If you have ever experienced cramping and other types of pain during menstruation, vaginal discomfort can make it difficult to enjoy everyday activities. However, what if you keep experiencing these pains after your period ends or outside your menstrual cycle? You might be wondering if there is an underlying issue. Here are a few of the most common causes of vaginal pain and discomfort and what you can do to find relief. 

Bartholin's Cyst

There are glands on both sides of the vaginal opening called the Bartholin glands. If your vagina suffers an injury or the vagina becomes infected, fluid can become trapped inside the gland, leading to Bartholin's cyst. In some cases, the cyst can form an abscess, especially if an infection causes the cyst.

Symptoms of a Bartholin's cyst include discomfort, swelling, a fever, and sometimes, pain during intercourse. Typically, the cyst does not require medical intervention, and often, you can eliminate the cyst by soaking the vagina. If you experience extreme pain or the cyst does not resolve itself within a few days, contact your gynecologist.

Vaginal Infection

Otherwise known as vaginitis, several different types of vaginal infections can occur. One of the most common is a yeast infection, which is characterized by swelling, itching, pain, and a vaginal discharge. Several different types of bacteria cause bacterial vaginosis, and symptoms include itching, burning, pain, and discharge.

In addition to the symptoms mentioned above, there are other common symptoms of a vaginal infection, including burning during urination and pain during intercourse; it is essential to visit your doctor.

Your gynecologist will use a variety of tests, including a blood or urine test, to pinpoint the exact cause of the infection. This is critical to ensure that you receive the proper treatment.

Endometriosis

Finally, one of the most potentially devastating causes of vaginal pain, both during your period and between menstrual cycles, is endometriosis. Endometriosis occurs when the endometrial tissue lining the uterus begins to grow and spread outside of the uterus. The resulting endometrial lesions can spread beyond the vagina and impact other areas of the body, including the ovaries, bladder, bowels, and intestines.

If you experience extreme vaginal pain, particularly during the latter part of your menstrual cycle, talk to your gynecologist about possible treatments for endometriosis, including medications and, in extreme cases, surgery.

From endometriosis to a vaginal infection, there are several common causes of vaginal pain and discomfort. Contact a local gynecology physician to learn more.