Vaginal discomfort during menstruation is an unfortunate reality for many people. It’s frustrating, sometimes alarming, and almost always inconvenient. The Menstrual cycle comes with its fair share of challenges—cramps, mood changes, and the constant worry about leaks. For many, vaginal discomfort is another frustrating symptom that adds to the experience.
The good news? You’re not alone, and there are reasons for what’s happening. Understanding what’s causing your vaginal pain can help you manage it better and even prevent some of that discomfort in the future.
Why Do I Feel Pain in My Vagina?
Vaginal pain during your period isn’t always just about your vagina. The body is an interconnected system, and pain in one area can sometimes be felt somewhere else entirely. That means the aching, throbbing, or sharp pain you feel in your vaginal area might be coming from your uterus, pelvic floor muscles, or even referred pain from menstrual cramps.
But pain isn’t something you should ignore. While some discomfort can be normal, persistent or severe vaginal pain during menstruation could point to an underlying issue. Let’s break it down.
Is It Normal for My Privates to Hurt on My Period?
Mild discomfort? Probably normal. Excruciating pain? Not so much.
Your menstrual cycle triggers a variety of changes in your body, from fluctuating hormones to increased blood flow to your pelvic area.1 Some of these changes can cause temporary vaginal soreness or discomfort. But if the pain is severe, ongoing, or interfering with your daily life, it could be a sign of something deeper—like endometriosis, vulvodynia, or a vaginal infection.
Let’s dive into the most common reasons your vagina might be hurting during your period.
7 Common Causes of Vaginal Pain During Menstruation
1. Menstrual Cramps and Referred Pain
Your uterus is hard at work during your period. It contracts to shed its lining, and those contractions can cause pain that radiates to other areas, including your lower back, thighs, and yes, your vagina.2 The pain isn’t always isolated to your abdomen—it can feel like a deep, internal ache that spreads throughout your pelvic area. In some cases, cramping can even begin before bleeding starts. If you’ve ever wondered, “Can you get cramps before your period,” you’re definitely not alone. Early hormonal shifts can trigger discomfort days before menstruation officially begins.
What’s happening? Your uterus contracts to expel menstrual blood, cutting off some oxygen supply in the process. This triggers pain signals that can extend beyond the uterus itself. As the uterus works overtime, surrounding muscles, including those in the vaginal area, may tense up in response, adding to the discomfort.3
What it feels like: A dull, aching pain or a throbbing sensation deep inside your vaginal area. Some people describe it as a heavy pressure, almost like their vagina is being weighed down from the inside.
2. Hormonal Fluctuations
Hormones play a huge role in how your vagina feels during your period. Estrogen levels fluctuate throughout your menstrual cycle, and when they dip too low, you might experience vaginal dryness, irritation, or sensitivity.4 These hormonal shifts can also affect blood flow to the pelvic area, sometimes leading to a feeling of fullness or congestion.
What’s happening? Lower estrogen levels can lead to decreased natural lubrication, making the vaginal area feel sore or uncomfortable.4 Additionally, hormonal changes may make the vaginal tissues thinner and more delicate, increasing sensitivity and irritation.5
What it feels like: A dry, irritated, or slightly burning sensation, especially during movement. Some people experience a raw, chafing feeling, particularly when using tampons or engaging in sexual activity.
3. Infections
If you notice an increase in vaginal pain, itching, or an unusual vaginal discharge during your period, an infection could be the culprit. Menstruation can sometimes exacerbate existing infections, making symptoms more noticeable. Blood changes the vaginal pH, which can create an environment where bacteria and yeast thrive.
Common culprits:
- Yeast infections – Overgrowth of Candida can lead to itching, burning, and pain, especially when inserting a tampon. It may also cause thick, white vaginal discharge.6
- Bacterial vaginosis (BV) – An imbalance in vaginal bacteria can cause irritation, a fishy odor, and increased discomfort.7 BV symptoms can sometimes mimic those of a yeast infection.
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) – Some STIs, like chlamydia or gonorrhea, can cause pelvic pain and vaginal discomfort, particularly during menstruation. If left untreated, they can lead to more severe complications like pelvic inflammatory disease.8
What it feels like: Burning, itching, or sharp pain, often with abnormal discharge. Some people also report a constant feeling of discomfort or tenderness in the vaginal area.
4. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
PID is an infection of the reproductive organs, often caused by untreated STIs.9 It can lead to chronic pelvic pain, and the inflammation can make period pain worse. In some cases, it can cause damage to the fallopian tubes, which may impact fertility.10
What’s happening? The infection causes inflammation in the reproductive organs, leading to heightened pain during menstruation. This inflammation can cause irritation in surrounding tissues, including the vaginal walls, making movement and even sitting uncomfortable.
What it feels like: A deep, persistent ache in the lower abdomen and vaginal area, sometimes with fever or unusual discharge. Some people also experience sharp, stabbing pains that worsen with movement or pressure.
5. Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing severe menstrual pain that can extend to the vagina.10 This tissue thickens, breaks down, and bleeds just like the uterine lining, but because it has nowhere to go, it causes inflammation and scarring.10
What’s happening? The misplaced tissue responds to hormonal changes, causing inflammation, scarring, and intense pain. This can lead to pain during menstruation, bowel movements, sexual intercourse, and even while urinating.
What it feels like: Sharp, stabbing pain during menstruation, sometimes spreading to the vaginal area, lower back, and thighs. Many people describe the pain as unbearable, often interfering with daily activities.
6. Vaginal Dryness
Vaginal dryness isn’t just a problem during menopause—it can also occur during your period due to hormonal fluctuations. When the vagina lacks adequate moisture, friction from tampons, pads, or even just daily movement can become incredibly uncomfortable.
What’s happening? Low estrogen levels can lead to decreased natural lubrication, making any friction—like tampon use or even walking—uncomfortable.11 Dehydration can also contribute to dryness, making it important to drink plenty of water during your period.
What it feels like: A dry, irritated, or burning sensation inside the vagina. Some people compare it to the feeling of chapped lips, with an added sensitivity that makes everything feel more intense.
7. Vulvodynia
Vulvodynia is chronic pain in the vulvar and vaginal area with no clear cause.12 It can be triggered by hormonal changes, infections, or other causes.13 This condition can be frustrating because the pain often comes and goes without warning.
What’s happening? The nerves around the vulva become hypersensitive, leading to persistent pain that can worsen during menstruation. Some research suggests that chronic inflammation or past infections may contribute to the condition.12
What it feels like: Burning, stinging, or raw pain around the vaginal opening, sometimes triggered by touch or pressure. For some, even wearing tight clothing can cause discomfort, making periods an especially painful time.
5 Effective Strategies for Relief
If you’re experiencing vaginal pain during your period, here are some tips on how to avoid period pain to find relief:
1. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Try NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen) to reduce inflammation and pain. Taking them at the first sign of discomfort can help prevent the pain from escalating.
2. Heat Therapy
Apply a heating pad or warm compress to your lower abdomen to relax muscles and ease cramps. Heat therapy can also improve blood circulation, which may help reduce overall pelvic pain. Using a disposable heating patch or period relief roll-on can help decrease period symptoms. Made with 4% camphor to relieve muscle tightness and backaches and 4% menthol to soothe sore muscles and muscle strains, Rael’s period relief roll-on is clinically proven to improve menstrual cycle-related cramps, back aches, pains, and muscle aches.
3. Maintain Vaginal Hygiene
Use mild, unscented products to cleanse your vaginal area and avoid irritants that can make discomfort worse. Avoid douching, as it can disrupt the natural balance of vaginal bacteria and lead to infections.
4. Stay Hydrated and Eat a Balanced Diet
Increase your intake of anti-inflammatory foods, such as leafy greens, berries, and omega-3-rich fish. Reducing processed foods and excessive sugar can also help minimize bloating and inflammation. If symptoms persist, try a hormone balance supplement to help regulate hormones during your cycle and minimize PMS symptoms. You can also explore other supplements for menstrual cramps that may support long-term relief and hormonal balance.
5. Consult a Healthcare Provider
If the pain is severe or persistent, schedule a pelvic exam to rule out underlying conditions like endometriosis, PID, or uterine fibroids. A doctor may also recommend hormonal treatments or other therapies to help manage symptoms.
Experience Comfort with Rael’s Products
When it comes to menstrual health, what you use on your body matters. Rael offers organic, gentle period relief products designed to support vaginal health and comfort during menstruation. From PMS supplements to soothing heat patches, Rael provides thoughtful solutions to make that time of the month a little less miserable.
By understanding the potential causes of vaginal pain during your period and implementing effective relief strategies, you can manage discomfort and maintain your well-being throughout your menstrual cycle. Your body is sending you signals—listen to them, and don’t be afraid to seek help if something doesn’t feel right.
Sources:
- Tan, S L, et al. “Blood Flow Changes in the Ovarian and Uterine Arteries during the Normal Menstrual Cycle.” American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, vol. 175, no. 3, Sept. 1996, pp. 625–631, https://doi.org/10.1053/ob.1996.v175.a73865.
- Johnson, Traci. “An Overview of Menstrual Pain.” WebMD, 9 Nov. 2024, www.webmd.com/women/menstrual-pain. Accessed on 25 Mar. 2025.
- Nall, Rachel. “What Causes Vaginal Cramps?” Medicalnewstoday.com, Medical News Today, 21 July 2023, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322584. Accessed on 25 Mar. 2025.
- Mayo Clinic Health System Staff. “Vaginal Dryness: Symptoms, Causes, Remedies.” Mayo Clinic Health System, 29 Nov. 2021, www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/vaginal-dryness-symptoms-causes-and-remedies. Accessed on 25 Mar. 2025.
- Mayo Clinic Staff. “Vaginal Atrophy - Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic, 17 Sept. 2021, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vaginal-atrophy/symptoms-causes/syc-20352288. Accessed on 25 Mar. 2025.
- Mayo Clinic Staff. “Yeast Infection (Vaginal) - Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic, 11 Jan. 2023, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20378999. Accessed on 25 Mar. 2025.
- Mayo Clinic Staff. “Bacterial Vaginosis - Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic, 10 June 2023, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bacterial-vaginosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20352279. Accessed on 25 Mar. 2025.
- Cleveland Clinic. “Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, 2 Mar. 2023, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9138-sexually-transmitted-diseases--infections-stds--stis. Accessed on 25 Mar. 2025.
- Mayo Clinic Staff. “Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) - Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic, 30 Apr. 2022, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pelvic-inflammatory-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20352594. Accessed on 25 Mar. 2025.
- Mayo Clinic Staff. “Endometriosis.” Mayo Clinic, 30 Aug. 2024, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354656. Accessed on 25 Mar. 2025.
- Cleveland Clinic. “Vaginal Dryness: Causes & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, 26 July 2022, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21027-vaginal-dryness. Accessed on 25 Mar. 2025.
- Mayo Clinic Staff. “Vulvodynia - Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic, 1 Sept. 2023, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vulvodynia/symptoms-causes/syc-20353423. Accessed on 25 Mar. 2025.