Why is my right lymph node between my legs swollen and painful?

For three days now, my lymph node has been swollen. I am 18 years old, on birth control. My menstrual cycle has been screwed around with for the last three months. My gyno wanted to relieve me of cramps so we tried different ways of taking the pill. Nothing seemed to work for me so this month I just took the pill regularly, the proper way. I got my period yesterday. I have really bad cramps. When I saw this swollen thing, I went and took a pregnancy test. It was negative. I'm worried I may have stds? But I don't believe I could since my partner is clean. And I have only slept with one guy. I just have many thoughts going through my head. Why is my lymph node so painful and swollen? Period? Pregnancy? Stds? Infection? wHAT? I'm worried... Or does this just have to do with my period? Because the swelling and pain started when I stopped taking the medicated pills and started the sugar pills

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!
A swollen lymph node is usually a sign of infection somewhere.  If the node is in the groin, it could be infection in the genital area or even the leg or foot.  You may want to check for a boil or infected cut ect.  If you were my patient, I would probably also check for STDS including herpes 2.  That is one that commonly causes large swollen glands.
Your gynecologist could certainly do this for you.

Usually lymph nodes only persist for a few days. If it is larger than 1 cm ( 1/2 inch) or if it persists longer than a week, or especially if it grows in size, you should definitely check in with your doctor!

Good luck!
Dr B