How to Stop Feeling Sore in Your Vagina During Your Period

Co-authored by Rebecca Levy-Gantt, MPT, DO

Last Updated: April 1, 2021 References Approved

Many women experience vaginal soreness during their period. This pain commonly results from menstrual cramps, which are contractions in the uterus that are often present throughout the period.^{[1]
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Research source} Vaginal soreness may also be a sign that you need to keep better feminine hygiene during this time of the month. Try one or more methods to relieve vaginal soreness during your period.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Maintaining Proper Hygiene

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Shower regularly. Do not change your normal showering routine during your period.^{[2]
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Research source} If you feel vaginal soreness, you may even want to shower more than once a day, using warm or hot, but not boiling, water to clean your vagina. Taking warm baths may also help relieve pain and keep your vagina clean.
- Do not use harsh soaps or rough loofahs while showering.
- Do not douche your vagina during this time.
2
Change your pad or tampon often. Check your pad or tampon every two hours, and change it at least every 4 hours.^{[3]
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Expert Source

Rebecca Levy-Gantt, MPT, DO
Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist
Expert Interview. 3 April 2020.} Keeping your pubic area dry during your period may help relieve any topical soreness.

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3
Use soft, soothing wipes instead of toilet paper. Since toilet paper can be rough and irritating to skin, buy some simple feminine wipes to use during your period. These will soothe your skin and provide a cooling relief.
- Feminine wipes can be found at any discount department or grocery store.
- Discontinue use if the wipes irritate your vagina further.
- Do not insert the wipes into your vagina.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Using Medication

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Buy a pain reliever suitable for treating menstrual cramps. This a very common way women treat vaginal soreness during their period. Aspirin, Tylenol, Motrin, or Aleve are all appropriate pain relievers that relieve menstrual cramps.^{[4]
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Expert Source

Rebecca Levy-Gantt, MPT, DO
Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist
Expert Interview. 3 April 2020.}
- Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure the medication does not interfere with another medication you are taking.
- Only use medicines that are safe for you; for example, avoid Ibuprofen if you have high blood pressure and paracetamol if you have asthma.^{[5]
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  Research source}
- Speak with a doctor or pharmacist to make sure an over-the-counter pain reliever is safe for you to use.
2
Take the medication as instructed. Begin taking the pain relievers as soon as bleeding and cramping begins.^{[6]
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Research source} This will keep the vaginal soreness at bay. However, be careful not to take too many pills; the back of every over-the-counter medicine will say the maximum dose that can be taken in 24 hours.
- Carefully read the instructions before taking any medication.
- Keep the bottle of pills in your purse or pocket when going out, so you do not end up stranded and in pain.
- Never take more than the recommended number of pills.
3
See a doctor if the pain worsens or does not subside. Sometimes, women experience “secondary dysmenorrhea” during their period, which is severe cramps caused by a disease or other problems in the uterus or pelvic organs.^{[7]
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Research source} This severe pain usually cannot be maintained with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- You will needs to consult a professional to relieve intense or chronic vaginal soreness.
- Intense soreness can be a sign of infection, so call a doctor if the pain is unbearable.
- Your doctor may prescribe stronger pain killers, birth control, or even anti-depressants to help relieve vaginal pain.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Caring for Your Body

1
Avoid activities that worsen soreness. This can include any number of activities, depending on your lifestyle. Sexual intercourse can be risky because it will increase the amount of friction imposed on an already sore vagina, so only have sex if you feel comfortable. Some other common irritating activities to avoid are:
- Biking.
- Sitting on a chair for extended periods of time (lie down instead).
- Anything that causes unnecessary rubbing on your vagina, like walking in very tight jeans or driving for extended periods.
2
Apply a heating pad or hot water bottle to your abdomen and inner thighs. Heating pads or hot water bottles can be purchased online or at your local store. Heating pads need to be plugged in and controlled with an attached remote, and hot water bottles can be filled up with hot or warm water from your sink. Lay the heating pad or bottle on the sorest parts of your body.
- Never fall asleep with a heating pad on you.
- Buy a sturdy hot water bottle so it will not leak.
- Use as often as needed.
3
Rest when you feel tired. Relax in bed whenever possible, particularly when the soreness is at its worst. If you have work or school you cannot miss, still try to avoid strenuous activities and stress.
4
Avoid foods that irritate your stomach. Eating light meals throughout the day that consist of whole grains, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates, while avoiding alcohol, salt, caffeine, and a lot of sugar will help you avoid intestinal issues during your period.^{[8]
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Research source} As a result, your vagina will suffer from less irritation.
5
Massage your lower back or abdomen. Using your fingertips, press down lightly in circles around your lower belly button area. Have a friend or significant other rub your lower back if is difficult to reach, or see a professional masseuse.

Warnings

These suggestions are not a substitute for professional medical advice.

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If you wear tampons and develop a fever, diarrhea, dizziness, or a rash, get medical help immediately, as these are signs of Toxic Shock Syndrome.^{[10]
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Research source}

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