Download ArticleDownload ArticleThis article was co-authored by Rebecca Levy-Gantt, MPT, DO. Dr. Rebecca Levy-Gantt is a board certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist running a private practice based in Napa, California. Dr. Levy-Gantt specializes in menopause, peri-menopause and hormonal management, including bio-Identical and compounded hormone treatments and alternative treatments. She is also a Nationally Certified Menopause Practitioner and is on the national listing of physicians who specialize in menopausal management. She received a Masters of Physical Therapy from Boston University and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) from the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine.
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Many people experience vaginal soreness during their period. This pain commonly results from menstrual cramps, which are caused by contractions in the uterus throughout the period.[1] Vaginal soreness may also be a sign that you need to keep better hygiene during this time of the month. Try one or more methods to relieve vaginal soreness during your period.
Steps
Shower regularly. Do not change your normal showering routine during your period.[2] If you feel vaginal soreness, you may even want to shower more than once a day, using warm or hot, but not boiling, water to clean your vagina. Taking warm baths may also help relieve pain and keep your vagina clean.- Do not use harsh soaps or rough loofahs while showering.
- Do not douche your vagina during this time.
Change your pad or tampon often. Check your pad or tampon every two hours, and change it at least every 4 hours.[3] Keeping your pubic area dry during your period may help relieve any topical soreness.Advertisement
Use soft, soothing wipes instead of toilet paper. Since toilet paper can be rough and irritating to skin, buy some simple vaginal wipes to use during your period. These will soothe your skin and provide a cooling relief.- Vaginal wipes can be found at any discount department or grocery store.
- Discontinue use if the wipes irritate your vagina further.
- Do not insert the wipes into your vagina.
Buy a pain reliever suitable for treating menstrual cramps. This a very common way people treat vaginal soreness during their period. Aspirin, Tylenol, Motrin, or Aleve are all appropriate pain relievers that relieve menstrual cramps.[4]- Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure the medication does not interfere with another medication you are taking.
- Only use medicines that are safe for you; for example, avoid Ibuprofen if you have high blood pressure and paracetamol if you have asthma.[5]
- Speak with a doctor or pharmacist to make sure an over-the-counter pain reliever is safe for you to use.
Take the medication as instructed. Begin taking the pain relievers as soon as bleeding and cramping begins.[6] This will keep the vaginal soreness at bay. However, be careful not to take too many pills; the back of every over-the-counter medicine will say the maximum dose that can be taken in 24 hours.- Carefully read the instructions before taking any medication.
- Keep the bottle of pills in your purse or pocket when going out, so you do not end up stranded and in pain.
- Never take more than the recommended number of pills.
See a doctor if the pain worsens or does not subside. Sometimes, people experience “secondary dysmenorrhea” during their period, which is severe cramps caused by a disease or other problems in the uterus or pelvic organs.[7] This severe pain usually cannot be maintained with over-the-counter pain relievers.- You will needs to consult a professional to relieve intense or chronic vaginal soreness.
- Intense soreness can be a sign of infection, so call a doctor if the pain is unbearable.
- Your doctor may prescribe stronger pain killers, birth control, or even anti-depressants to help relieve vaginal pain.
Avoid activities that worsen soreness. This can include any number of activities, depending on your lifestyle. Sexual intercourse can be risky because it will increase the amount of friction imposed on an already sore vagina, so only have sex if you feel comfortable. Some other common irritating activities to avoid are:- Biking.
- Sitting on a chair for extended periods of time (lie down instead).
- Anything that causes unnecessary rubbing on your vagina, like walking in very tight jeans or driving for extended periods of time.
Apply a heating pad or hot water bottle to your abdomen and inner thighs. Heating pads or hot water bottles can be purchased online or at your local store. Heating pads need to be plugged in and controlled with an attached remote, and hot water bottles can be filled up with hot or warm water from your sink. Lay the heating pad or bottle on the sorest parts of your body.- Never fall asleep with a heating pad on.
- Buy a sturdy hot water bottle so it will not leak.
- Use as often as needed.
Rest when you feel tired. Relax in bed whenever possible, particularly when the soreness is at its worst. If you have work or school you cannot miss, still try to avoid strenuous activities and stress.
Avoid foods that irritate your stomach. Eating light meals throughout the day that consist of whole grains, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates, while avoiding alcohol, salt, caffeine, and a lot of sugar will help you avoid intestinal issues during your period.[8] As a result, your vagina will suffer from less irritation.
Massage your lower back or abdomen. Using your fingertips, press down lightly in circles around your lower belly button area. Have a friend or significant other rub your lower back if is difficult to reach, or see a professional masseuse.
Expert Q&A
Tips
- If your period is unusually heavy or lasts for 7 or more days, see a doctor immediately.[9]Thanks
- Use more absorbent tampons and pads if your having a problem with blood seeping through your underwear. Remember to change it every eight hours.Thanks
Warnings
- These suggestions are not a substitute for professional medical advice.Thanks
- If you wear tampons and develop a fever, diarrhea, dizziness, or a rash, get medical help immediately, as these are signs of Toxic Shock Syndrome.[10]Thanks
Things You'll Need
- Heating pad or hot water bottle
- An over-the-counter pain reliever
- Vaginal wipes
References
- ↑ https://www.webmd.com/women/menstrual-cramps
- ↑ https://www.ubykotex.com/en-us/resources/period-basics/period-cramps
- ↑ Rebecca Levy-Gantt, MPT, DO. Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist. Expert Interview. 3 April 2020.
- ↑ Rebecca Levy-Gantt, MPT, DO. Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist. Expert Interview. 3 April 2020.
- ↑ https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-145064/Which-painkillers-i-safe-take.html
- ↑ https://www.webmd.com/women/menstrual-cramps?page=2
- ↑ https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003150.htm
- ↑ https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003150.htm
- ↑ Rebecca Levy-Gantt, MPT, DO. Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist. Expert Interview. 3 April 2020.
About This Article
Medical Disclaimer
The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.
For an easy way to stop feeling sore in your vagina during your period, take Aspirin or another over-the-counter pain reliever as soon as you start bleeding or having cramps. In addition, try to avoid activities that can worsen the pain, like sitting for long times, biking, and wearing tight pants. If you still feel uncomfortable, try putting a heating pad or hot water bottle on your abdomen or inner thighs. For tips on how to use diet and massage to reduce soreness, read more!
Reader Success Stories
"What helped me the most would be the Caring for Your Body method. My boyfriend gives me belly and back rubs all the time during my period and it helps a lot!"..." more
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