A burning sensation or stinging feeling in the intimate areas can be a result of a superficial cut or a tear on the vaginal tissues. The injury is usually external, occurring mostly in the vagina or the vulva.
While most vaginal cuts are harmless and heal over time, it is important to understand their causes and take the necessary measures to speed up the healing process. Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Sujata Mukherjee, Consultant-Gynaecology, Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, Kolkata, shed light on the same.
Also Read: The Fear Of Vaginal Penetration Is Real: Expert Explains The Condition Called Vaginismus
Common Causes Of Vaginal Cuts
Developing vaginal cuts is quite usual for women, said Dr Mukherjee. Some are noticeable, whereas others only cause a stinging sensation. These may be accompanied by symptoms, such as:
- Burning while urinating or after contact with water
- Difficulty and discomfort when inserting a tampon or during sexual intercourse
- Slight bleeding or spotting in severe cases
- Itchiness
- Common causes include:
- Sexual intercourse
- Forceful/harsh intercourse
- Removal of the pubic hair
According to Dr Mukherjee, vaginal deliveries can also cause severe tears and cuts inside the vagina. In fact, reports suggest that 79% of pregnant women who have a natural delivery can experience cuts and lacerations. In certain cases, a cut may deliberately be made through the area between your vaginal opening and your anus to facilitate childbirth. This procedure is called an episiotomy. Both of these cases will require stitching, said the doctor, suggesting that the stitches may take around 1-2 weeks to heal or dissolve.
Additionally, people may develop cuts due to hormonal imbalances, vaginal dryness, and chronic skin conditions like eczema, rashes, and lichen planus.
Research also suggests that menopausal women, who are likely to experience vaginal dryness due to low oestrogen levels, are more at risk of developing cuts and abrasions during sexual intercourse.
Also Read: Signs and Symptoms of Menopause in Women
Do Vaginal Cuts Heal On Their Own?
According to Medical News Today, superficial or minor vaginal cuts heal within a few days, even without treatment. All they require is care. Some of the self-care tips include:
- Washing the area with warm water
- Maintaining the pH balance of the vagina by avoiding perfumed or harsh soaps
- Wearing loose, cotton undergarments
- Keeping the area clean and dry
- Avoiding sexual intercourse or any type of foreplay
- Avoid touching the affected area
- Bathing regularly
- Avoiding the use of tampons, pads, or period underwear
The patient can also do a sitz bath, which is a shallow bath procedure that requires a person to sit in a tub of warm water with 2-3 drops of antiseptic liquid. This procedure is said to relieve pain and discomfort.
Additionally, one may also apply ointment for further and faster healing.
Conclusion
In general, the skin is a very sensitive area that is prone to various infections and injuries. A vaginal cut is therefore very common in women and can occur due to various reasons ranging from sexual intercourse, certain skin conditions, and childbirth. The key to recovery is to keep the area clean and dry by using mild soap and water, wearing loose clothing, and avoiding any form of sexual activity that may harm the affected area. Visit a healthcare professional to determine the cause of your discomfort so that you can make sure it does not happen again.
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