Expert: Norman Solberg - 5/30/2009

Question
Hi there, I woke up and showered this morning like always, and shaved 'down there'. I noticed that my clitoris was very sensitive to touch and swollen/firm (and no I'm not "in the mood". It is still sensitive and swollen tonight. There are no other symptoms. Might it be related to my period? It started on the 26, and is somewhat abnormal. It comes on a regular basis, but I spot for a few days before, then for the past few months I bleed a day or two, then it almost stops for a few hours, then I get cramps, go to the restroom, and pass a clot. I dont bleed a whole lot after that.
What's the problem!! And what can I do?

Answer
Hi Julie,
I doubt that it's related to your period, because even though it's somewhat abnormal, the same basic changes happen every month.  It may be a reaction to something, either that came in contact with the clitoris (such as soap) or to something you've taken in (medicine or food).  Occasionally there will be an infection in the clitoris area, so if it gets worse or persists, I would get checked by a doctor.  Another possible cause is a yeast infection, but you'd almost always have itching with that.  You might put a cold pack on it for a while.  Hopefully it will go away on its own soon.