Vaginal irritation and discharge are common problems for many women. Follow this chart for help in understanding and self-treating many of these problems. Do you have a vaginal discharge that is normal in color, consistency, and smell, but has the amount increased?

When to see your doctor


Why is my vagina or my vulva swollen?
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Answering Questions
We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Periods, pregnancy, and intercourse can all cause swelling in the vaginal area, including the vaginal lips labia. Sometimes, swelling may be the result of another condition, disease, or disorder. Keep reading to learn more about some of the most common causes of vaginal swelling and what you can do to ease your symptoms. Chemicals in everyday products like laundry detergent and bubble bath can irritate the sensitive skin of the vagina, vulva, and labia. So can perfumed products and harsh toilet paper. Stop using a product you think might be affecting your vagina. If the irritation clears, you should avoid the product to avoid future swelling and discomfort. But if the swelling remains, you may need to talk with your doctor.
Health Chevron. Good on you for being proactive about seeking answers. On top of being uncomfortable, recurring problems and changes to your vagina and vulva are typically a sign that something is going on that needs your attention—or at least a little TLC. As a reminder, your vulva is the external parts of your genitalia, like your mons pubis, labia minora and majora, and clitoris. Below, find the most common culprits behind a swollen vagina or vulva, what you can do about it, and when to see a doctor. This is known broadly as vaginitis , a large bucket of various causes of inflammation or infection of the vagina and vulva, according to Cleveland Clinic. Technically, vulvovaginitis is the proper term when referring to both the vagina and vulva, but vaginitis is commonly used as an umbrella term, just like people say vagina when they really mean vulva. There are several types of vaginitis with various causes, including a few other things on this list.