Swollen Labia Majora, Sore. Sexually Inactive. Soaked In Warm Water. Reason?
Thanks for posting your query.
Swelling on the labia majora with tenderness can be due to -
1. Bartholin's Cyst - Is located midway of the labia, and protrudes into the vagina and causes discomfort.
If infection sets in, the result is a Bartholin's abscess. Since you have pain present in the swelling, infection is a likely possibility. Usually systemic antibiotics are needed to control the infection.
2. Infected hair follicles - can form small absesses, which can cause a small swelling, but they are associated with redness and throbbing pain.
Proper diagnosis requires a proper physical examination of the swelling in question. You might need to consult a gynaecologist who can examine and then decide on the appropriate treatment.
Meanwhile doing a hot fomentation in the area might help in reducing the swelling. Taking over the counter anti inflammatory drugs like Ibuprofen will also help.
I hope this answers your query effectively. In case you have additional questions or doubts, you can forward them to me, and I shall be glad to help you out.
Regards.
For a Doctor visit, would it be better to see a gynacologist or should I start with my primary doctor.
Thanks for writing again.
From the further details that you have provided Bartholin's cysts seems more likely.
Consulting a gynaecologist will be a better option for proper treatment.
Hope my answer is helpful. Write back if you have further queries.
Wishing you a trouble free speedy recovery.