Why Do I Feel Uncomfortable Down There?

Experiencing discomfort in the vaginal or vulvar area can be distressing, and understanding the underlying causes can help in addressing the issue effectively. The frustrating thing about vulvar and vaginal pain or discomfort is that it can have a million and one causes, from vaginal infections to hormone deficiencies, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It’s easy to spiral and immediately assume the worst, but luckily most causes of genital discomfort are easily treatable. 

Keep reading to learn about the most common reasons why you might feel uncomfortable down there, symptoms to look out for, and when to see your healthcare provider.

Why do I feel uncomfortable down there?

Yeast infections

Yeast infections are a type of fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida. They’re incredibly common, up to 75% of women will have a vaginal yeast infection at least once in their life. 

Symptoms of a yeast infection include: 

• Itching and discomfort in and around the vagina
• Redness and swelling of the vulva 
• Thick, white vaginal discharge that looks like cottage cheese
• A burning sensation when you pee
• Painful sex.

Yeast infections are one of the most common causes of vaginal discomfort, but luckily they’re pretty straightforward to get rid of. You can treat a yeast infection with over-the-counter or prescription antifungal treatments, such as miconazole or clotrimazole creams or suppositories. For persistent infections, a healthcare provider may prescribe oral antifungals like fluconazole. 

Bacterial vaginosis 

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) results from an imbalance in the normal bacterial flora of the vagina, leading to an overgrowth of bacteria like Gardnerella and Prevotella. Symptoms of bacterial vaginosis include:

• A strong fish-like odor, often more noticeable after sex
• Thin, gray vaginal discharge
• In rare cases, itching or irritation.

Discomfort isn’t always a symptom of bacterial vaginosis, but it can happen. BV is typically treated with antibiotics such as metronidazole (oral or vaginal gel) or clindamycin (cream or oral). It has a nasty habit of coming back, so reduce the risk of recurrent bacterial vaginosis, avoid using douches, and use condoms during sex.

Vulvar contact dermatitis

Vulvar dermatitis is an inflammatory condition of the vulva, which can cause: 

• Redness or rash
• Severe itching and burning
• Cracked, scaly, dry skin, blisters, and bumps
• Swelling or tenderness of the vulva.

Common triggers include allergens (like fragrances and latex) and irritants (soaps, detergents).

Identifying and avoiding potential irritants is key. Topical treatments may include corticosteroid creams to reduce inflammation and antihistamines to manage itching. Keeping the vulvar area clean with mild, unscented products and wearing loose, breathable clothing can also help.

Sexually transmitted infection

Sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, and genital herpes can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including: 

• Abnormal discharge
• Discomfort and irritation
• A burning sensation when you pee or have sex
• Pelvic pain.

In most cases though, STIs are asymptomatic. Treatment depends on the specific infection. Bacterial STIs can be treated with antibiotics, while viral STIs like genital herpes can be managed with antiviral medications. Regular STI tests and practicing safe sex are crucial for prevention and management.

Vaginal dryness

Vaginal dryness can lead to irritation and discomfort. It’s often associated with decreased estrogen levels, particularly during menopause or after childbirth. Estrogen plays an important part in keeping the vaginal tissue thick, lubricated, and elastic. When estrogen is low, the vaginal mucosa becomes thinner and drier, causing itching, burning, and discomfort during everyday activities (like sitting down or sex). 

Hormone therapy or localized estrogen treatments, such as creams, rings, or tablets, can alleviate symptoms. Over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers and lubricants can also provide relief. 

Vulvodynia

Vulvodynia is characterized by chronic vulvar pain without a clear cause, which may be described as a stinging, throbbing, or burning sensation. It can affect any part of the vulva (including the vaginal opening) and often interferes with daily activities and sex.

Management strategies may include topical anesthetics or pain relief medications, pelvic floor physical therapy, and counseling for coping with chronic pain. Avoiding known irritants and using mild, unscented products can also help.

Urinary tract infection

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a type of bacterial infection of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Common symptoms of a UTI include:

• A burning sensation or pain when you pee
• A frequent urge to pee (even if little or no urine is produced)
• Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine
• Pelvic pain or discomfort.

UTIs can be treated with antibiotics prescribed by your healthcare provider. 

Pelvic inflammatory disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the female reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. It typically happens when bacteria travel from the vagina or cervix to the upper reproductive tract. PID can cause significant discomfort because the infection leads to inflammation and scarring of the tissues, resulting in pain and tenderness in the pelvic area.

Symptoms of PID vary, but they often include:

• Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
• Abnormal vaginal discharge with an unusual odor
• Painful sex.

Other symptoms might include irregular menstrual bleeding, fever, and fatigue. Some women may experience only mild symptoms or none at all, which can delay diagnosis and increase the risk of complications.

If left untreated, PID can lead to serious health issues such as chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and ectopic pregnancy (where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus). Treatment usually involves a course of antibiotics to eliminate the infection. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term complications. Regular STI screenings and practicing safe sex can help reduce the risk of developing PID.

When to see a healthcare provider

You should see your healthcare provider if you're experiencing pain of any kind down there, particularly if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, like unusual vaginal discharge or abnormal bleeding. They can perform diagnostic tests, such as swabs, urine tests, or blood tests, to figure out what's causing pain and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. You should also see a healthcare provider if symptoms persist even after finishing your treatment.

FAQ

How do I get rid of uncomfortable feeling down there?

Treatment depends on what’s causing discomfort. Bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics, while a yeast infection clears up with over-the-counter or prescription antifungals. Vulvar dermatitis and dryness can be treated with topical creams.

Is it normal to feel uncomfortable down there?

While vulvar and vaginal pain or discomfort may be common, it’s never “normal”. Feeling uncomfortable down there is a sign of a problem that needs to be addressed. The good news is that most causes of vulvar and vaginal pain are easily treatable, and symptoms should stop within a few days of beginning treatment. 

How do you tell if something is wrong down there?

To know if something is wrong "down there," pay attention to any changes, such as unusual discharge (color, consistency, or odor), itching, a burning sensation, irritation, pain when you pee or have sex or any unexplained bleeding. These symptoms could signal issues like a yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, or more serious conditions that need medical attention.