- Sexual Health
- Women’s Health
Vaginal Pain
Vaginal pain treatment available online
If you're having vaginal pain during sex or in general, consult with a doctor to prescribe treatment for discomfort. Speak to a board-certified doctor online to get a new prescription or refill to treat vaginal pain and find relief.*
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Comprehensive care for recurring vaginal pain
Variety of potential causes of vaginal pain
Relief from pain, burning, and irritation
*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor's discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how to save up to 80% with our prescription discount card. PlushCare doctors cannot treat all cases of vaginal pain. Our primary care physicians can conduct an initial evaluation of your symptoms but may need to refer you to a specialist or for in-person treatment. If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Learn about vaginal pain
One can experience moderate to severe vaginal pain at some point in life. There are multiple types of conditions that the discomfort may be classified as. Vulvodynia is pain, burning, irritation, or discomfort in or around the vulva. It is a chronic pain with no definite cause, and its symptoms can vary from as low as 3 months to as many years. Endometriosis is a condition in which similar tissue lined within the uterus grows in other areas of the pelvis outside of the uterus. Pelvic floor dysfunction issues may also be a cause for pain.
Vaginal pain causes
Vaginal Pain can have many causes. Here are some of the more common ones:
Vaginal Dryness
This can be caused by menopause, breastfeeding, or certain medications.
Bacterial Infection
A UTI, yeast infection, or STI can cause pain during sex.
Allergies
Some women are allergic to latex, lube, spermicide, and other things that come into contact with the vaginal opening.
Irritation
This can be caused by vaginal deodorants, douching, or scented tampons.
Tightness
If your vagina is too tight, it can cause pain during sex. This can be caused by childbirth, scarring from surgery, or a condition called vaginismus.
Symptoms of vaginal pain
The most common symptom of vaginal pain is a burning sensation during urination. Other symptoms include:
Pelvic pain
Pain during intercourse
Pain in the lower abdomen
Vaginal bleeding or discharge
Spotting between periods
Fatigue
Irritability
Changes in bowel habits
Changes in urination habits
Throbbing, raw pain
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see your healthcare provider for an evaluation.
How to treat vaginal pain
There are many different potential causes of vaginal pain, so it is important to see a healthcare provider to get an accurate diagnosis. Once the cause of the chronic pain is determined, appropriate treatment can be initiated.
Treatment for vaginal pain may include over-the-counter or prescription medications, home remedies, or surgery. In addition, some women may find that specific lifestyle changes can help to reduce their recurring vaginal pain.
If you are experiencing vaginal pain, there are a few things that you can do at home to help alleviate your symptoms. First, drink plenty of fluids and avoid constipation by eating a high-fiber diet. You can also put a warm compress on your vulva or take a warm bath to help reduce pain and inflammation.
Avoid using douches, scented sprays, or other products that can irritate the vagina.
Vaginal pain medication
If at-home treatments are not providing relief, your healthcare provider may prescribe medication to help treat your chronic vaginal pain. In addition, antibiotics may be prescribed if a bacterial infection is determined to cause your pain.
If you are experiencing chronic pain due to menopause, your provider may prescribe hormone therapy. Surgery may also be necessary to remove a growth or correct a structural problem in the vagina.
How to prevent vaginal pain
Be sure to practice good hygiene and avoid using products that can irritate the vagina. Wearing loose-fitting clothing and cotton panties can also help to reduce irritation. If you are prone to yeast infections, be sure to take measures to avoid them by keeping the area clean and dry.
Avoiding douching and using condoms during sexual intercourse can also help to prevent chronic vaginal pain. If you are experiencing pain due to menopause, talk to your healthcare provider about ways to manage your symptoms.
When to see a doctor for vaginal pain
If at-home treatments and over-the-counter medications are not providing relief, it is essential to see a healthcare provider. You should also see a doctor if you are experiencing vaginal pain for the first time, if you are pregnant and experiencing vaginal pain, or if you have any other concerns. One crucial factor to consider bringing up with your doctor is if you have a previous history of sexual abuse. This fact alone can further assist your doctor when making a proper diagnosis.
Related conditions to vaginal pain
There are many different conditions that can cause vaginal pain. Some of the most common include:
Bacterial vaginosis
Yeast infection
Trichomoniasis
Vulvodynia
Endometriosis
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
Psychological trauma
Vaginal pain treatment FAQs
What causes vaginal pain?
There are many potential causes of recurring vaginal pain, so it is vital to see a healthcare provider to get an accurate diagnosis. Possible causes of vaginal pain include yeast infections, STIs, bacterial vaginosis, a urinary tract infection, or other conditions. If you are experiencing severe pain, see a doctor to diagnose you and determine the underlying cause.
How do you relieve vaginal pain?
Treatment for vaginal pain may include over-the-counter or prescription medications, home remedies, or surgery. Some women may find that certain lifestyle changes, such as avoiding irritants, can help relieve pain.
How to relieve vaginal pain after sex?
If you are experiencing vaginal pain after sexual intercourse, see a doctor to determine the cause of your pain and prescribe the appropriate treatment plan.
How long does vaginal pain last?
The duration of vaginal pain depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, the pain may go away independently, while other causes may require treatment. See a doctor to determine the underlying cause of your pain and develop a treatment plan.
3 simple steps to get treated for vaginal pain today
Step 1
Book a vaginal pain treatment appointment.
Book a same-day appointment from anywhere.
Step 2
Talk to your doctor about vaginal pain symptoms.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
Pick up medication to treat vaginal pain.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Vaginal pain treatment pricing details
How pricing works
To request treatment for vaginal pain and get a new or refill on your prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
Copay
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
- We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
$129
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Vaginal pain treatment resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Mayo Clinic: "Vulvodynia - Symptoms and Causes." Mayo Clinic. Accessed on December 14, 2023, at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vulvodynia/symptoms-causes/syc-20353423.
Mount Sinai: "Vulvodynia." Mount Sinai Health System. Accessed on December 14, 2023, at https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/diseases-conditions/vulvodynia.
Cleveland Clinic: "Vulvodynia." Cleveland Clinic. Accessed on December 14, 2023, at https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17878-vulvodynia.
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.