6 Causes Of Sharp Vaginal Pain During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is usually referred to as a lovely experience, but honestly, it also has its own share of discomforts. And, one of the discomforts that many women feel is sudden, sharp pain in the vagina. Although frightening, for most women, it is simply a natural part of pregnancy due to the numerous changes that their bodies are undergoing. Hence, knowing what the possible causes are will enable expectant mothers to recognise when it's something they can handle at home and when it would be a good time to call your physician.

Causes of Sharp Vaginal Pain During Pregnancy

In an exclusive interaction with the editorial team of Onlymyhealth, our expert, Dr Suma Varsha, IVF Specialist, Ferty9 Fertility Center - Vijayawada, highlighted that there can be several causes of vaginal pain during pregnancy. These may include:

1. Round Ligament Pain

As the uterus grows, the round ligaments that hold it in place stretch and may cause sudden stabbing pains in the vaginal and pelvic region. This is most prevalent during the second trimester.

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2. Increased Blood Flow

Pregnancy causes blood flow to increase in the pelvic area. This at times results in throbbing or stabbing pains in the vagina, particularly after standing for a long time.

3. Pressure of the Baby

As the fetus develops, its movements and weight exert pressure on your vagina and pelvic floor, at times causing stabbing or shooting pains. Such is frequently referred to as lightning crotch.

4. Hormonal Changes

The relaxin hormone loosens your pelvic joints and tissues in anticipation of delivery. This loosening can result in sudden, stabbing pains in the groin or vaginal area.

5. Infections

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), yeast infections, or bacterial vaginosis occasionally result in sharp vaginal pain accompanied by such symptoms as burning, itching, or abnormal discharge.

6. Nerve Compression

As your baby changes position, they might press against nerves near your pelvis, causing sharp or shooting pain in the vaginal area.

When to Call Your Doctor

Although sharp vaginal pain now and then is normal, Dr Varsha recommended that you should call your healthcare provider if you have:

• Ongoing or bad pain
• Pain with heavy bleeding or spotting
• Fever, chills, or foul-smelling discharge
• Having trouble peeing or burning when you pee
• Pain during contractions before 37 weeks (potential preterm labour)

Managing Vaginal Pain During Pregnancy

Here are some expert-approved ways to manage sharp vaginal pain during pregnancy:

• Rest and shift positions when the pain hits.
• Wear a maternity support belt to decrease pelvic pressure.
• Warm compresses (not hot) can ease sore muscles.
• Drink plenty of fluids to prevent UTIs and cramping.
• Do gentle exercises such as prenatal yoga or pelvic tilts to ease pressure.

Bottomline

Sudden vaginal pain during pregnancy is frightening, but in the majority of situations, it's just your body's natural reaction to the amazing transformations it's experiencing. Always, though, listen to your instincts, if the pain is odd, intense, or accompanied by other serious symptoms, call your doctor immediately.