Vulva Pain? Why It's Hurting & Medically Approved Next Steps

Pain in the vulva can be uncomfortable, frustrating, and sometimes scary. The good news is that most causes of vulva pain are treatable. The key is understanding what might be going on and knowing when to seek medical care.

The vulva includes the outer parts of the female genitals — the labia (inner and outer lips), clitoris, vaginal opening, and surrounding skin. Because this area has many nerve endings and delicate skin, it's especially sensitive to irritation, infection, and hormonal changes.

Below, you'll find common reasons for vulva pain, what symptoms to watch for, and medically recommended next steps.

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Common Causes of Vulva Pain

1. Irritation or Contact Dermatitis

One of the most common causes of vulva pain is simple irritation.

The vulva is sensitive to:

• Scented soaps or body washes
• Bubble baths
• Laundry detergents
• Tight clothing or synthetic underwear
• Pads or panty liners
• Feminine hygiene sprays

Symptoms may include:

• Burning
• Stinging
• Redness
• Mild swelling
• Itching

Next steps:
Switch to fragrance-free products, wear breathable cotton underwear, and avoid overwashing. The vulva does not need harsh cleansing — warm water is often enough.

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2. Yeast Infections

A vaginal yeast infection can cause pain that extends to the vulva.

Common symptoms include:

• Intense itching
• Burning
• Redness
• Thick white discharge (often described as cottage cheese–like)
• Pain during urination or sex

Yeast infections are common and usually treated with antifungal medication (over-the-counter or prescription).

If it's your first infection or symptoms are severe, speak to a doctor to confirm the diagnosis.

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3. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

While BV primarily affects the vagina, the vulva can feel irritated or sore.

Symptoms may include:

• Thin gray or white discharge
• Fishy odor
• Mild burning

BV requires prescription antibiotics. It does not usually cause severe vulva pain, so if pain is intense, another cause should be considered.

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4. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Certain STIs can cause vulva pain, especially if sores or lesions are present.

Examples include:

• Genital herpes – painful blisters or ulcers
• Chlamydia or gonorrhea – may cause irritation or discharge
• Syphilis – painless sores in early stages

If you notice:

• Blisters
• Open sores
• Unusual discharge
• Pain during urination

You should seek medical testing promptly. Early treatment prevents complications.

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5. Vulvodynia

Vulvodynia is chronic vulva pain lasting at least three months without a clear cause. It is a recognized medical condition.

Pain may feel like:

• Burning
• Stinging
• Rawness
• Throbbing
• Pain during sex or tampon use

The vulva may look completely normal.

Treatment options include:

• Topical medications
• Nerve pain medications
• Pelvic floor physical therapy
• Counseling if pain impacts emotional wellbeing

If pain has lasted for months and testing hasn't found infection or skin disease, ask a doctor about vulvodynia.

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6. Bartholin's Cyst or Abscess

The Bartholin's glands sit on either side of the vaginal opening. If blocked, they can form a cyst.

Symptoms include:

• Swelling on one side of the vulva
• Tenderness
• Pain when sitting or walking
• Fever (if infected)

If the cyst becomes infected, it can turn into an abscess and become very painful.

If you notice any bumps or swellings around the vulva, a free AI-powered symptom checker can help you quickly understand possible causes and determine whether you need to see a doctor right away.

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7. Skin Conditions Affecting the Vulva

The vulva can develop skin conditions just like any other part of the body.

Examples include:

• Lichen sclerosus – thin, white, fragile skin
• Lichen planus – inflammation causing soreness or discharge
• Psoriasis or eczema

Symptoms may include:

• Persistent itching
• Pain
• Skin color changes
• Cracking or bleeding

These conditions require medical evaluation and often prescription creams.

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8. Hormonal Changes

Low estrogen levels — especially during menopause, breastfeeding, or certain medical treatments — can cause vulva dryness and thinning.

This may lead to:

• Burning
• Pain during sex
• Irritation
• Increased sensitivity

Topical estrogen therapy is often very effective and medically approved when appropriate.

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9. Trauma or Injury

Vulva pain can also result from:

• Friction during sex
• Bicycle riding
• Childbirth
• Accidental injury

In most cases, symptoms improve with rest and avoiding further irritation.

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When Vulva Pain Could Be Serious

Most vulva pain is not life-threatening. However, seek urgent medical care if you have:

• Severe swelling and fever
• Rapidly worsening pain
• Spreading redness
• Signs of allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, facial swelling)
• A painful lump that's getting bigger
• Unexplained bleeding
• A sore that doesn't heal

Rarely, persistent changes in the vulva — especially lumps, skin thickening, or non-healing sores — can signal vulvar cancer. While uncommon, early evaluation is important.

If something feels wrong or unusual for you, trust that instinct and speak to a doctor.

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What You Can Do Right Now

If your vulva is hurting, here are safe first steps:

• Use only warm water to clean the area
• Avoid scented products
• Wear loose cotton underwear
• Avoid tight pants
• Skip pads or liners unless necessary
• Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer if dryness is present
• Avoid self-diagnosing repeatedly without improvement

If symptoms last more than a few days, worsen, or keep coming back, it's time for medical evaluation.

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How Doctors Evaluate Vulva Pain

A doctor may:

• Ask detailed questions about symptoms
• Perform a gentle physical exam
• Test for infections
• Swab discharge
• Evaluate skin changes
• Possibly refer you to a gynecologist or dermatologist

Be honest about symptoms, even if they feel embarrassing. Doctors are trained to handle these concerns professionally.

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Emotional Impact of Vulva Pain

Chronic vulva pain can affect:

• Intimacy
• Self-esteem
• Mental health
• Daily comfort

If pain is ongoing, support matters. Treatment often involves both physical and emotional care.

You are not overreacting by seeking help.

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Bottom Line

Vulva pain is common and usually treatable. Causes range from simple irritation to infections, cysts, skin conditions, or chronic pain syndromes.

Pay attention to:

• How long the pain lasts
• Whether there is swelling, discharge, or sores
• If pain is mild, moderate, or severe
• Any fever or systemic symptoms

If you notice lumps or swelling, consider using a free, online symptom check for Bumps or swellings around the vulva to better understand possible causes.

Most importantly, speak to a doctor if:

• Pain is severe
• Symptoms are worsening
• You have a fever
• You see sores or unusual growths
• Pain lasts longer than a few days without improvement
• You are concerned about something serious

While many vulva conditions are manageable and not dangerous, only a healthcare professional can rule out infections, abscesses, or rare but serious conditions.

Your comfort matters. Your health matters. If your vulva is hurting, you deserve clear answers and proper care.