Can a 21-year-old female experience pain from pessary use?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

The pessary may cause local irritation or a small scratch if inserted in the wrong position. This can result in pain, burning, and worsening of infection symptoms. Stop using it for now. Wash the area gently with lukewarm water and keep it dry. Do not insert anything until the burning and pain improve.

The likely causes include local trauma from wrong insertion, an exacerbation of an existing infection, or an allergic or irritant reaction to the medication. The probable diagnosis is vaginal irritation with a flare-up of superadded infection.

Investigations:

1. Vaginal swab and culture to check for bacterial or fungal overgrowth.

2. Repeat the urine routine and culture if burning during urination continues.

Treatment:

1. Stop using the pessary temporarily.

2. Sitz bath with warm water two to three times a day for relief.

3. Apply a soothing vaginal gel, such as a lactate-based or aloe vera-based gel.

4. Oral painkillers such as Paracetamol 500 mg, if pain is severe, should be taken after meals.

5. If there is discharge, a foul smell, fever, or worsening pain after the swab result, start antifungal or antibiotic treatment.

Preventive measures:

1. Always wash your hands before inserting any medication.

2. Insert only as per instructions in the leaflet.

3. Avoid harsh soaps and perfumed washes.

If pain does not reduce within 24 to 48 hours or the discharge becomes thick or foul-smelling, consult a gynecologist for a local examination.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.