The female reproductive system is complex; countless issues can cause vaginal pain and discomfort. Any form of pain warrants a discussion with your doctor, but many women encounter puzzling problems they’re too afraid to ask about. One example many hesitate to ask is, “Do I have a shallow vagina?”
The vaginal canal can be of different shapes and sizes. In fact, it can change throughout the day. But when the vagina is shallower than normal, you can experience pain during intercourse, menstruation, and more. But what is a shallow vagina, and how do you know if you have one?
What is a Shallow Vagina?
The average length of the vaginal canal is usually between three and six inches. That’s roughly the length of your hand. Every woman can have different shapes and sizes, and your vagina will undergo many changes from puberty to menopause. But even still, it stays within that normal range.
If you have a vagina that’s less than three inches, it’s considered shallow. That means that it doesn’t have the depth to accommodate much penetration.
Do I Have a Shallow Vagina?
Women asking themselves, “Do I have a shallow vagina?” must consider their experiences and sensations to determine the answer. There are a few telltale signs that your vagina might be shallower than normal.
The most obvious symptom is pain during intercourse. Because there’s not enough depth, you may feel:
- Resistance upon insertion
- Throbbing pain during intercourse
- Burning sensations in the groin area
- Increased and persistent discomfort
- Deep pain with movement
Similar symptoms may arise when inserting tampons. Some women also experience major issues without an element of penetration. For example, a shallow vagina can prevent normal menstruation or make natural vaginal childbirth impossible.
RELATED: What Are TheVaginal Atrophy Treatment Options?
Causes of a Shallow Vagina
There are many potential causes of a shallow vagina, and the exact reason for this issue could be difficult to pinpoint. In many cases, it’s something women are born with. It’s a matter of genetics. Conditions like a tilted vagina can also be to blame.
However, it can also be a byproduct of injury or underlying medical conditions.
Women who have tearing from prior surgery or childbirth may develop scar tissue that affects the vaginal canal. Hormones can be the culprit, too. Changing hormones due to pregnancy or menopause can cause the vaginal tissue to shrink as it becomes become dryer and thinner, making it feel as if the vagina is shallower than it used to be.
Various medical conditions can be among the causes of a shallow vagina. Infections and radiation therapy can cause vaginal stenosis, which causes tough scar tissue to form. Fibroids, the non-cancerous tumors that affect an estimated 80 percent of women, can cause issues by bulging into the wall of the vaginal canal. Women can also develop involuntary tensions, a problem referred to as Vaginismus.
Shallow Vagina Treatment
It’s important to seek guidance from a gynecologist whenever you encounter pain or accompanying symptoms of a shallow vagina. Regardless of the cause, there are treatment options available. What’s right for you will depend on the root cause of the issue, but here are a few common methods for treating a shallow vagina.
Vaginal Rejuvenation
Vaginal rejuvenation is one of the best shallow vagina treatment options available. It’s versatile, and a seasoned vaginal surgeon like Dr. Michael Tahery can take different approaches to address your unique issues. Depending on the cause of your shallow vagina, your doctor can perform procedures to counteract dryness, repair or remove tissue, and more.
Pelvic Floor Exercises
Pelvic floor exercises, or Kegels, are effective shallow vagina treatments. The vaginal canal is a tube-shaped muscle. Like any other muscle, exercises can keep it healthy. For those with shallow vaginas, an ongoing routine may elongate the vagina while strengthening pelvic floor muscles.
Hormone Therapy
This therapy can address causes of a shallow vagina that revolve around hormonal issues. It’s a great option for those dealing with discomfort and vaginal dryness as they go through perimenopause or menopause. Hormone therapy can increase vaginal moisture, reversing the shrinkage that makes the vagina feel shallower than it used to be.
Are you dealing with pain and asking, “Do I have a shallow vagina?” If so, don’t hesitate to reach out to the office of Dr. Michael Tahery. Individualized treatment that caters to your needs is key, and Dr. Tahery has the experience to find the shallow vagina treatment that’s right for you. A board-certified OB/GYN with over 20 years of helping women in Los Angeles and the surrounding areas, Dr. Tahery has the knowledge and expertise to help you. To learn more and discuss your concerns, contact our offices today to schedule your appointment.