I am a 22 yr old virgin, and the only sexual activity i have had would be my hand....but i haven't done anything like that all week, and now suddenly today my left outer vaginal lip is swollen to twice the size of the right one, it doesn't look like there's a rash or anything....but its sore, itchy, and very irritating. I haven't been doing or wearing anything different, and we haven't changed our laundry detergents. I really don't want to have to go see the gyno because she's kind of rude and never believes me when i tell her im not having sex....plus its just embarrassing to have someone im not dating or attracted to. looking and feeling around down there....Whatever it is that caused the swelling and irritation, is there a safe way to take care of it myself so i dont have to go through the embarrassment of having the gyno look :-|:-(
It's very likely that you're having a yeast infection. Yeast infection is caused by a fungus called "Candida albicans" which is normally found in small amounts in the vigina. This infection is often found on people with weakened immune system, in most cases it is not the sex activities which bring women yeast infections. A patient infected with yeast infection may suffer from any one or all of these symptoms:
Pain/itch/burning at vulva area
Pain/itch/burning in vagina
Pain during intercourse and/or urination
Cottage cheese like vaginal discharge
Swelling and pain around the vulva
Whatever, for such a situation, you'd really need to see your gyno and get a definite test since there're many conditions and diseases share common symptoms. If you do have one you'll get prescriptions. Natural treatment such as herbal formula named SPAM could also be a good option, you may google it and have a look. Besides, you can try to eat lots of plain yogurt, it may help a lot. Good luck!