Slight swelling and pain below at 36 weeks of pregnancy
May 11, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Enlargement of the uterus exerts pressure on adjacent organs such as the bladder and intestines, as well as on the sciatic nerve at the pelvic floor, reflexively causing a sensation of distension and pain in the perineal area. Inflammatory secretions may also irritate the local vulvar tissues, leading to discomfort and swelling in the genital region. Additionally, uterine enlargement can compress the inferior vena cava, increasing its intraluminal pressure, impeding venous return, and resulting in venous dilation and tortuosity.
Here, "below" refers to the genital area, and "pregnancy" refers to gestation. Genital swelling and pain at 36 weeks of pregnancy may be caused by physiological factors or pathological conditions such as vaginitis or venous varicosity during pregnancy. The specific analysis is as follows:
I. Physiological Causes
At 36 weeks of gestation, which falls within the late pregnancy stage, the enlarged uterus may compress adjacent organs such as the bladder and intestines, as well as the sciatic nerve at the pelvic floor, reflexively causing a sensation of swelling and discomfort in the perineal area. This is considered a normal physiological phenomenon.
II. Pathological Causes
1. Vaginitis
When women develop vaginitis, inflammatory secretions can irritate the local vulvar area, leading to genital swelling, pain, and discomfort, often accompanied by increased discharge and an unpleasant odor. Under medical guidance, medications such as Honghe Fuyan Wash Solution (Red Kernel Gynecological Cleanser) or nystatin suppositories may be used for treatment.
2. Venous Varicosity During Pregnancy
In late pregnancy, blood flow in the maternal pelvic cavity significantly increases. The enlarging uterus compresses the inferior vena cava, increasing pressure within it and obstructing venous return, resulting in dilation and twisting of the vein walls. Using a maternity support belt to lift the enlarged abdomen and applying local heat therapy may help relieve symptoms.
In addition, swelling and pain could also result from other conditions such as vulvitis, vulvar cysts, or pubic symphysis diastasis. It is recommended to avoid prolonged standing and seek evaluation and treatment at a hospital's obstetrics and gynecology department to determine the underlying cause.
