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What causes vaginal and rectal pain?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am experiencing pain in one side of my vagina and pain in my rectum. Also, I am feeling that something has stuck in my vagina. Sometimes pain is mild, sometimes it is a burning sensation. I also felt discomfort in sitting.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Georges Hany Kozah

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

Pain on one side of your vagina and rectum, along with a feeling of something stuck, could be due to several possible causes, including:

Possible causes:

  1. Pelvic floor muscle tension: If you have been stressed or had hormonal changes, the pelvic muscles may be tight, causing pain in the vagina, rectum, and discomfort when sitting.

  2. Vaginal or rectal infection (yeast or bacterial vaginosis, hemorrhoids, or anal fissures): A yeast infection can cause burning pain and discomfort. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) or urinary tract infections can cause vaginal irritation. Hemorrhoids or anal fissures may cause rectal pain and discomfort while sitting.

  3. Bartholin’s cyst or abscess (if the pain is on one side): If the pain is mostly on one side of the vagina, it could be a Bartholin’s gland cyst (a small fluid-filled lump near the vaginal opening). If infected, it can cause pain, swelling, and burning sensations.

  4. Nerve irritation (pudendal neuralgia): A condition where the pudendal nerve (which runs through the pelvis) gets irritated, leading to burning pain, a "foreign body" sensation, and discomfort when sitting.

  5. Prolapse (less likely but possible): If you had a vaginal delivery, mild pelvic organ prolapse can cause a sensation of something being "stuck" in the vagina.

What you can do:

  1. Check for swelling or lumps: Gently touch the area to see if you feel a lump near the vaginal opening.

  2. Try a warm sitz bath: Sitting in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes can relieve pain.

  3. Stay hydrated and avoid constipation: If pain is in the rectum, eat fiber-rich foods and drink more water.

  4. Use pain relief if needed: Over-the-counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen may help.

See a doctor if:

  1. The pain worsens.

  2. You notice swelling, fever, or discharge.

  3. The feeling of something being "stuck" does not go away.

Have you noticed any swelling, abnormal discharge, or pain while urinating?

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At May 9, 2025
Reviewed At May 14, 2025

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Companion

Vaginal and Rectal Pain: Causes and Care Companion

How it works

Vaginal and rectal pain can stem from various causes, ranging from muscle tension to infections. Understanding these possibilities can help you discuss your symptoms with a healthcare professional.

1

Pelvic
Tension

2

Infection
Recognition

3

Bartholin's
Cyst

4

Nerve
Irritation

5

Organ
Prolapse

6

When
Seek Care

This information is based on general medical guidance. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice; consult a qualified clinician.

Always consult a doctor before taking medication; self-medication carries serious health risks. Take exact prescribed doses, and never start, change, or stop treatment without medical supervision.

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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