What are the symptoms of swollen lymph nodes in the labia majora?

This is an automatically translated article.

Question
Hello doctor,
I have a swollen lymph node on the big lip of my vagina. It didn’t hurt at first, but walking and sitting back hurt. So the doctor told me that swollen lymph nodes in the vagina are a sign of disease? How is the treatment? Thank you doctor.
Anonymous customer
Answer
Answered by Master, Specialist II Phung Thi Ly – Obstetrician and Gynecologist – Obstetrics Department, Vinmec Times City International Hospital.
Hello,
With the question “What is the sign of lymphadenopathy in the large labia? “, the doctor would like to answer as follows:
If you have swollen lymph nodes in your big lip, sitting with pain, you may have a Bartholin gland cyst. Bartholin’s cyst or Bartholin’s gland inflammation is a cystic lesion of the Bartholin glands. These glands are located on each side of the vulva (the outer area of ​​the vagina). The function of the Bartholin glands is to secrete fluid into the labia majora to keep it moist and lubricated during intercourse.
Sometimes the ducts become blocked, causing fluid to back up into the gland, resulting in the formation of a thin-walled, swollen, painless cyst called a Bartholin’s cyst. If the fluid in the cyst becomes infected, there is a risk of a discharge of pus surrounded by inflamed tissue (abscess) and causing pain when sitting or walking.
Severe cases of Bartholin’s cyst infection can progress in a few days. If an infection is present, the patient may experience the following symptoms:
The appearance of a painful, painful lump near the vagina; Discomfort when walking or sitting; Pain during intercourse; Ideally, you should go to the hospital soon so that the doctors can diagnose and treat you.
If you still have questions about lymph nodes in the labia majora, you can go to the hospital of Vinmec Health System for further examination and advice. Thank you for trusting and sending questions to Vinmec. Wishing you lots of health.
Best regards!

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XEM THÊM:

• Are bartholin cysts dangerous?
• What is a Bartholin cyst and is it dangerous?
• Which gland helps to secrete mucus that lubricates the vagina?

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Bartholin cyst or abscess Information | Mount Sinai

Abscess – Bartholin; Infected Bartholin gland

Bartholin abscess is the buildup of pus that forms a lump (swelling) in one of the Bartholin glands. These glands are found on each side of the vaginal opening.

External structures of the female reproductive anatomy include the labium minora and majora, the vagina and the clitoris. Internal structures include the uterus, ovaries, and cervix.

Bartholin glands are found on each side of the vaginal opening. A Bartholin cyst is a buildup of fluid that occurs if the opening of the gland is blocked. A Bartholin abscess may occur if the cyst fluid becomes infected. The Bartholin cyst or abscess appears as a lump or swelling on the side of the vaginal opening.

Causes

A Bartholin abscess forms when a small opening (duct) from the gland gets blocked. Fluid in the gland builds up and may become infected. Fluid may build up over many years before an abscess occurs.

Often the abscess appears quickly over several days. The area will become very hot and swollen. Activity that puts pressure on the vulva, and walking and sitting, may cause severe pain.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

• A tender lump on either side of the vaginal opening
• Swelling and redness
• Pain with sitting or walking
• Fever, in people with low immunity
• Pain with sexual intercourse
• Vaginal discharge
• Vaginal pressure

Exams and Tests

The health care provider will do a pelvic exam. The Bartholin gland will be enlarged and tender. In rare cases, a biopsy may be suggested in older women to look for a tumor.

Any vaginal discharge or fluid drainage will be sent to a lab for testing.

Treatment

SELF-CARE STEPS

Soaking in warm water 4 times a day for several days can ease the discomfort. It can also help the abscess open and drain on its own. However, the opening is often very small and closes quickly. Therefore, the abscess often returns.

DRAINAGE OF THE ABSCESS

A small surgical cut can completely drain the abscess. This relieves symptoms and provides the fastest recovery.

• The procedure can be done under local anesthesia in a provider’s office.
• A 1 to 2 cm cut is made at the site of abscess. The cavity is irrigated with normal saline. A catheter (tube) may be inserted and left in place for 4 to 6 weeks. This allows continuous drainage while the area heals. Sutures are not required.
• You should begin soaking in warm water 1 to 2 days afterward. You cannot have sexual intercourse until the catheter is removed.

You may be asked to have antibiotics if there is pus or other signs of infection.

MARSUPIALIZATION

Women can also be treated with a minor surgery called marsupialization.

• The procedure involves creating an elliptical opening along the cyst to help the gland drain. The abscess is removed. The provider places stitches at the edges of the cyst.
• The procedure can sometimes be done in the clinic with medicine to numb the area. In other cases, it may need to be done in the hospital with general anesthesia so that you are asleep and pain-free.
• You should begin soaking in warm water 1 to 2 days afterward. You cannot have sexual intercourse for 4 weeks after surgery.
• You can use oral pain medicines after the procedure. Your provider may prescribe narcotic pain medicines if you need them.

EXCISION

Your provider may recommend that the glands be completely removed if abscesses keep coming back.

• The procedure involves surgical removal of the entire cyst wall.
• Generally performed in the hospital under general anesthesia.
• You cannot have sexual intercourse for 4 weeks after surgery.

Outlook (Prognosis)

The chance of a full recovery is excellent. The abscesses may return in few cases.

It is important to treat any vaginal infection that is diagnosed at the same time as the abscess.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your provider if:

• You notice a painful, swollen lump on the labia near the vagina opening and it does not improve with 2 to 3 days of home treatment.
• Pain is severe and interferes with your normal activity.
• You have one of these cysts and develop a fever higher than 100.4°F (38°C).

Ambrose G, Berlin D. Incision and drainage. In: Roberts JR, Custalow CB, Thomsen TW, eds. Roberts and Hedges’ Clinical Procedures in Emergency Medicine and Acute Care. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 37.

Dolan MS, Hill C, Valea FA. Benign gynecologic lesions: vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, oviduct, ovary, ultrasound imaging of pelvic structures. In: Gershenson DM, Lentz GM, Valea FA, Lobo RA, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 18.

Smith RP. Bartholin gland cyst/abscess drainage. In: Smith RP, ed. Netter’s Obstetrics and Gynecology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 251.

Tuggy ML. Bartholin cyst and abscess: word catheter insertion marsupialization. In: Fowler GC, ed. Pfenninger and Fowler’s Procedures for Primary Care. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 118.

Last reviewed on: 4/19/2022

Reviewed by: John D. Jacobson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A. D.A.M. Editorial team.

Bartholinitis – causes and types of disease

Causes of bartholinitis

Inflammation in the Bartholin gland is caused by infectious agents that enter it from the vagina or urinary tract. The causative agent of the disease can be gonococcus, Trichomonas or other microorganisms. Cases of spread of infection through the blood are known.

The entry of a pathogen into the gland does not always cause bartholinitis. The onset of the inflammatory process is provoked by various external and internal factors:

• chronic diseases: caries, pyelonephritis, sinusitis and other sources of infection in the body;
• weak immunity against the background of a cold, lack of vitamins, stress, pregnancy;
• damage to the Bartholin gland as a result of surgery, abortion;
• promiscuous and unprotected sexual intercourse, etc.

At the initial stage, inflammation of the mucous membranes occurs. The natural outflow of the secret is blocked – the secretions begin to accumulate in the gland and form a cyst. Gradually education grows. The cyst of the Bartholin’s gland is filled with purulent contents, and an abscess occurs. A woman can feel education on her own. The abscess is located on the labia, looks like a small bump, painful when pressed.

Forms and symptoms of bartholinitis

According to the severity of the course, inflammation is acute and chronic.

Acute bartholinitis begins with canaculitis. Inflammation affects only one gland, so local symptoms are one-sided. Bilateral canaculitis usually occurs when infected with gonorrhea. The patient during this period may not feel acute symptoms. Anxious signs are noticed by the doctor during the examination. Redness appears at the exit site of the gland duct. The channel itself for the discharge of the secret begins to be palpated well. When pressed, a purulent discharge appears from the gland. At the stage of canaculitis, inflammation can be stopped quickly enough. If no action is taken, the swelling will increase and block the duct. Gradually, the inflammation will move to the gland itself.

Acute bartholinitis exists in two forms:

• true abscess. The infectious agent penetrates the body of the gland. Patients complain of severe pain that worsens with movement. Inguinal lymph nodes increase, a large edema is formed. Fever and high body temperature – up to 40 degrees are added to the signs of bartholinitis. Opening an abscess brings only temporary relief. In addition, damage to the cyst with purulent bartholinitis can lead to sepsis, so you can’t squeeze out the bump on your own – it’s life-threatening. At the first signs, it is necessary to enroll in gynecology to receive qualified assistance;
• False abscess (formed during the progression of canaculitis). A woman with bartholinitis complains of an increase in body temperature up to 37.5 degrees, pain in the perineum. One-sided swelling appears on the labia at the location of the abscess. The focus of infection is not in the gland, but next to it. As pus accumulates, the cyst increases in size, becomes painful, and the skin turns red.

Chronic bartholinitis is a consequence of an untreated acute form. Short remissions are replaced by exacerbations. The next cycle, any infection, stress, beriberi, etc. can provoke a relapse. The chronic form is difficult to treat even when the exact cause of inflammation is established.

Subacute bartholinitis is also distinguished, but such a diagnosis is rare. The disease is characterized by the subsidence of acute symptoms and gradually turns into a chronic process.

Bartholinitis during pregnancy

Any inflammation in the female genital organs is a danger to the fetus. That is why pregnant patients should regularly come to see a gynecologist and take tests. Preventing inflammation is much easier than treating it.

During pregnancy, a natural decrease in immunity occurs. The body suppresses defense reactions so as not to reject the fetus, which is 50% genetically alien. Under such conditions, the mother’s body cannot provide a reliable barrier to infection. When it enters the genital tract, the pathogens rise up and reach the uterus. A disease such as bartholinitis threatens intrauterine infection of the fetus through the umbilical cord. Infections cause multiple mutations, interfere with the processes of organogenesis. In critical cases, we are talking about abortion.

Complications can be avoided with early registration in gynecology and timely diagnosis of inflammation. The doctor may already suspect a dangerous situation based on the results of a smear, even before the onset of symptoms. Inflammation is stopped, not allowing it to spread in the genitals. Under medical supervision, women calmly carry the pregnancy to natural childbirth.

Diagnosis of bartholinitis

The doctor begins by taking an anamnesis and examining the patient. Before your appointment, be prepared to answer the following questions:

• the date of the beginning and end of the last menstruation;
• the onset of puberty and intimate life;
• the nature of menstruation;
• number of pregnancies and their outcome;
• the time of onset of the first symptoms and the rate of their increase;
• the nature of the complaints;
• the presence of bad habits, other provoking factors.

After collecting an anamnesis, the patient is examined on a gynecological chair. On the external genitalia, bartholinitis is visible visually. The doctor examines the abscess, takes a smear from the walls of the vagina and a sample of the secretion of the gland. The received materials are sent for laboratory research. Only after receiving the results of the tests, the doctor can confidently diagnose and prescribe treatment for bartholinitis cysts. Analyzes are then taken several more times to monitor the effectiveness of therapy.

Treatment of bartholinitis

Do not try to heal yourself! Compresses, baths, attempts to open and clean the abscess end very badly. Patients often come to the appointment after self-treatment with severe fever, extensive inflammation, which requires urgent hospitalization. Don’t risk your health. Contact your doctor in a timely manner.

In the initial stage, doctors treat bartholinitis without surgery. The patient is selected a scheme of conservative therapy, prescribed antifungal drugs, antibiotics. To normalize the intestinal microflora, you will need products with bifidobacteria and vitamins. Surgical removal of a Bartholin gland cyst is not required. To relieve swelling a little, you can apply a heating pad or any other ice container wrapped in a soft cloth to the inflamed area. For treatment, therapeutic tampons with levomecol, Vishnevsky ointment, saline applications, solutions of chlorhexidine, miramistin are also used.

After removing the exacerbation, sitz baths are prescribed with a weak solution of potassium permanganate (1 sl. L. per 1 liter of water). You can use a decoction of chamomile for the same purpose. Bath time – 20 minutes. After the condition improves, they proceed to physiotherapy.

A woman must strictly follow the doctor’s recommendations – this is the only way to prevent the complications of bartholinitis.

A true abscess requires surgery. Operations on the Bartholin’s gland are carried out by two methods:

• Complete removal – extirpation. The doctor excised diseased tissue, removes the gland along with the focus of inflammation. After the operation, the woman goes through a period of rehabilitation with complete sexual rest;
• Formation of a new gland duct. An incision is made in the tissues to remove the secret. The technique helps to temporarily alleviate the patient’s condition, but the risk of recurrence of bartholinitis is high. The incisions quickly overgrow, a cyst is formed again.

There are more gentle, modern methods of treating bartholinitis in gynecology. An annular catheter is installed in the body of the gland (marsupialization operation). Within 2 months, the catheter performs the functions of a natural duct and promotes secretion. Such an operation is less traumatic, the risk of recurrence is minimal. During the rehabilitation period, a woman undergoes a course of magnetotherapy, UV irradiation.

Expert opinion

Women who regularly come for examinations to the gynecologist can see such a diagnosis in the chart as an asymptomatic course of a Bartholin gland cyst. The doctor does not comment on this situation in any way, does not prescribe pills, the patient begins to worry. But there is no reason to panic. A cyst with asymptomatic treatment does not require any radical measures. Regular monitoring, proper hygiene, balanced nutrition are necessary. The female body, with sufficient support, copes with the stagnation of the secret on its own. Therefore, listen to your doctor and do not self-medicate.

Prevention of bartholinitis

To reduce the risk of inflammation, it is necessary to strengthen the immune system, observe the rules of intimate hygiene, and have sexual relations with one regular partner. It is important to treat gynecological diseases in time and at least once a year undergo a preventive examination by a doctor.

Be careful with your choice of underwear. It should be sufficiently free, elastic, made of natural fabrics. For intimate hygiene, use gels with a neutral pH, without dyes and fragrances. A healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition is the best prevention for most diseases.

The doctors of the Alfa Health Center clinic will help you cope with bartholinitis and restore your women’s health. Call us to make an appointment and find out the price of the consultation.

Sources:

1. Clinical protocol for the diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory diseases of the perineum, vulva, vagina. Electronic version.

2. Bartholinitis. Medical encyclopedia. Electronic version.

Why swollen labia and what to do?

Why swollen labia

Some women, faced with a pathological lesion of intimate areas, are horrified and embarrassed by the need to seek help from a qualified doctor. Such an occasion to come to the gynecologist may be a situation when the labia is swollen, and if this is accompanied by redness, unpleasant vaginal discharge, itching and pain symptoms, then it becomes scary to hear the diagnosis.

Why labia swell

Knowledge is not redundant. And, before you go to see a doctor, it would not be superfluous to get acquainted with the reasons that can answer the question of why the labia swell? The reasons provoking swelling of this intimate zone can be quite extensive, and before proceeding to stop the problem, it is necessary to correctly determine the source, since only by eliminating it, you can get rid of unpleasant symptoms.

• Bartholinitis can be considered one of the most common diseases that provoke a tumor of the labia. This is an inflammatory process caused by an infection that has entered the woman’s body, occurring in the Bartholin gland and burdened with purulent foci. The gland is located directly at the “entrance” into the vagina. A cyst, which had previously formed in the gland and began to fester, is also capable of provoking such a manifestation.

The symptoms of this disease can be identified as hyperemia of the epidermis, which is located in the immediate vicinity of the outlet duct of the gland, as a result of ongoing inflammation. There is swelling of the labia, their area becomes painful, especially the discomfort is aggravated by walking and intercourse. Bartholinitis can be aggravated by purulent abscesses and cysts.

If the disease is diagnosed at an early stage, then the result of therapy is quite favorable, perhaps even self-healing. Otherwise, bartholinitis comes to an abscess. The ongoing inflammatory and purulent process often causes an increase in body temperature.

The task of the Bartholin gland is the production of “lubrication” (special mucus). If there is a malfunction in its work and the production of mucus decreases, this causes dryness of the genital organs, which brings discomfort during coitus and injury to the genital organs.

• The second cause that provokes swelling of the labia is vulvovaginitis (an inflammatory process in the tissues of the labia). The reason for its appearance may be: irritation of the labia by mechanical contact or due to vaginal discharge, which have undergone a composite adjustment due to the lack or lack of hygiene of this intimate area. With this pathology, a woman can observe swelling of the genital organs, feel itching and other manifestations that lead to discomfort.
• Quite common is candidiasis (or it is also known as thrush), which gives similar symptoms. A distinctive feature of this disease are: curdled discharge from the vagina, an unpleasant sour smell, itching, pain symptoms inside the vagina directly during intercourse.
• Pain in the intimate area, and directly in the labia, their swelling, the cause of which is quite difficult to establish, may be the result of progressive vulvodynia, which is provoked by prolonged use of antibiotics or in the case of chronic candidiasis.
• If the labia is swollen, but in addition there is painful urination and unpleasant fetid discharge of a greenish-yellow hue, the skin itches, such symptoms may indicate the presence of one of such diseases as vulvitis (inflammation of the external genital organs) or vaginitis (inflammation of the vagina). This pathology could be provoked by the lack of hygiene of the reproductive organs, abortion, trauma, frequent change of sexual partner, and many others.
• The cause of puffiness can also be an allergic reaction of the sensitive skin of intimate areas to the friction of underwear or the material of the product.

You should not assign yourself a diagnosis on your own, only a qualified specialist can diagnose the correct one. The diagnosis is made on the basis of a complex of gynecological examinations and examinations, bacterioscopy. Only after that, a therapy protocol is signed for a specific reason, which includes antibacterial and immunomodulatory drugs, special medical procedures and other necessary measures.

When the labia minora swells

Everything in the human body is harmonious, not the last role in the life of a woman is played by the labia minora, which begin to grow and develop during the puberty of a girl along with her breasts. In Western countries, they are of the opinion that it is not correct to divide this organ into small and large labia, since in thirty percent of women the so-called small lips are larger in size than large ones. Therefore, there you can find the phrase inner labia – internal, outer labia – outer labia.

If you are worried that the labia minora is swollen, you should not immediately panic. First of all, it is worth understanding the reason for such swelling. Nature initially laid down that the small lips swell in the process of sexual fantasies, direct mechanical stimulation of the reproductive organs of a woman or in the case of direct sexual contact – and this is an absolute norm. Such swelling is not dangerous, and subsequently, when sexual arousal subsides, the size of the labia minora returns to its original state and dimensional parameters.

If the labia minora is swollen during arousal, then this is not only safe, but also brings certain benefits, preparing the hostess for further intimate life. This natural physiological process usually subsides after an hour or two after peak excitement, sometimes such a regression drags on for four to twelve hours.

Increased swelling of the inner labia can be observed already in an adult woman in the process of coition itself and the reason for this may be rubbing them with the partner’s reproductive organ. As a rule, in this case, the use of a special anti-allergenic lubricant is sufficient. Some girls are worried about the dangers of masturbation. You need to calm them down right away. If, in the process of arousal, a woman does not have a rough, damaging effect on her organs, then there is nothing to worry about. Due to self-satisfaction, if the above is fulfilled, there is no coarsening or redness of the skin, there is no change in their original size. All gossip and conjectures are connected with simple ignorance of physiology.

And now it’s worth figuring out in which case it is necessary to sound the alarm and seek the advice of a doctor.

• If there is a change in the consistency, odor or color of the vaginal discharge.
• If a woman begins to feel discomfort in the genital area, itching (in such a situation, it is first necessary to make sure that the delicate skin is not damaged by cracks or scratches, which are easy to get when removing hair in the intimate area).
• In the event that previously unobserved indurations are felt during palpation.
• The appearance of various neoplasms on the skin.

In such a situation, you should not engage in self-diagnosis and self-treatment, such self-confidence can be quite dangerous and lead to undesirable consequences. It would be more reasonable to undergo an examination by an obstetrician – gynecologist and get his advice, which should not be postponed.

Causes of swelling of the labia majora

If a woman feels that her big lip is swollen and this brings some discomfort, you should not let everything take its course, follow it, you may be able to independently determine the cause of the swelling.

• These may be natural, physiologically based processes that will not bring any harm.
• The reason that the large lip is swollen may be an infection that is sexually transmitted.
• This may also be due to a lack of hygiene of the genitals.
• Infectious and parasitic lesions can also provoke an increase in the size of the outer parts of the intimate zone.
• Puffiness can be provoked by tight, uncomfortable clothes that rub underwear.

Therefore, if the pathology does not go away, one cannot do without the help of a specialist. And you shouldn’t put off going to the doctor until later.

Causes of itching and swelling of the labia

The skin in the area of ​​the labia is particularly sensitive, so if a woman begins to feel itching and swollen labia in the intimate area, then it is definitely necessary to pay more attention to this problem. These two combinations can be symptoms of rather unpleasant diseases, but only a doctor can determine the correct cause of the pathology. Therefore, if the irritation persists, and did not arise, for example, after shaving the intimate area and is able to disappear on its own, you should consult a gynecologist. The doctor will conduct a visual examination and prescribe a number of diagnostic studies, only after that we can talk about an adequate diagnosis and the appointment of effective therapy.

A medical problem when itching and swollen labia is felt, and which must be solved by medication, may be the following pathology:

Vulvovaginitis – inflammation occurring in the external genitalia. It can develop due to irritation caused by rubbing with underwear (the size or model does not fit) or due to an allergic reaction of the girl’s skin to the material of the underwear itself or its trim (lace, rollers, elastic bands). Vulvovaginitis can also develop as a result of active, rough, damaging the skin, masturbation. Mostly, it occurs in adolescents. And also pathology can appear due to infection, wearing dirty panties, failure to follow the basic rules of intimate hygiene.

In addition to the already indicated symptoms, this disease is also noted by such manifestations:

• pain symptoms during urination and movement.
• hyperemia of the skin.
• may be added unnatural discharge, mostly greenish-yellow hue and their unpleasant odor.
• The appearance of pain symptoms in the area of ​​the vaginal entrance may indicate vulvodynia. This pathology is quite difficult to diagnose, as it is capable of covering more than one organ with a lesion. Vulvodynia is an inflammatory process that captures the nerve endings located in the vulva. In addition to problematic diagnosis, this pathology is also distinguished by a long period of treatment therapy, which is based on antibiotics. The symptomatology of this disease is akin to many diseases of the genital area, including sexually transmitted infections. And the correct diagnosis is not only a physiological problem, but also a psychological one. After all, no one wants to hear that he, for example, is infected with syphilis.
• Itching and swollen labia can also give thrush (or candidiasis), the causative agent, which becomes candida, parasites of fungal origin. In any healthy organism, they are present in a limited amount, but if, in the event of certain circumstances, their quantitative growth occurs, affecting the microflora of the vagina, in this case, doctors talk about candidiasis.
• Additional symptomatology may be the appearance of pain during the sexual intercourse itself and after its completion. Their localization is the vagina itself and the entrance to it. There is also redness and irritation of the skin, there are discharges similar to cottage cheese with an unpleasant sour smell, which irritate the sensitive skin of the intimate zone.
• Gardnerellosis – this is another possible cause of swelling and itching of the external genitalia. This disease can also be called vaginal dysbacteriosis. The causative agent of this pathology is the parasitic microorganism Gardnella vaginalis.

In addition to the already known symptoms, this pathology is different:

• The appearance of pain in the genitals and in the inguinal zone.
• There is painful urination.
• The discharge becomes watery, becomes frothy, the color becomes grayish green. The liquid has an unpleasant smell of rotten fish.

Summing up the above, it is necessary to focus on the fact that the result of treatment largely depends on how early the patient turned to the doctor for help and how correct the treatment was.

Why are the labia swollen and itchy

In light of the multitude of fungi and infections that exist in the world and are ready to “settle” in the human body, any discomfort in the intimate area should alert a woman. After all, there are pathologies that for the time being do not manifest themselves, and they can only be detected by passing a preventive examination by a gynecologist. Therefore, one should not neglect this possibility, because some lesions are treated quite simply, while others require more attention, effort and time. Therefore, if a woman observes that her labia is swollen and itchy, immediately see a specialist. Only a certified doctor can make a diagnosis and prescribe an adequate treatment.

It is worth noting that such symptoms give the hostess tangible discomfort. The desire to scratch an itchy place leads to the formation of sores, which bring not only pain, but also are the “gates” through which various infections freely enter. The desire to scratch an intimate place can also meet with psychological discomfort, especially when a person is in a public place or the climatic features of the living area become an obstacle.

Why do labia swell after sex

Some still inexperienced girls are frightened by the situation when their lips are swollen after sex: she is in a panic and scared. In fact, nothing terrible happened, because the labia of a woman is equipped with a large number of venous and arterial vessels, nerve endings. Since one of the erogenous zones of the female body is located in this place, their increased sensitivity leads, with any kindness or simple touch, to irritation of the nerve receptors and a rush of blood, which provokes swelling of the lips of the genital area. A quantitative increase in their size depends on the individual characteristics of the body of the fair sex.

But still, it is not worth discounting the pathological lesion. If the change in the size of the labia is directly related only to the coitus, then you should not worry, but if the swelling does not go away even after 12 hours after intercourse, you should think about visiting a doctor, as the cause may be a disease.

Causes of swelling of the clitoris and labia

In most cases, there is nothing to worry about in a situation where the clitoris and labia are swollen – this may be the result of natural sexual arousal caused by sexual fantasies, partner caresses or masturbation. During the period of sexual pleasure, blood flows to the genitals of a woman, including the clitoris, which causes them to swell. This is a natural process that allows a woman to prepare for intercourse. Therefore, you should not worry about a swollen clitoris and labia. The swelling will subside by itself some time after the completion of sexual intercourse.

Another question is if this symptomatology persists even after 12 hours. If concomitant pathological symptoms are also observed, then the direct road to an examination by a gynecologist, and this visit should not be postponed, since such manifestations can be caused by both a bacterial infection and an imbalance in the vaginal microflora caused by a failure in the ratio of various microorganisms.

Causes of swollen labia during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a special period in a woman’s life, which is due to a significant restructuring of the body of the future mother, it also affects the woman’s genital area. The fact that the labia is swollen during pregnancy can be detected by both the woman herself and the obstetrician-gynecologist examining her. This is especially noticeable during the second and third trimester. During this period, the blood flow to the area of ​​​​the uterus and to the labia increases, which makes them more edematous. This situation is absolutely normal and due to physiology. The blood flow is the transport of nutrients and trace elements, which are so necessary for the normal growth and development of the fetus. The mother’s body is preparing for childbirth and blood flow is an important fact in this preparation, designed to facilitate the process of childbirth.

But do not remove the control of the state of intimate places. If puffiness is associated with unnatural secretions and an unpleasant odor, it is necessary to inform the obstetrician – gynecologist, because an infection can give such symptoms.

Other reasons can also affect the size of the labia. During the period of bearing a child, the activity of blood circulation in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bsome organs decreases, as they give in to the pressure of the uterus and the growing fetus, which compress the blood arteries. The consequences of such exposure may be dark ball-shaped seals (varicose labia). A third of pregnant women are faced with such a pathology, but in the normal course of pregnancy after the completion of childbirth, varicose veins resolve on their own. Sometimes such a ball can burst, causing bleeding.

Swelling of the labia during pregnancy is not an indication for a caesarean section, however, in some cases, an obstetrician-gynecologist can take such a step.

In order not to complicate the situation, it is necessary to wear comfortable underwear made from natural material. The expectant mother should rest normally, sleep only on her side, allowing the blood to circulate freely.

But the cause of swelling can be an infectious disease. In this case, other unpleasant phenomena are added to the swelling. For example,

• Rash in the form of blisters.
• Itching and scabies of the labia.
• Unpleasant discharge.
• Erosive – ulcerative lesions of the mucosa.
• Increased body temperature.

In the event of the appearance of at least one of the items of accompanying symptoms, it is necessary to notify the doctor in charge of the pregnancy. He will examine the pregnant woman and take a smear on the flora. Do not forget that some infections are quite dangerous, especially while carrying a baby. Such a defeat can lead to premature birth, miscarriage, death of the nascent life in the womb, as well as lead to genetic changes in the fetus and its subsequent disability.

Other infections may pose a lesser danger to the life and health of the fetus, but their development should not be condoned.

Causes of swollen labia in thrush

There are microorganisms that live in us constantly, without showing their presence. And only a combination of certain factors can become a catalyst for their reproduction. These microorganisms include Candida, which provoke the development of candidiasis. This pathology is less dangerous for the course of pregnancy, but still delivers a lot of unpleasant minutes. Swollen labia with thrush – this is one of the symptoms of this pathology. Its accompanying symptoms are necessarily unusual white curdled abundant discharge. This irritating factor begins to cause itching in the genitals. You want to scratch them all the time, which in turn leads to even more swelling, hyperemia and the appearance of small wounds that can become additional “gates” for another infection. During coitus and after it, a woman may be haunted by pain in the vagina and at the exit from it.

If similar symptoms are observed, it is worth contacting a specialist and undergoing the necessary examination. Modern therapy of thrush with antifungal drugs is quite successful and takes only a few days.

Treatment of swollen labia

If discomfort appears in the area of ​​​​the intimate zone, you should not postpone going to a specialist in the hope that everything will go away on its own. In this situation, a doctor – a gynecologist or a dermato – venereologist can help. Only he is able to conduct a comprehensive examination and make the correct diagnosis. And only after establishing the root cause, a specialist can write a protocol for the treatment of swollen labia, which is due to the identified pathology.

In most cases, this is the use of antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial drugs.

For example, the effective antifungal drug flucostat is used to combat many fungal infections. The drug is prescribed in an amount of 50 to 150 mg taken once a day. The duration of admission can vary from two to four weeks. This parameter is controlled by the attending physician, depending on the causative agent of the disease, the severity of the pathology and the general health of the patient.

Flucostat contraindications include increased susceptibility to triazole compounds, the period of gestation, breastfeeding, and children under one year of age.

An analogue of flucostat is fluconazole, which is used orally according to a scheme similar to the first drug. The only difference is that it is somewhat weaker than the first, so it is prescribed in a slightly higher dosage. Its quantitative component is determined only by the attending doctor.

The doctor may prescribe antihistamine drugs if an allergic reaction of any genesis is diagnosed.

Amizol (Amyzol) is prescribed orally orally. The daily dosage involves the introduction of 0.75 – 1 g of the drug, divided into three doses. It is not recommended to take this drug if a patient is found to have hypersensitivity to the components of amizole, with myocardial infarction, pregnancy.

Loratadine-Verte (Loratadine-Verte) is administered orally at 10 mg once a day. In the case of diagnosing renal or hepatic insufficiency, the dose of the drug is halved or the same amount is applied, but every other day.

It is not recommended to prescribe to patients with hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, in case of pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Often, the doctor prescribes an antiseptic: topical ointment or tincture.

Betadine is applied in a small layer to the disturbing place two to three times throughout the day, so as not to spoil the underwear, you can use an occlusive dressing or a regular pad.

Contraindications of the drug include: hypersensitivity to the components of the drug and pathological malfunctions of the thyroid gland. Use with caution during pregnancy and lactation.

In the case of dysbacteriosis, the attending physician may prescribe medications to the patient, designed to maintain the balance of necessary beneficial bacteria in the intestines. Such, for example, as Canadian yogurt, linex, bifidobacteria, which the doctor ascribes orally, one to two suppositories in three daily approaches. The drug is taken half an hour before a meal. The duration of therapy is adjusted by the attending physician and can last from one to two weeks, and in severe, protracted pathologies, up to a month.

During pregnancy, the drug is administered one suppository one to two times throughout the day (the drug is used in this case only for mild pathology).

It is not recommended to use the drug only in case of hypersensitivity of the patient’s body.

It will not be superfluous to use drugs that stimulate the immune system, such as, for example, apilac, imudon, imunorix, sodium nucleinate, methyluracil.

The biological stimulant apilac is taken sublingually (under the tongue), 10 mg of the drug three times a day. The duration of the course of treatment is from 10 to 15 days.

Contraindications for the use of apilac include Addison’s disease (decreased adrenal function), hereditary hypersensitivity to the components of the drug (idiosyncrasy), including beekeeping products. Imunorix is ​​an excellent drug that stimulates the growth of immunity. Taking the drug is not tied to the time of consumption of food. A single dose of 0.8 g, which corresponds to two bottles, is applied twice a day. The course of treatment involves 15 days of use, in the case of maintenance therapy, the duration of the use of the drug can be determined by two months.

The use of imunorix is ​​not recommended in case of diagnosing such pathologies as increased intolerance to pimotiod or parabens, other components of the drug, with a predisposition to allergies, in the case of hyperimmunoglobulinemia E, the attending physician controls the drug intake. Do not prescribe it during pregnancy, breastfeeding.

What to do if the labia is swollen

The question arose, what to do if the labia is swollen? The answer is unequivocal – contact a medical institution for an examination and for consultation with a specialist. The doctor will look, prescribe the necessary studies. There are many cases when the swelling of the labia is associated with natural physiological processes occurring in the body of a woman. Such options do not require any external influence and are able to pass on their own.

To eliminate the appearance of this symptomatology as much as possible, it is necessary to adhere to a few simple rules in your daily life:

• Careful care and fulfillment of all intimate hygiene requirements.
• Regular daily change of underwear, it should not be dirty.
• Underwear must be of a comfortable fit and size. It should not rub or hinder movement.
• It is advisable to wear underwear made from natural fabrics, this will reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
• Monitor your diet. Sometimes the use of certain products can provoke an allergy, which will lead to swelling and itching of the tissues of an intimate place, including the labia.
• If this pathology is accompanied by concomitant symptoms, it is necessary, “without delay” to seek help from a doctor and follow all his recommendations.
• If there is dryness of the vaginal mucosa, it is necessary to use special intimate gels that will protect the genitals from injury during intercourse.
• When removing hair from intimate areas, use only your own razor, in case of severe irritation, use an antiseptic.
• In everyday life it is better to use white pads. They contain fewer dyes, which can be an additional impetus to an allergic reaction.
• A stressful situation can also provoke the considered pathology. Try to be less nervous.
• Do everything possible to avoid abortions.
• Do not spray on multiple sexual partners. This carelessness increases the risk of infection.
• Do not neglect regular preventive examinations.

Only an attentive attitude to your body will allow you to avoid multiple health troubles.

The issue of healthy genital organs worries everyone, but it is especially relevant for women of childbearing age, therefore, if any discomfort occurs in the intimate areas, including when the labia is swollen, it is worth determining its root cause and her attending doctor will help the woman in this.