Differential Diagnosis for Shooting Pain up through the Vagina while Running
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Vulvar or vaginal strain: This is a common issue in women who engage in high-impact activities like running. The strain can cause a sudden, sharp pain, especially if the woman has a pre-existing condition such as a weak pelvic floor or poor running technique.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Ovarian cyst rupture or torsion: Although less common, ovarian cysts can rupture or twist, causing severe pain that may radiate to the vagina.
- Uterine cramps or spasms: Cramps or spasms in the uterus can cause pain that feels like it's shooting up through the vagina, especially in women with conditions like endometriosis or adenomyosis.
- Pudendal nerve irritation: The pudendal nerve runs through the pelvic area and can become irritated or compressed, causing sharp, shooting pains in the vagina.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Ectopic pregnancy: Although rare, an ectopic pregnancy can cause severe, sudden pain in the pelvic area, including the vagina. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
- Ovarian tumor or cancer: In rare cases, a tumor or cancer in the ovaries can cause severe pain that radiates to the vagina.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs that can cause severe pain, including pain that feels like it's shooting up through the vagina.
- Rare diagnoses
- Vaginal or vulvar varicosities: Varicose veins in the vagina or vulva can cause pain, especially during physical activity like running.
- Tarlov cysts: These are rare, fluid-filled cysts that can form in the spine and compress nearby nerves, causing pain that radiates to the pelvic area, including the vagina.
- Endometriosis of the vagina or vulva: In rare cases, endometriosis can occur in the vagina or vulva, causing pain, especially during physical activity like running.