Pain During Vaginal Suppository Use for Yeast Infections

Vaginal suppositories for vaginitis?

Hello, doctor.
A few days ago, I visited the gynecology clinic due to itching and pain in the vagina.
I'm not sure if a suppository was inserted during the examination, but I experienced severe pain during the consultation afterward.
It was confirmed that I have vaginitis and vulvitis caused by Candida and other fungi, and I was prescribed Clotrimazole vaginal tablets.
After taking a shower at night, I inserted the medication and felt intense pain (the same pain occurred the next day after insertion).
My family and friends mentioned that inserting a suppository should not be painful, but I was in so much pain that I couldn't do anything.
I would like to ask, doctor, is this pain a normal reaction due to the disinfection process? The pain gradually subsided after about an hour.

Leimi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/25

Dr. Tian Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

It is possible that due to individual differences in constitution, this medication may cause a stronger irritation to your vaginal skin.
If the pain persists, it is advisable to return to your original physician's office to see if a medication adjustment is necessary.

Reply Date: 2016/10/25

More Info

When using vaginal suppositories for yeast infections, it is not uncommon to experience discomfort or pain, especially if there is an underlying condition such as vaginitis or vulvitis. In your case, the presence of Candida (the yeast responsible for yeast infections) and other fungal infections can lead to inflammation and sensitivity in the vaginal area. This inflammation can make the vaginal tissues more reactive to any form of insertion, including suppositories.

The pain you experienced during and after inserting the suppository could be attributed to several factors:
1. Inflammation and Sensitivity: The vaginal tissues may be inflamed due to the infection, making them more sensitive to touch or pressure. This can lead to a heightened pain response when inserting a suppository.

2. Chemical Irritation: Some antifungal medications can cause irritation to already sensitive tissues. The active ingredients in the suppository may provoke a reaction, leading to discomfort or pain during application.

3. Technique of Insertion: If the suppository is not inserted gently or if there is tension in the pelvic area, it can lead to increased discomfort. It is essential to ensure that the insertion is done carefully and with a relaxed pelvic floor to minimize pain.

4. Underlying Conditions: If there are other underlying conditions, such as vulvodynia or other forms of vaginitis, these can exacerbate the pain experienced during the use of suppositories.

It is important to note that while some individuals may not experience pain during the use of vaginal suppositories, others may have different experiences based on their unique physiological responses and the severity of their condition.
If the pain persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider. They may consider the following options:
- Medication Adjustment: If the current antifungal treatment is causing significant discomfort, your doctor may suggest an alternative medication that is less irritating to the vaginal tissues.

- Pain Management: Your healthcare provider may recommend topical anesthetics or other pain relief methods to help alleviate discomfort during treatment.

- Further Evaluation: If the pain continues despite treatment, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out other potential causes of pain, such as bacterial infections or other gynecological issues.

In summary, while some discomfort can be expected when using vaginal suppositories for yeast infections, severe pain is not typical and should be addressed with your healthcare provider. They can help ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatment for your condition and manage any pain effectively.

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