7 (Surprising) Causes of Vaginal Pain

According to MedicineNet.com, the most common cause of vaginal pain is a localized infection, often caused by a yeast infection. Nearly all women have experienced a yeast infection at least once in their lives―more if they're unlucky. But several surprising conditions may also cause vaginal pain, including autoimmune diseases, out-of-control fungus growths or even an allergy to something you wouldn't expect.

7 (Surprising) Causes of Vaginal Pain

Think it's bad enough to suffer through the woes of a painful yeast infection? Think again. The following conditions also cause vaginal pain:

Lichen planus: Many people mistake this flat-topped, violet-colored rash for a sexually transmitted disease (STD), which erupts in clusters around or in the genitals. This can cause minor vaginal pain.

Sjogren's syndrome: Although this autoimmune disease typically targets the glands of the body, it's been known to cause vaginal inflammation. This can lead to moderate vaginal pain, especially during intercourse.

Allergic seminal vulvovaginitis: Sure, the name sounds complicated, but it's just fancy talk for an allergy to semen. Even minor exposure to seminal fluids on or around the labia causes immediate vaginal pain, labial swelling and burning. The solution? Keep the offending member wrapped up.

Lichen sclerosus: Doctors aren't sure why this occurs, but some women are prone to developing small white patches in the genital area, which bruise and tear easily. Obviously, this can cause vaginal pain and bruising. Using a cortisone cream or ointment helps stop the itching that sometimes accompanies this condition.

Torulopsis: Caused by torulopsis glabrata, a naturally-occurring fungus in the gastrointestinal, genitourinary and respiratory system, torulopsis is an uncommon yeast infection that affects the female genitals. Some symptoms of torulopsis include vaginal itching, burning and increased soreness around the genitals.

Nutcracker syndrome: Compression of the left renal vein sometimes causes abdominal or testicular pain in men, commonly called the nutcracker syndrome. In women, this can cause severe vaginal pain, concentrated in the left lower region of the genitals. Early treatment is key to preventing more serious complications.

Bartholin's abscess: This painful condition causes pus to swell in the Bartholin's gland, located on either side of the vaginal opening. Although the pain isn't immediate, severe swelling can cause vaginal pain, swelling and a mild fever. Draining the abscess is the best way to relieve this pain.

Early Treatment is Key
If these conditions have you worried, here's some good news―all of these conditions are easily treatable if you seek medical treatment immediately. Seeing a doctor too much is never a bad thing, but not getting help right away can be devastating for your reproductive health.

Sources:
"Vaginal Pain" (MedicineNet.com)