Why Doesyour Vagina Get Swollen During Menstrual Cycle?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Take a look at where you are in your cycle when you notice the swelling (a period tracking app can help with this).

A swollen vulva may be the result of a cyst

. A Bartholin's cyst occurs when one of the Bartholin's glands — which are located on either side of the vagina — become obstructed.

Why is my private area hurting on my period?

Menstruation. Vaginal cramps are a common symptom of menstruation.

They occur as the uterus contracts to shed the uterine lining

. Although cramps higher up in the pelvis are more common, it is not unusual to feel cramping in the vagina as well.

Why does my pelvic area swell during period?

During the period,

the broken-down lining of the uterus flows down through the cervix and out of the vagina

. When you have a period, the uterus swells and expands and can become almost double the size and weight (pictured below).

What does vulvar inflammation look like?


Redness and swelling on the labia and other parts of the vulva

. Intense itching. Clear, fluid-filled blisters. Sore, scaly, thick, or white patches on the vulva.

Why is it throbbing down there?

This happens because there is

increased blood flow to the area and the muscles of the vaginal wall may have some minor contractions

. The vagina also has arteries that supply blood to the area, and it is possible in some women to feel their pulse in certain spots.

Does the uterus get bigger during period?

The uterus is normally the size of a pear, explains ob-gyn Sherry Ross, M.D., author of She-ology.

It may get about 10 to 15 percent bigger during your period, but it certainly doesn't double in size.

Why does my uterus feel like it falling out during my period?

Doctors refer to this downward movement of the uterus as

uterine prolapse

. Uterine prolapse occurs when pelvic floor muscles and ligaments stretch and weaken and no longer provide enough support for the uterus. As a result, the uterus slips down into or protrudes out of the vagina.

Do hips get wider during period?

They seem really big at first, but you will grow into them. Expect to gain weight. This is normal and needed to have healthy menstrual cycles.

You will notice that you get curvier, with bigger hips and breasts than when you were a little girl.

What causes vaginal inflammation?

Overview. Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that can result in discharge, itching and pain. The cause is usually

a change in the balance of vaginal bacteria or an infection

. Reduced estrogen levels after menopause and some skin disorders also can cause vaginitis.

Can you see eggs in period blood?

The eggs are super tiny —

too small to see with the naked eye

. During your menstrual cycle, hormones make the eggs in your ovaries mature — when an egg is mature, that means it's ready to be fertilized by a sperm cell.

When does bloating go away during period?

Bloating is a common early symptom of menstruation that many women experience. It may feel like you've gained weight or like your abdomen or other parts of your body are tight or even swollen. Bloating generally occurs well before your period starts and will go away

once you've been menstruating for a few days

.

Why does it smell when on period?

The strong smell is

likely due to the blood and tissues exiting the vagina along with bacteria

. It's normal for the vagina to have bacteria, though the amount can fluctuate. The resulting “rotten” smell from bacteria mixed with shouldn't be strong enough for others to detect.

How much blood do you lose on your period?

The average woman loses

60 milliliters — about 2 ounces — of blood during her period

. Women with heavier periods (menorrhagia) typically lose 80 milliliters (2.7 ounces) of blood. Although this may seem like a lot, the human body holds more than 1 gallon of blood.

Can your cervix fall out?

Uterine prolapse is mild when the cervix drops into the lower part of the vagina.

Uterine prolapse is moderate when the cervix drops out of the vaginal opening

.

Can you pass fibroids during a period?


While rare, you can pass fibroid tissue during your period

. But this typically happens if you've been treated for fibroids with UFE. Otherwise, it's unlikely that you will naturally pass a fibroid during your period.

Why do my thighs look bigger on my period?


Progesterone activates the hormone aldosterone, which causes the kidneys to retain water and salt

. Water retention can lead to bloating and swelling, particularly in the abdomen, arms, and legs. This can give the appearance of weight gain.

How can you tell if a girl is having her period?

Most of the time, a girl gets her period about 2 years after her breasts start to develop. Another sign is

vaginal discharge fluid (sort of like mucus) that a girl might see or feel on her underwear

. This discharge usually begins about 6 months to a year before a girl gets her first period.

What do periods do to your body?

Menstruation is a woman's monthly bleeding, often called your “period.” When you menstruate,

your body discards the monthly buildup of the lining of your uterus (womb)

. Menstrual blood and tissue flow from your uterus through the small opening in your cervix and pass out of your body through your vagina.

Rebecca Patel
Author
Rebecca Patel
Rebecca is a beauty and style expert with over 10 years of experience in the industry. She is a licensed esthetician and has worked with top brands in the beauty industry. Rebecca is passionate about helping people feel confident and beautiful in their own skin, and she uses her expertise to create informative and helpful content that educates readers on the latest trends and techniques in the beauty world.