Physical changes in the genital area should always be taken seriously, as they can be caused by diseases. But what is behind it when the labia swell? We explain the 6 reasons for swollen labia.
Swollen labia can be caused by both harmless and less harmless causes. If your labia are swollen after sex, this is usually not a cause for concern: when aroused, the genital area is supplied with more blood, which causes the vulva and vagina to swell. If this condition persists after sex, the swelling may also be caused by irritation from penetration. This happens especially when the vagina wasn’t wet enough during sex. However, if the symptoms last longer and other symptoms appear, there can also be serious causes behind them.
Also interesting: No sex – this is how your vagina changes >>
Table of Contents
Swollen labia: There are 5 causes
1. Bartholinitis
There are glands on either side of the vaginal opening called Bartholin’s glands. These form the secretion that moistens the vagina during sexual arousal. If one of the two glands becomes inflamed, usually due to a bacterial infection, the duct swells, which means that the glandular secretion can no longer be released and therefore accumulates. Bartholinitis becomes noticeable through a one-sided, painful swelling and reddening, which can also cause pain when walking and sitting.
2. Allergic reaction
If the swelling in the area of the labia occurs regularly after intercourse, an allergic reaction could also be the cause. For example, an allergy to latex, the respective lubricant or, in very rare cases, even an allergy to sperm can trigger the symptoms. Other allergy-typical symptoms are itching, burning, blistering or a burning sensation when urinating. If you suspect an allergy could be behind the symptoms, you should try to find out exactly what you are allergic to by means of a process of elimination. If in doubt, you should consult a doctor.
3. Fungal infection
Likewise, swollen labia can indicate a fungal infection. Almost every woman suffers from a vaginal thrush at least once in her life. This occurs when the natural balance of the sensitive vaginal flora is disturbed and fungi, usually the yeast fungus Candida albicans, gain the upper hand. This happens either through an infection or is favored by factors such as stress, an unhealthy diet or a weakened immune system. Other typical symptoms of a vaginal thrush are swelling, itching, burning and a whitish, crumbly discharge. But be careful: The discharge from a fungal infection is odorless – a fishy smell indicates a bacterial vaginal infectionout, with which you should see a gynecologist.
4. STDs
Chlamydia , gonorrhea or genital herpes – various sexually transmitted diseases can manifest themselves through symptoms such as swelling of the labia. Other possible symptoms include itching, burning, and pain and burning when urinating. Since sexually transmitted diseases can have serious consequences such as infertility, a doctor should always be consulted if there is any suspicion. Also, only have protected sex if you have symptoms yourself, so as not to infect your partner with a possible disease during intercourse.
5. Improper intimate hygiene
In the intimate area in particular, proper hygiene plays a crucial role in preventing possible discomfort. When it comes to personal hygiene, less is more. After all, anyone who washes “downstairs” with aggressive shower gels and soaps runs the risk of the sensitive vaginal flora being thrown off balance, making it easier for pathogens to penetrate and cause infection. As a result, various complaints such as swollen labia can occur. So clean your intimate area with lukewarm water only, change your underwear every day and always wipe from front to back on the toilet and never the other way around. If you don’t want to do without a shower gel, you should use a pH-neutral variant that is especially suitable for the intimate area.
Also interesting: With these 7 tips you can protect your vagina from diseases >>
6. Pregnancy
In fact, pregnancy can also cause the labia to swell. Over time, the baby’s weight can put pressure on the blood vessels of the vulva, which in turn can cause swelling.
