What kind of labia should pregnant women have? Labia during pregnancy

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something is pulling...

Hello! I have this question: I read that during pregnancy the genitals somehow change, I also experienced changes, like swelling at the end of the labia, on the right and left, like a hump - is this normal? It can even be felt with your fingers - this has never happened before I didn’t) and I also have (not always) more often in the morning, when I urinate for the first time, some kind of tugging sensation, as if some kind of weight is tied to the labia? What could this be? and there is discharge, but there is no itching, nothing, and most often it’s just like water. This could be...

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Planning pregnancy and varicose veins

Hello! Please tell me I have two children, during the first pregnancy there were no varicose veins, during the second varicose veins appeared in the lower extremities, pelvis and on the labia, despite the fact that I wore compression tights for pregnant women throughout the entire pregnancy and gave birth in stockings. During menstruation my legs hurt. The phlebologist is seeing me and taking medications. Varicose veins progress. My husband would really like a third child, but not to the detriment of my health. The housing complex didn’t give me an answer, they told me to decide for myself whether I want to give birth anymore or...

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Our visits to doctors (endocrinologist and gynecologist)

On Monday we went to the endocrinologist because my daughter’s tongue is too large, so it almost always sticks out. The little one was examined, sent to donate blood from a vein for hormones to rule out problems with the thyroid gland, and just in case for sugar, because during pregnancy I was diagnosed with GDM. Now we are waiting for the results. Girls, tell me, whose children had an enlarged tongue? Later, as the child grew, did everything return to normal? But our adventures did not end there. During an external examination, the endocrinologist saw synechiae on the genitals...

It is unlikely that there will be many girls who regularly examine the color of their labia, but it is quite possible to notice such a change. Moreover: some couples notice this sign very first, without even suspecting that pregnancy could occur. Overall, this is definitely worth talking about.

Every healthy, sexually mature woman regularly matures an egg, ready to potentially become the foremother of a future child. This happens at different times for everyone, but most often around the middle of the menstrual cycle every or almost every month. After the release of the egg from the mature follicle, that is, after ovulation, the level of the hormone progesterone, which has risen to this point, remains high, creating favorable conditions for the onset and maintenance of pregnancy.

This will continue throughout the entire first trimester of pregnancy, and against the background of such hormonal changes, a pregnant woman may feel and observe a wide variety of signs of pregnancy, many of which sometimes seem unexpected or strange. Such symptoms include changes in the labia in the earliest stages.

In particular, both the labia minora and labia majora in a pregnant woman can increase in size and change color from the first days. This occurs due to increased blood circulation in the pelvic organs, which is necessary to fully provide the fetus with oxygen and nutrients that come with the blood.

For this reason, the labia of a pregnant woman may become plump, increase in size, and swell. Such changes are noticeable already from the first weeks, but also often appear only in the second or third trimesters. As the pregnancy period increases, the muscle tissues in the body of the expectant mother become more elastic and elastic, and among them are the labia.

If you are prone to varicose veins and thrombophlebitis in the labia area during pregnancy, compactions and nodes may appear - enlarged veins appear. This situation should not be ignored. Although this, as a rule, does not pose a great danger, there are still some risks, and therefore if you find inflamed areas in the labia area, you should definitely tell your doctor about it. The same applies to other formations on this organ: rashes, erosions, compactions.

In addition to size, the color of the labia often changes during pregnancy. And this should not scare you.

Purple, dark red labia during pregnancy

It should be noted that the color of the labia is different for all women, and for each of them it can change at different periods of life. This feature is highly individual and can vary in different colors and shades - from beige to black, from pale light to very dark or rich.

Most all women usually have pink labia. But no matter what color you have, their color and shade may change with the onset of pregnancy.

The previously pale or dull red labia after conception often become deeply red, purple, dark, as if inflamed. Do not worry: such changes, as we have already said, are the absolute norm, if in addition to them there are no “suspicious” vaginal discharge, itching, burning and other pathological symptoms.

Also, you should not be surprised if during pregnancy only one labia changes color, while the second remains unchanged: this also happens normally.

What could be the causes of darkening of the labia?

Changes in pigmentation in the labia area are a fairly common phenomenon that can be caused by a number of reasons. The external genitalia of all women are different - in size or color. Faced with the fact that the skin in the intimate area has darkened or acquired a “bluish” tint, many women are horrified, believing that this is a sign of a terrible gynecological disease. Is this really so and why does the skin of the labia darken in women?

Why does darkening of the labia occur?

It should immediately be noted that today the concept of a norm regarding the color of intimate areas in women does not exist. Light pink, red, dark and even black, the labia can come in a wide range of colors depending on factors such as race, age and hair color. It’s enough just to look at the nipples of a woman’s breast: if they have a rich, dark shade, then the skin of the perineum will be the same color. Residents of northern and southern countries also have significantly different skin pigmentation, but this difference is by no means considered a pathology. In what cases is darkening of the skin in the bikini area considered normal and should not cause concern?

It has been established that before the onset of sexual activity, the skin of a woman’s labia has a lighter color. This is due to changes in hormonal levels in the female body and is considered a completely natural phenomenon.

Changes in individual hormonal levels that occur as a result of age-related changes in the body can also have a direct impact on the shade of the external genitalia. Young girls tend to have much lighter perineal skin than women over 50.

In some cases, darkening of the skin in the area of the labia majora or minora may be caused by an allergic reaction to wearing tight synthetic underwear

Source

Blue labia during pregnancy

Blueness of the labia during pregnancy is a very common early sign. As a rule, around the same time, the areolas of the nipples on the chest also darken: sometimes they also turn blue, but more often they acquire a dark brown color. A vein network on the chest may also appear.

The labia of a pregnant woman can also become blue due to varicose veins, which is observed in approximately a third of women who become pregnant for the first time and in most of those who are repeatedly pregnant. Overweight pregnant women and women who are genetically predisposed to this are at risk.

Most often, this condition is temporary and harmless: shortly before childbirth or shortly after it, it goes away on its own. But sometimes the blue labia during pregnancy begin to hurt and bleed, which you need to tell your doctor about. He will prescribe you an anti-inflammatory ointment, and also recommend wearing special compression garments without seams, not sitting too long or standing in one place for a long time, moving more and lying only on your side.

Please also note that blue tissue discoloration in this area can occur even in non-pregnant women due to wearing tight synthetic underwear, aggressive sex, very early onset of sexual activity, and also with age.

Causes and treatment of cyanosis of the labia

Any unusual changes in the external genitalia seriously worry women. These include cyanosis of the mucous membrane of the labia. In most cases, a bluish color is not a pathology at all, but can be a sign of illness or injury. What are the causes of blue labia?

The concept of norm is often much broader than the concept of pathology. This also applies to the female external genitalia. The labia majora and minora can have different sizes and shapes; the skin and mucous membranes are pigmented differently, ranging in color from pale pink to dark brown, and all these variations are normal. Blue mucous membranes may seem unusual, but if such a phenomenon is not accompanied by painful symptoms, most likely it is caused by the physiology of a particular organism.

Causes of blue labia

Blueness of the mucous membranes of the external genitalia is associated with changes in blood circulation in this area. For example, it can be caused by subcutaneous hemorrhage as a result of a blow, which is observed in ordinary bruises. Another reason for blue discoloration is venous congestion and varicose veins that carry blood to the heart.

Most often, pregnant women complain about the blue color of the labia, which is not surprising. It’s enough just to imagine the changes that occur in the female body after conception. The fetus, located in the uterus, begins to actively grow and with all its weight puts pressure on the organs and vessels located in the pelvic cavity. Plus, there is a radical change in the hormonal background of the body.

With age, the color of the skin of the external genitalia changes.
This is due to maturation and aging of the body, accompanied by hormonal changes. Noticeable changes occur during puberty: sex Source

Black labia during pregnancy

Sometimes on forums you can find messages that women’s labia have become very dark, almost black, during pregnancy. This frightens and worries some of them, but there is no reason to worry.

The color of the labia during pregnancy can actually not only darken greatly, but actually turn gray or black. Moreover: for approximately 2-3% of fair-skinned women in the world, this color of the mucous membranes in the perineum is their normal norm.

If nothing else bothers you other than color, then there is no need to worry. If you are not yet sure about your pregnancy, then if the color of the labia changes, you should dot all the i’s: it’s time to buy a test.

Especially for - Ekaterina Vlasenko

The female body changes during pregnancy, often all hidden diseases make themselves felt, appearing immediately or over time.

The genital organs change during pregnancy due to the enlargement of the uterus, very often there is discomfort and pain in the genital organs. During this period, immunity decreases, and therefore swelling of the labia may be due to genital infections, such as bartholinitis or vulvovaginitis.

What to do if your labia are swollen?

If swelling of the labia minora is observed during pregnancy or the entire perineum is swollen, you should immediately consult a doctor without waiting for a scheduled appointment. Additional tests may be required, such as a smear, blood and urine tests. Based on the data obtained and examination, treatment will be prescribed if pathological processes occur in the form of infection. It may include general strengthening measures, the use of external agents; in extreme cases, antibiotics adapted for the body of pregnant women are used, with the exception of viral diseases. Their treatment is carried out according to a special regimen, including antiviral agents.

Some changes in a woman’s body after conception occur in the first days, others a little later. She doesn’t feel all of them, but she feels the fact that the external parts of the genital organs are swelling in the first week.

This is a normal reaction of the body to hormonal changes. The speed of local blood flow increases, the uterus enlarges, and pain appears in the labia.

During pregnancy, the immune status decreases, so swelling of the vulva can be caused not only by increased production of progesterone. Favorable conditions are created for the exacerbation of chronic diseases - sexually transmitted infections, which are dormant in normal times, and cause vulvovaginitis and bartholinitis. At a later date, varicose veins may begin.

What to do in such a condition and how can you relieve discomfort if the labia are swollen and painful during pregnancy?

Gardnerellosis

Another cause of swelling of the labia is damage by Gardnerella bacteria. Infection occurs through sexual contact with a carrier of the pathogen. As a result, the disease gardnerellosis is formed. It is accompanied by the following symptoms:

very severe itching of the labia appears;
dry mucous membranes;
swelling of the outer part of the vulva;
pain in the perineum, which intensifies during walking, sexual intercourse, and physical activity;
There is more discharge and it is greenish or gray in color.

What symptoms are accompanied by

If stagnation of fluid in intimate areas occurs for natural reasons, then unpleasant symptoms should not be observed. The labia may change shape, color and size.

Sometimes the presence of unobtrusive itching is considered normal.

Pathological processes are accompanied by the following symptoms:

Strong burning sensation;
Itching;
Excessively copious, unnatural discharge;
Foul odor from the vaginal cavity;
Pain in the lower abdomen, which can radiate to the lower back;
Itching and burning in the anus;
Redness of the genitals;
The appearance of small formations in the intimate area.

Such signs indicate that a dangerous disease is progressing in the body and you should immediately visit the gynecological office.

Genital herpes

If there is swelling of the labia, on which bubbles with liquid appear, which do not go away for up to 7 days, we can talk about genital herpes. A woman may feel weakness, itching on the genitals, and a rise in body temperature.

Sometimes when a disease appears, a person is not even aware of it. The main symptom by which the disease is determined is rashes. They can be found on the walls of the vagina, labia and cervix. This disease is especially dangerous for the unborn child; often, if herpes appears for the first time, doctors insist on abortion. Another reason for the development of the disease is a decrease in immunity, at which point herpes worsens. At an advanced stage, the development of the child is disrupted, deviations in physical development, defects in the central nervous system and brain occur, often causing fetal loss. The rashes and symptoms go away on their own after a couple of weeks, but you cannot remain idle, you must urgently contact a gynecologist at the first signs of herpes.

WHY ARE THE VADIUM LIPS DARK COLOR?

Dark labia is a phenomenon that many women, both young and old, experience. It can be congenital or acquired. The mechanism of the appearance of dark areas or spots has long been clarified - melanogenesis (production of melanin) increases in local areas of the body, or inflammatory post-traumatic hyperpigmentation develops.

Causes of darkening of the labia:

Hormonal changes;
Rubbing the skin with underwear;
Rubbing the inner thighs against each other;
Age-related changes;
Skin diseases;
Taking certain medications;
Consequences of injuries and inflammation;
Exposure to sunlight, solarium;
Laser irradiation for bikini hair removal.

Pigmentation and darkening of the genital organs, in particular the labia minora, can occur as a result of disruption of the adrenal glands, the genitourinary system, diseases of the liver and biliary tract, and during the long course of certain infectious diseases. The reason for their appearance may be a metabolic disorder or a lack of vitamin C. Increased deposition of pigment in the skin is also possible with problems with the pituitary gland and after prolonged use of certain medications.

Darkening of the labia may be a consequence of venous stagnation. This can happen due to constant compression of the perineal area by tight underwear, a sedentary lifestyle and circulatory disorders due to certain gynecological diseases (chronic adnexitis, adhesions, etc.).

The labia easily darken if you have sensitive skin, because it reacts sensitively to any aggressive influences and changes in the external environment. For example, increased pigmentation and blueness of the edges of the lips result from sunburn when tanning naked or prolonged exposure to radiation in a solarium while completely naked. Persistent pigmentation can appear due to the use of various creams and ointments, especially those containing mercury and sulfur.

CHLOASMA OF PREGNANT

The scary-sounding medical term “chloasma” is a solid spot with torn edges or a spot merged from many small ones. Many women, while pregnant, could notice similar spots on the forehead, cheeks, and intimate places, which disappeared after the birth of the baby. This is chloasma. Pregnancy (when estrogen and progesterone appear in excess), taking hormonal drugs, hormonal contraception, disturbances in the hormonal status of the body, menopause - these are the main reasons for the appearance of dark labia in both young girls and older women.

However, chloasma can also be a symptom of more severe endocrine diseases, problems with the cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal tract, liver disease, as well as disorders of the thyroid gland and nervous system. Chloasma in the forehead, mouth, temples, eyelids can indicate ovarian diseases, helminthiasis, and liver diseases. If dark brown spots have not gone away six months after the birth of the child or a month or two after stopping hormonal medications, you should immediately consult a gynecologist-endocrinologist.

What color are your labia?

Thus, the dark color of the labia in girls is a common feature of the structure of the external genitalia. Increased pigment deposition is due to individual hormonal levels, and this is an absolutely normal phenomenon. A change in the color of the external genitalia to dark (blue, almost cyanotic, purple), by the way, is one of the signs of pregnancy. Such changes can be observed already 10-12 days after conception - they swell, become more juicy, swollen.

Bartholinitis

There are cases when swelling appears only on one side and is accompanied by acute painful manifestations in the perineum. Such symptoms appear when infected with bartholinitis. In the presence of this disease, the glands that are responsible for the production of vaginal lubrication become clogged. Bartholin's glands are a paired organ located in the thickness of the labia majora. Symptoms of the disease:

pain in surrounding tissues;
swelling of the labia;
redness of the mucous membrane;
constant pain.

During pregnancy, swelling of the labia appears due to decreased immunity. It can be triggered by:

coli;
staphylococci and streptococci;
specific microorganisms;
pathogenic bacteria.

In the later weeks of pregnancy, swelling occurs due to This occurs because the veins in the labia dilate.

Causes of swelling

After fertilization of the egg, a woman’s body begins to undergo serious changes. Vital systems begin to work at an accelerated pace, hormone levels change, menstruation disappears, immunity weakens, the size of the uterus, abdomen increases, etc. All these factors affect the condition of the female body, including the shape, color and size of the labia.

Physiology

If a woman is pregnant, then swelling of the external genitalia may be physiological in nature - this is a normal phenomenon (especially in the early stages of pregnancy). The labia become swollen as a result of:

The enlargement of the embryo and, accordingly, the uterine body puts pressure on the lower part of the female body, slowing down the blood supply process, due to which swelling develops;
During the period of bearing a child, a rapid deposition of fatty tissue begins in the girl’s body - this process also provokes an enlargement of the external genitalia;
Changes in hormonal levels cause expansion of the vascular lumens. Due to this, a large amount of blood enters the area of the lips minor and major, and they, in turn, enlarge and acquire a bluish tint.

Swelling during pregnancy in the 3rd trimester, which develops during physiological processes, should not cause any discomfort. This condition is considered normal and does not require therapeutic action.

Pathologies

In addition to natural causes, swelling can develop as a result of the progression of pathogenic microorganisms. During pregnancy, the performance of the immune system deteriorates, and the girl is more likely to develop the following infectious diseases:

Thrush (Candida) - fungal organisms Candida are constantly present in a woman’s body, but with severe immunodeficiency they begin to manifest themselves as curd-like discharge from the vagina, itching and swelling;
Bartholinitis – inflammatory processes in the bartholinite glands. The disease manifests itself as a burning sensation in the perineum, the release of a grayish secretion, swelling and blue discoloration of the labia;
Gandarella, chlamydia, trichomanda, etc. – the progression of such organisms causes burning, itching and secretion that has a foul odor;
Vulvovaginitis - the area of the external genital organs can also become swollen due to this pathology, which develops due to inflammation of the vagina.

Diseases can pose a danger not only for the expectant mother, but also for the subsequent formation of the fetus. That is why, if you experience discomfort, you should immediately contact a gynecologist who will prescribe an effective and safe method of therapy.

Other factors

In addition to the physiological and pathological provocateurs of swelling, the external genitalia also often become swollen as a result of:

Incorrect and inconsistent adherence to intimate hygiene rules;
Wearing underwear made from synthetic materials. Uncomfortable panties can also adversely affect a girl’s intimate area;
Psycho-emotional disorders, constant depression and stress;
Disturbance of microflora in the vagina;
Individual intolerance to personal hygiene products (soaps, gels, pads, tampons, etc.);
An allergic reaction to some food.

If the genitals have enlarged for the reasons described, then the woman needs to make some changes to her lifestyle. Doctors recommend consulting with a specialist to be sure to refute the presence of gynecological diseases.

Diagnostics

Due to the fact that the reasons for the appearance of the main symptom are quite diverse, it is not acceptable to establish a correct diagnosis based only on symptoms. Patients are indicated for laboratory and instrumental examinations, before prescribing which the clinician should:

interview the patient in detail about the first time of appearance of swelling of the labia during pregnancy and the nature of the expression, both the main sign and additional ones;
study the medical history and compile an anamnesis of the patient’s life;
carry out a gynecological examination and assess the condition of the skin of the labia to determine what symptoms are accompanied by swelling.

Why the labia hurt - possible causes

If you experience constant pain, you should not make a diagnosis yourself, much less self-medicate. It is better to immediately seek help from an experienced gynecologist, who, after the necessary tests and examination, will make an accurate diagnosis.

There are several diseases that cause pain in the genitals during pregnancy.

Vulvovaginitis

Vulvovaginitis is an inflammatory disease that affects the labia and vaginal lining. It often occurs in women who do not keep their intimate areas clean. But it can appear due to other reasons: due to sexually transmitted infections, after sex, when it was rough and damage to the genitals occurred.

The symptoms are as follows:

plaque appears on the labia during pregnancy;
they itch and hurt;
the outer lining of the vulva turns red;
Serous-purulent discharge appears.

If these signs appear, you should immediately consult a doctor - there is a risk of losing your baby. If the disease appears at a later stage, in the 7th month of pregnancy, premature labor may begin and untimely release of amniotic fluid will occur, which will cause hypoxia in the fetus. There is a risk of developing intrauterine infection.

Bartholinitis

Bartholinitis is an inflammation of the Bartholin glands (located at the entrance to the vagina), caused by various microorganisms (enterococci, staphylococci, chlamydia). The disease is undesirable during pregnancy; its foci are located near the uterus. If bartholinitis appears in the early stages, that is, before 20 weeks, the infection can lead to the death of the child. In the later stages, there is a risk of infection of the baby. Therefore, treatment cannot be delayed.

Signs:

the mucous membrane becomes red;
the affected area swells, the swelling grows over time;
The labia may hurt, the pain becomes stronger during physical activity, walking, urination, or during intimate relationships;
with the purulent form of the disease, a cavity filled with pus is formed, small seals appear near the vagina;
lethargy, loss of strength;
The temperature rises to 39 degrees.

How to treat the labia?

Immediately before treatment, the cause of the disease is established, after which they proceed to the therapy procedure. It occurs according to the following criteria:

Infections appear due to poor personal hygiene; first, it is necessary to establish the cause of the pathogen, and only then proceed to the treatment itself with antibiotics. Candidiasis is often treated with Fluconazole and Clotrimazoline simultaneously (ointments, suppositories and orally). Genital herpes virus is treated with acyclovir-based medications. But it is contraindicated a month before childbirth and in the first 3-4 months after conception.
Very often, swollen labia during pregnancy appear after sexual intercourse, in which case it will go away on its own.
There are cases when swelling occurs before critical days and PMS; in this case, treatment is not required, since everything will go away on its own.
It is recommended to wear maternity underwear. What is its charm? Since the cause may be the impact on the female organs of poor-quality material, such underwear for pregnant women is made from natural fabrics; it will not irritate delicate areas.
For diabetes mellitus, treatment is prohibited, except perhaps with insulin. The most effective solution is to carry out the ablution procedure with warm and cool water alternately on an ongoing basis. It is very useful to wipe the intimate parts of the body with a weak solution of citric acid or vinegar: half a teaspoon per glass of water. You need to wipe it several times a day. This procedure will help restore the acid balance.
Very often, swelling of the labia during pregnancy goes away on its own after childbirth. It is believed that edema cannot be treated during pregnancy, because most types of therapy to remove fluid from the body harm the baby much more than the edema itself. Many experts recommend switching to melted, soft, structured water such as Longavita.
For vulvovaginitis, treatment is prescribed by a doctor. It consists of taking antifungal drugs, hormone replacements, and antibiotics. You also need to douching with acceptable, prescribed medications. During the treatment of swelling of the labia during pregnancy, the vaginal microflora is restored by applying probiotics, eliminating allergens and other factors that act as irritants.
For bartholinitis, bed rest and abstinence from sexual activity are recommended. If the labia is swollen, only a doctor can prescribe treatment. In case of severe pain, it is allowed to apply ice to the inflamed area. The following drugs are also allowed: imidazoles, fluoroquinolones, cephalosporins, penicillins. It is necessary to treat the swollen areas with a special ointment and apply small compresses with Levomikol or ichthyol ointment. It is allowed to use a solution with chlorhexidine or miramistin for swelling of the labia during pregnancy.

Reasons why the labia turn blue

Blueness of the mucous membranes of the intimate area occurs against the background of changes in blood circulation . As a result, a change in pigmentation occurs, which changes the color of the genitals.

Photo 1: Bluishness of the intimate area is a common phenomenon among pregnant women. This is not a pathology unless it is accompanied by atypical symptoms. Source: flickr (Evgeniy rumedicalnews).

There are certain differences in the factors that cause blueness of the lips major and minor.

Why do the labia majora turn blue?

Among the most common causes of blueness in the intimate area are the following:

Physical impact . Bluishness can be caused by either a bruise in the intimate area or wearing tight underwear;
Physiological features . If, according to anatomical parameters, a girl’s legs are very close, the groin area is susceptible to friction even while walking. A similar phenomenon is observed in cases where the congenital feature is the large size of the external labia;
Allergic reaction . The allergen may be synthetic underwear, perfumed hygiene products or medications taken;
Hormonal changes and disruptions . Pigmentation changes with hormonal changes. For example, before the onset of sexual activity, the intimate area in women is lighter in color, and with its onset it darkens and turns blue.

Causes of blue labia minora

Due to the peculiarities of their location, the labia minora are not so susceptible to external mechanical damage . Their blueness can be caused by :

A strong blow or constant wearing of tight underwear and trousers (for example, tight jeans made of thick fabric). Due to subcutaneous hemorrhage, a bruise forms, which explains the blueness;
Allergy to synthetic fabrics , cosmetics and medications;
Hormonal imbalance . The color of the intimate area changes in women over 35 years of age, as estrogen production increases and the color intensity changes.

Causes of blue labia during pregnancy

The labia become blue after at least two weeks from the moment of conception . From the second trimester, the color becomes even more saturated, the intimate area may swell and itch. These changes are typical, they are caused by a sharp change in blood circulation in the genital area and should not cause concern .

Blue labia and diseases

If the blue color of the labia is not caused by mechanical damage, hormonal changes or allergies, it is likely that this is a sign of the development of the disease.

Blueness of the labia majora and minora may indicate the following diseases :

Varicose veins , which can subsequently lead to acute thrombophlebitis and bleeding. Pregnant women are most susceptible to developing chronic venous stagnation;
Inflammatory processes in the ovaries . In most cases, they cause changes in hormonal levels, which provokes blueness;
Fungal infections . Against the background of the disease, the labia darken, peel and itch;
Oncological neoplasms in the gastrointestinal tract . Along with the color, the tactile parameters of the skin change - it becomes denser and velvety;
Insufficiency of the adrenal cortex (or Itsenko-Cushing syndrome). A rather rare pathology, the characteristic symptom of which is the cyanosis of the mucous membranes of the labia. Blue discoloration may spread up the abdomen and appear on the elbows.

Prevention

Preventive measures are as follows:

If the labia is swollen, you need to avoid promiscuity and incomplete sex.
Wear only high-quality underwear made from natural material so that it is of normal size.
Maintain personal hygiene daily using special products; do not use bath foam and shower gel.
Use panty liners for swelling of the genitals.
Do not use thermal underwear.
Maintain a level of hygiene. After using the toilet, you should wipe from front to back to ensure that the genital area always remains clean and dry.
The vaginal area should be moisturized with a cream containing glycerin and non-allergic lubricants.

According to statistics, varicose veins of the genital organs occur frequently in pregnant women - in about a third of pregnant women. The risks increase with each subsequent pregnancy, especially if there is a genetic predisposition.

Varicose veins of the pelvic organs are a disease in which the veins of the external genital area dilate and pathologically change.

In most cases, symptoms of the disease disappear after the baby is born. But sometimes, without adequate treatment, varicose veins progress and can complicate the course of pregnancy and the birth process itself.

If you suspect a disease, it is important to consult a doctor and choose treatment tactics. Proper therapy helps stop the progression of the pathology and prevents complications.

Treatment

The bluish color of the vulva is most often uncomfortable from an aesthetic point of view. Its presence can be ignored except in cases where the blueness of the labia is accompanied by unpleasant sensations. In this case, the woman must visit a doctor and undergo all the necessary examinations.

If the skin in the vulva area has changed color, a visit to an endocrinologist and oncologist is mandatory. If the unusual color of the labia is a serious cause of discomfort, homeopathic remedies can be used to restore normal color to the area, but only after the doctor's permission. Homeopathic medicines boost immunity and help restore hormonal balance. Due to this, the bluish color is replaced by a more familiar one.

A change in the color of a woman's external genitalia usually causes concern primarily from an aesthetic point of view. However, these types of changes are often accompanied by painful symptoms .

Important! In this case, a pathological process is likely to develop in the body; it cannot be ignored.

Causes

The causes of varicose veins of the genital organs during pregnancy are multifaceted. The position itself is a powerful predisposing factor.

Don't wear high heels

Women awaiting replenishment experience severe stress on the body, which leads to an exacerbation of existing chronic diseases. The development of pathology becomes a manifestation of general varicose veins or the first signal of a disruption in the functioning of the veins.

Reasons for development:

increase in circulating blood volume. Increases pressure on blood vessels. Since the walls of veins have less density and elasticity compared to arteries, they suffer first;
pressure of the growing uterus on the pelvic organs. Leads to a delay in the outflow of blood from the lower extremities;
weight gain. Increases the load on blood vessels. The saphenous veins, which are not surrounded by muscles, are especially affected;
increase in progesterone levels. Its excess impairs the elasticity of blood vessels and promotes venous stagnation.

This is especially true for women who used hormonal medications before pregnancy or suffered from hormonal disorders.

Not the least role in the development of the disease is played by the hereditary factor, diet, lifestyle, and work characteristics. For example, excess body weight, standing or sedentary occupation predisposes to the manifestation of pathology during pregnancy.

Causes

Varicose veins occur quite often during pregnancy, but this does not happen in every case. Even if the patient is initially predisposed to vascular diseases, predisposing factors play a major role. Possible causes of varicose veins of the labia include:

Hormonal changes. During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes significant hormonal changes, as a result of which the veins can become weak and vulnerable. This is largely influenced by changes in the levels of progesterone and estrogen.
Fetal growth. Due to the intrauterine growth of the child, the uterus also increases in size and gradually puts more and more pressure on the bloodstream in the pelvic organs. As a result, blood circulation slows down, which leads to the formation of stagnation, expanding the lumen of blood vessels.
Increased circulating blood volume. A pregnant woman’s body has to supply nutrients and oxygen not only to its own tissues, but also to the baby’s cells. For this reason, the amount of blood circulating in the network increases, which expands the weakened veins.
Chronic diseases of the genital organs. Exacerbation of existing pathologies of the genitourinary system negatively affects blood circulation in this area.
Static lifestyle. Pregnant women need to move as much as possible; regular walking is required, and other types of physical activity should be discussed with a doctor. Low physical activity during pregnancy contributes to multiple health problems.
Irrational loads. Excessive loads, as well as insufficient ones, are harmful. In addition, prolonged standing or sitting at work increases the risk of developing varicose veins in the groin area.
Increase in body weight. During pregnancy, a woman can rapidly gain weight, and this, in turn, increases the load on the body, in particular, the blood vessels of the lower extremities. Varicose veins of the legs gradually lead to damage to the labia.
Congenital pathologies. If a patient has genetic abnormalities in the structure of the circulatory system or specifically venous valves, during pregnancy the risk of developing diseases on this basis increases.
Constipation. Abnormal bowel movements often occur during pregnancy; this provokes an increase in pressure in the blood vessels of the pelvic organs.

Thus, many pregnant women are at risk. Bad habits can also influence the development of the disease, especially if they were not given up during pregnancy.

Poor environment and an unhealthy lifestyle in general can also play a role. The most predisposed to varicose veins of the labia are women experiencing difficult childbirth, as well as those who have already given birth with complications.

Symptoms of the disease

The main symptoms of varicose veins of the genital organs in women during pregnancy:

enlargement of the lips major or minor;
itching, feeling of fullness in the perineum;
skin irritation in the groin;
swelling of the saphenous vein;
discomfort, pain during sexual intercourse.

The feeling of fullness and swelling usually goes away by the end of the first week after childbirth. After a month, the vascular wall normalizes.

External signs of varicose veins of the genital organs are similar to diseases of the lower extremities. Some symptoms are detected independently, others become visible only with instrumental diagnostics.

Prominent veins

Dilatation of the veins of the pelvic organs should not be ignored. It is dangerous due to the possibility of ruptures and bleeding during childbirth. Therefore, at the first symptoms, it is recommended to consult a specialist for treatment. It is difficult for women with varicose veins to become pregnant.

Depending on the degree of pathology, the issue of a natural birth or, if indicated, a caesarean section is decided.

Norm

It is immediately worth noting that the female external genitalia can have different shapes and sizes; for each woman these characteristics are purely individual. The color can also vary, it is determined by the degree of pigmentation of the mucous membranes. Normally, the labia can be either pale pink or have a dark brown tint. Against this background, blue genitals may fall out of the norm.

If a woman with blue labia does not experience discomfort or pain, then she can calmly relate to such an unusual color of her vulva. The anomaly is determined by the physiology of a particular woman.

Varicose veins of the labia

Most common during pregnancy, most often appears in the 2nd or 3rd trimester. See what the veins on the labia look like when you are sick in the photo.

Consultation with a doctor

Most often, its manifestation is caused by varicose veins in the legs. Swollen areas appear on the lip (or two), itching, burning, pain, and swelling are felt. The sensation is especially strong when using the toilet or after standing for a long time.

Doctors note that a significant dilation of the veins of the genital organs during pregnancy creates a certain load on the fetus, which in severe cases threatens miscarriage. Women facing the disease should not forget about this.

The pathology is fraught not only with physical discomfort, but also causes psycho-emotional trauma to the pregnant woman. Deformed and darkened labia, large veins may look unsightly.

Consultations are needed not only with a phlebologist, but possibly with a family psychologist.

The first one will tell you how to treat pathology during pregnancy. And the second will explain that with proper and timely treatment, the disease will recede after childbirth and the genitals will return to normal.

On big lips

Varicose veins on the labia majora during pregnancy have bright external manifestations:

A soft nodule appears. It's easy to miss at first.
It increases over time and can cause difficulties when walking and sitting.
Causes discomfort during sexual intercourse.
Without treatment, the number of nodules increases.
The color and shape of the labia majora change. They darken, turn blue, swell, and swell.

A woman can discover the disease herself. When palpated, small bumps and nodules are felt. Disturbing discomfort in the genital area.

Looks something like this

The doctor can easily see enlarged veins on the labia during an examination. Therefore, diagnosing the disease is not difficult and does not require additional instrumental studies.

The vessels are noticeable in the form of swollen, convoluted subcutaneous formations of a bluish color. They protrude under the surface of the dermis.

Changes are also found in the mucous membrane covering the labia. On examination, spider veins are visible.

On the small lips

Varicose veins of the small lips have the same symptoms during pregnancy as the large ones. The only difference is that the venous nodes pop up on the labia minora. Nodules appear that look like soft swellings.

Gradually they increase in size, discomfort intensifies, and the appearance of the genital organs becomes unaesthetic.

How does the color of the labia change during pregnancy?

If you notice that your labia have changed their color, we advise you to first take a pregnancy test, and then, possibly, visit a gynecologist.
Because such symptoms are likely to indicate that conception occurred in the woman’s last menstrual cycle. It is unlikely that there will be many girls who regularly examine the color of their labia, but it is quite possible to notice such a change. Moreover: some couples notice this sign very first, without even suspecting that pregnancy could occur. Overall, this is definitely worth talking about.

In addition to size, the color of the labia often changes during pregnancy. And this should not scare you.

Varicose veins of the vagina

This is a more dangerous type of varicose veins during pregnancy. It is characterized by damage to the blood vessels of the female reproductive system, which is accompanied by unpleasant symptoms.

With this pathology, veins expand in diameter and the vascular walls become thinner. Nodules form on them, disrupting normal blood flow. Most often it occurs in pregnant women who previously suffered from varicose veins.

Diagnosing the disease on your own is difficult. It is worth contacting a gynecologist for examination and palpation.

With an incorrect diagnosis, inadequate therapy or its absence, complications often develop. Therefore, to exclude errors, after a visual examination, the woman undergoes an ultrasound examination.

The consequence of the disease may be blood thickening. This is due to the fact that in pregnant women it becomes more viscous. Rarely, pelvic vein thrombosis occurs.

With this type of disease, the main symptoms of varicose veins include:

complaints about the lower limbs and pelvis, for example, muscle cramps, a feeling of heaviness in the legs;
problems with the urinary system: oliguria, frequent urination;
flatulence, constipation;
pain in the lower abdomen.

Compression underwear

Dilated veins are not an obstacle to natural childbirth. But doctors prefer to perform a cesarean section in situations where varicose veins progress rapidly and the nodes greatly increase in size.

In most cases, timely treatment helps eliminate the problem before birth. After the birth of the baby, the factors provoking the pathology disappear, so the disease goes away.

In rare cases, when the disease is advanced, additional treatment may be needed in the postpartum period.

Important: varicose veins that appeared during the first pregnancy are highly likely to occur during the second. Strict adherence to your doctor’s recommendations and preventive measures will help minimize risks.

Reasons why the labia turn blue

Photo 1: Bluishness of the intimate area is a common phenomenon among pregnant women. This is not a pathology unless it is accompanied by atypical symptoms. Source: flickr (Evgeniy rumedicalnews).

There are certain differences in the factors that cause blueness of the lips major and minor.

Why do the labia majora turn blue?

Among the most common causes of blueness in the intimate area are the following:

Physical impact . Bluishness can be caused by either a bruise in the intimate area or wearing tight underwear;
Physiological features . If, according to anatomical parameters, a girl’s legs are very close, the groin area is susceptible to friction even while walking. A similar phenomenon is observed in cases where the congenital feature is the large size of the external labia;
Allergic reaction . The allergen may be synthetic underwear, perfumed hygiene products or medications taken;
Hormonal changes and disruptions . Pigmentation changes with hormonal changes. For example, before the onset of sexual activity, the intimate area in women is lighter in color, and with its onset it darkens and turns blue.

Causes of blue labia minora

Due to the peculiarities of their location, the labia minora are not so susceptible to external mechanical damage . Their blueness can be caused by :

A strong blow or constant wearing of tight underwear and trousers (for example, tight jeans made of thick fabric). Due to subcutaneous hemorrhage, a bruise forms, which explains the blueness;
Allergy to synthetic fabrics , cosmetics and medications;
Hormonal imbalance . The color of the intimate area changes in women over 35 years of age, as estrogen production increases and the color intensity changes.

Causes of blue labia during pregnancy

Blue labia and diseases

If the blue color of the labia is not caused by mechanical damage, hormonal changes or allergies, it is likely that this is a sign of the development of the disease.

Blueness of the labia majora and minora may indicate the following diseases :

Varicose veins , which can subsequently lead to acute thrombophlebitis and bleeding. Pregnant women are most susceptible to developing chronic venous stagnation;
Inflammatory processes in the ovaries . In most cases, they cause changes in hormonal levels, which provokes blueness;
Fungal infections . Against the background of the disease, the labia darken, peel and itch;
Oncological neoplasms in the gastrointestinal tract . Along with the color, the tactile parameters of the skin change - it becomes denser and velvety;
Insufficiency of the adrenal cortex (or Itsenko-Cushing syndrome). A rather rare pathology, the characteristic symptom of which is the cyanosis of the mucous membranes of the labia. Blue discoloration may spread up the abdomen and appear on the elbows.

Varicose veins of the vulva

During pregnancy, it may not have pronounced symptoms, manifesting mainly as pain in the lower abdomen. The only reliable method for diagnosing the disease is examination using an ultrasound machine.

Symptoms of varicose veins of the vulva also include:

sudden mood swings;
itching in the groin;
the appearance of dryness and age spots.

In the later stages, distortion of the shape of the labia, spider veins and nodules on them are noticeable. See photo.

It is necessary to treat

These processes during pregnancy often lead to damage to the vessels of the uterus and pose a threat to the condition of the fetus. If left untreated, varicose veins of the vulva can lead to one of the most dangerous complications - rupture of the vaginal veins and severe bleeding. Doctors advise giving birth by caesarean section.

Causes of circulatory disorders in the veins of the external genitalia

Pregnancy is certainly an important event in the life of every woman. But at the same time, this is a difficult test of strength for the body, which in the near future will have to work hard “for two”.

Despite the large number of changes that are obvious to others, the main work on restructuring a woman’s body during pregnancy proceeds unnoticed, and hormonal levels play a major role in them.

Factors that provoke varicose veins of the genital organs during pregnancy include:

The action of the hormone progesterone, which is responsible for the preservation and normal course of pregnancy. This biologically active substance not only prevents increased uterine tone, but also has a relaxing effect on the smooth muscle tissue of the entire body, including the peripheral veins of the groin.
An increase in the volume of blood circulating in the body causes increased stress on the blood vessels.
Pressure of the rapidly growing uterus on nearby organs and choroid plexuses, disruption of blood outflow.
Significant increase in body weight while expecting a baby.
Reduced physical activity of a woman during pregnancy.

Note! Heredity plays an important role in the formation of the disease. Be especially attentive to your veins if your immediate family (mother, sister, grandmother) has signs of varicose veins.

Varicose veins of the perineum

During pregnancy, it occurs in a third of all cases of varicose veins. The uterus with a growing fetus is the main reason leading to compression of the main veins. The following symptoms appear:

dilation of veins in the perineum, vulva, vagina;
feeling of heaviness, itching;
swelling of the genital organs;
intense, bursting pain from within;
acute form of varicothrombophlebitis;
ruptures of blood vessels and severe bleeding.

The intensity of bleeding is spontaneous. They are often provoked by sexual intercourse or the onset of childbirth. It is difficult to stop as it is caused by high blood pressure.

The simplest solution

Varicose veins restoration at the doctor manifestation vein underwear preservation