GENITAL PAIN | VULVODYNIA PERTH
Genital and vulval pain:
Why it happens, when to worry, and how to fix it
Sexual health clinic in Joondalup
My Sexual Health consults at
Luma Medical, 8/189 Lakeside Dr, Joondalup WA 6027
Luma Medical, 227 Newcastle St, Northbridge WA 6003
GENITAL PAIN | VULVODYNIA PERTH
Why does it hurt down there?!
Genital pain, whether in the vulva, vagina, penis, or testicles, is something no one really talks about, but it’s more common than you think. It can feel like burning, stinging, aching, or sharp pain, and it can happen during sex, when sitting, or even when doing nothing at all.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Is this normal? Am I overreacting? Should I just wait for it to go away?”—the answer is simple: genital and vulval pain isn’t something to ignore. If it’s persistent or affecting your daily life, it’s important to get it checked.
For some, the cause is clear: an infection, an injury, or a skin condition. For others, the pain is ongoing and unexplained, like vulvodynia or pelvic floor dysfunction and chronic pelvic pain. No matter what’s behind it, there are options that may help improve your symptoms.
What could be causing your pain?
- Vulvodynia – A long-term, unexplained pain in the vulva that doesn’t go away. It can feel like burning, stinging, or soreness—even when there’s no obvious cause.
- Candidiasis (thrush) – A common yeast infection that causes itching, burning, and soreness. It can make sex or even just wearing tight clothes uncomfortable.
- Bacterial vaginosis (BV) – Not usually painful, but some people experience irritation or mild discomfort. BV often comes with a fishy smell and thin, greyish discharge.
- STIs (like herpes or chlamydia) – Sexually transmitted infections can cause pain, irritation, or burning, sometimes without other obvious symptoms.
- Pelvic floor dysfunction – If your pelvic muscles are too tight, they can cause pain during sex, when inserting a tampon, or even when sitting for long periods.
- Hormonal changes (menopause, birth control, pregnancy) – Changes in oestrogen levels can lead to vaginal dryness, irritation, and discomfort, especially during sex.
- Gender-affirming care (hormone therapy or surgeries) – Pain can sometimes occur as a result of gender-affirming hormone therapy or procedures like vaginoplasty or phalloplasty. We provide support for all patients experiencing these types of pain.
- Lichen sclerosus or other skin conditions – These conditions may cause white patches, thinning skin, and soreness on the vulva, which can be painful and itchy.
- Nerve pain or chronic conditions – Conditions like fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or interstitial cystitis can sometimes be linked to chronic vulval pain.
I thought it would just go away…
A one-off twinge? Probably nothing. A pain that keeps coming back? That’s different.
- Sex shouldn’t hurt.
- Wearing leggings shouldn’t hurt.
- Sitting down shouldn’t hurt.
Vulval pain is not normal—it’s your body’s way of saying, “Hey, something’s not right!” When you don’t do anything about it, the pain can start to affect your mood, relationships, and confidence.
Home remedies vs. when to see a doctor
What you can try at home:
- Wear cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing.
- Avoid harsh or scented products, as these can disrupt your natural balance. If you prefer to use a wash, choose a pH-balanced, fragrance-free option.
- Use lubrication if sex is painful.
- Try cold packs if your vulva feels inflamed or irritated.
Signs you should see a doctor:
- Pain during sex that’s more than just a ‘bad position’ moment.
- Pain when inserting tampons or even with light touch.
- Burning, stinging, or soreness that lingers after sex or pressure.
- Pain that gets worse when sitting, cycling, or wearing tight clothes.
- Ongoing pain with no clear cause.
If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to book an appointment at My Sexual Health in Joondalup.
What causes genital pain in men?
- Infections (STIs and non-STIs) – Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, herpes, or even prostatitis can cause pain, burning, or discomfort.
- Testicular pain – Epididymitis (infection), varicocele (swollen veins), or even testicular torsion (a serious emergency) can cause pain.
- Pelvic floor problems – Yes, men can have tight pelvic muscles too, leading to aching or pain in the testicles, penis, or perineum.
- Nerve-related pain – Pudendal neuralgia (a trapped nerve in the pelvis) can cause stabbing, burning, or aching pain.
When should you see a doctor?
If you have ongoing pain, sudden severe pain, or discomfort that won’t go away, it’s time to get checked out. See a doctor if you have:
- Pain in the penis or testicles that doesn’t improve
- Burning or pain when peeing
- Swelling, redness, or sores
- A deep aching or heaviness in the pelvis or testicles
- A sudden, sharp pain in the testicle (this could be testicular torsion—get to a doctor ASAP!)
“Whether we know the cause or even when there’s no obvious cause like in vulvodynia, there are treatments that can help. Genital and vulval pain can be complex, but there are ways to manage it. We take a thorough approach to assess and explore the best options for you.”
SEXUAL HEALTH CLINIC Joondalup
How we figure out what’s going on
At My Sexual Health in Joondalup, we take genital and vulval pain seriously. We provide a professional and supportive space where you can discuss your symptoms openly.
- First step? We listen. You deserve to be heard.
- We assess everything—infections, hormonal changes, muscle tightness, nerve issues, and skin conditions.
- We create a plan—whether it’s medication, physiotherapy, or lifestyle changes, we find what works for you.
Sometimes, managing pain takes a team: we may refer you to a pelvic health physiotherapist or psychologist if needed. Whatever it takes, we’ve got you.
SEXUAL HEALTH SERVICES PERTH
My Sexual Health Joondalup
Genital and vulval pain is real, and it’s valid. You’re not “too sensitive” or “imagining things.”
Whether it’s something simple and fixable or a long-term condition that needs to be managed, we’re here to help.
At My Sexual Health in Joondalup, we offer expert care in a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space. You don’t have to live with pain—let’s figure it out together.