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Pain at the vaginal opening

Pain at the vaginal opening can be caused by irritation, infection, skin disease, tense pelvic floor muscles, hormonal dryness or long-term pain sensitivity. Careful examination with consent helps choose appropriate treatment.

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Pain at the vaginal opening can be caused by irritation, infection, skin disease, tense pelvic floor muscles, hormonal dryness or long-term pain sensitivity. Careful examination with consent helps choose appropriate treatment.

  • Burning, stabbing, chafing or raw pain at the vaginal opening.
  • Pain with touch, a tampon, a finger, examination or penetration.
  • Stop a sexual activity if it hurts; consent can always be withdrawn.
  • Gently wash the outside with lukewarm water or a suitable unperfumed product, and avoid vaginal douching.
  • Make an appointment if pain recurs, lasts more than a few weeks or limits sex, sitting, urination or sport.
  • For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.

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