Answer: Other young women who have explored "fingering" have reported the same. Sexual arousal and pleasure at the time of the activity may mask pain or discomfort, or there may not be pain at the time, but the tissues may become irritated, as a result of too much friction and pressure. The irritation may not become apparent until several hours later. It takes time for the body's defenses to react to the irritation. This is evident by the swelling, redness, and soreness, as blood collects in the area to deliver the mechanisms of healing and protection. The nicks and cuts are likely the result of long fingernails, or rough and sharp edges on them.
Your boyfriend and yourself may have gotten a little carried away, and you need to make him aware of this. When engaging in genital and vaginal stimulation it is "always" advisable to apply extra lubrication, even if you are wet as a result of vaginal lubrication. Use a lubricant such as Astroglide, light mineral oil, KY jelly, or natural oils such as flaxseed, Vitamin E, olive, vegetable, etc. Be aware that the use of products containing petroleum and oil can increase the risk of vaginal infections, when used inside the vagina, but there is no way to predict how your body will react to its use. Try them, but if you experience an infection, do not use them again. Caution: Oil based products cannot be used with latex condoms, as they cause them to break down.
Examine your boyfriend's hands and fingers before he touches your vulva and vagina, ensuring they are clean, his fingernails are trimmed, and there are no rough or sharp edges. You may need to have him trim his nails or file away any rough and sharp edges. Prior to your next sexual experience together, let him know your expectations regarding the care of his hands. If his skin is rough, you will need to use latex or vinyl surgical gloves. Most stores carry these near the first aid supplies, $10 or less should buy a box of 100. Also encourage your boyfriend to go slower and be gentler, the vulva can be very sensitive to irritation.
It is not unusual for there to be minor injuries to the vulva and vagina during sexual activities, and there are no lasting health risks associated with them. Injuries that result in bleeding do increase the risk of transmitting sexually transmitted diseases, when body fluids are exchanged, i.e., penile/vaginal or penile/anal contact. This is not true when using the hands to stimulate the genitals, unless there are open cuts on the hands.
To care for your irritated vulva, rinse it with plain water, wear loose fitting clothing like a dress or skirt, do not wear underwear or if you do, ensure they are made of 100% cotton and do not fit tightly, apply a little olive oil between the folds of your vulva to lubricate the irritated tissues, and sleep nude or at least bare bottomed. Allow your vulva to heal prior to your next sexual experience.