Pregnancy brings many bodily changes, and vaginal swelling, also known as vulvar edema, is one such change. This condition refers to the puffiness or enlargement of the external female genitalia, including the labia. Vulvar edema is a common occurrence during pregnancy, often a normal physiological adjustment to the bodily changes.
Common Physiological Explanations
Vaginal swelling during pregnancy primarily stems from the body’s natural adaptations. Throughout pregnancy, blood volume increases by up to 50%. This increased fluid volume leads to greater fluid accumulation in various tissues, including the pelvic area, due to gravity and enhanced vascularity.
Pregnancy hormones, such as progesterone, also cause blood vessel walls to relax. This relaxation contributes to fluid retention and slows the return of blood from the lower extremities and pelvic region to the heart. As the uterus grows, it presses on major blood vessels, like the inferior vena cava. This pressure impedes blood flow from the lower body, leading to pooling and swelling in the vulva and legs.
Other Factors Contributing to Swelling
Beyond physiological changes of pregnancy, other factors can cause or worsen vaginal swelling. Vulvar varicose veins are common, developing due to increased pressure and blood flow in the pelvic region, similar to leg varicose veins. These veins appear as bluish, twisted vessels on the vulva and can cause sensations of fullness, pressure, or discomfort. They often become more noticeable as pregnancy progresses and usually resolve after childbirth.
Infections can lead to inflammation and swelling in the vaginal area. Yeast infections, caused by an overgrowth of fungi, are common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. These infections often present with other symptoms such as itching, burning, and a thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge. Bacterial vaginosis (BV), an imbalance of vaginal bacteria, can also cause swelling along with an off-white or gray discharge and a fishy odor.
Generalized swelling throughout the body can signal preeclampsia, a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine, usually after 20 weeks. Preeclampsia-related swelling is often sudden and severe, affecting the hands, face, and feet, and may be accompanied by headaches or vision changes. Allergic reactions or irritation from products like certain soaps, detergents, tight clothing, or hygiene products can trigger inflammation and swelling.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While some vaginal swelling is common during pregnancy, certain signs warrant prompt medical attention:
Severe pain or discomfort, especially if it appears suddenly or worsens rapidly.
Swelling accompanied by unusual discharge, a foul odor, severe itching, or burning sensations, suggesting infection.
Signs of a broader infection, such as fever, chills, redness, or warmth in the swollen area.
Generalized swelling affecting the hands, face, or feet, particularly if sudden or accompanied by severe headaches, vision changes, or rapid weight gain, which may signal preeclampsia.
Any vaginal bleeding alongside swelling.
Finding Relief
For discomfort related to normal vaginal swelling, several measures offer relief:
Elevating the hips and feet, such as with pillows when lying down, helps improve circulation and reduce fluid pooling.
Applying cool compresses to the vulvar area soothes discomfort and helps reduce swelling.
Wearing loose-fitting clothing and breathable cotton underwear minimizes irritation and promotes airflow.
Avoiding prolonged periods of standing or sitting prevents blood from pooling in the lower body and pelvic region.
Staying well-hydrated, despite swelling, paradoxically helps the body manage fluid balance.
Gentle pelvic floor exercises, like Kegels, when comfortable and doctor-advised, can improve circulation in the pelvic area.
Discussing maternity support garments or specialized compression garments with a healthcare provider can offer further comfort.