an allergy to this element. In addition, in severe cases and in which normally other parts of the body have had contact with latex, there are also symptoms of irritation to the skin in that area, sneezing, trouble breathing and mucus.
We recommend that you read this other oneHOWTO article on How to know if I am allergic to latex and that if you have the slightest suspicion, consult your doctor or gynecologist.
Swollen labia majora in pregnancy
Yes you are pregnant and you have noticed inflammation in the labia majora as well as inside or minors, it is more normal than it may seem at first. When there is gestation, the growth of the uterus itself puts pressure on the blood vessels in the pelvis causing them to inflammation in the genital area both internal and external, as the return of blood is difficult.
In addition, due to changes in hormonal levels during pregnancy, many bacterial and fungal vaginitis more easily and, in such a case, you should know the symptoms of a vaginal infection such as the different appearance of the discharge, constant itching or pain. Likewise, it will be vital that the gynecologist makes a review to prescribe the most appropriate treatment for each type of infection, adapted to the fact that there is a pregnancy. If left untreated, there can be problems during pregnancy as well as premature delivery.
Another thing that can cause this discomfort in the genital lips during pregnancy are the Gartner duct cysts, located on both sides of the vagina. This duct is present while the fetus is developing and it is normal for it to disappear after delivery. When residual parts of this duct remain, liquid can accumulate in them and become encyst. Again it will be the gynecology specialist who must diagnose the problem and treat it.
Swelling in the vaginal lips from cervicitis
Cervicitis or inflammation of the cervix It can cause a problem such as swelling of the labia majora and minora. This condition can be caused by STDs, bacterial or fungal infections, or by initiating sexual intercourse at a young age.
This problem may be asymptomatic, that is, not to present signs especially at the beginning, but in the cases in which there are, these are usually the symptoms following:
- Pressure in the pelvic area
- Grayish or yellowish vaginal discharge
- Burning in the pelvis
- Pain when having sex
- Vaginal bleeding outside of the usual period
- Injuries to the vulva
- Inflammation of the vaginal lips
Treatment will depend entirely on the cause, so it may be treated with antibiotics or surgery may be necessary. But, so that the condition does not get worse and complications do not occur, the important thing is to go to the annual check-ups as well as go to the doctor if we detect any of these commented signs.
Inflammation of the Bartholin’s gland
Bartholin’s glands They are located on the sides of the vaginal opening and secrete a liquid to lubricate the entrance to the vagina and prevent dryness. But, sometimes, the exit orifice of these glands can become obstructed and when the liquid does not come out through the clogging, the gland becomes inflamed and increases its size until a cyst occurs. So it is common to notice the swollen labia majora and a lump or on both sides if the problem has occurred in both glands. But, also among the main symptoms of bartolinitis we find the following:
- Constant pain and especially when sitting and touching
- Inflammation of the vulva and vaginal lips
- Irritation of the vaginal lip
- Lump or lump on the sides of the vaginal opening
But, the inflammation of these glands can also be due to factors other than cysts such as infections and STDs. For this reason, the treatment will depend entirely on the cause and only the gynecologist specialist will be able to determine which is this and which is the indicated treatment.
This article is merely informative, at oneHOWTO we do not have the power to prescribe any medical treatment or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
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