It goes without saying that your body goes through tremendous changes during pregnancy and childbirth. After seeing the effects pregnancy can have on your body, it is only natural to consider what giving birth might mean for your vagina. While conversations about pregnancy are far more open and frank these days than they once were, this is still an area that is often overlooked.
If you have ever wondered what the after-effects of a vaginal delivery will be, read on, and we’ll share what you need to know.
Dryness
During pregnancy your body produces far higher levels of hormones than normal, and once you give birth your estrogen levels will likely reduce dramatically. As estrogen is one of the ways your vagina stays lubricated, this may well lead to postnatal dryness.
Soreness
During labor, the perineum (the area between your vagina and your anus) can tear. This is, understandably, a painful experience, and can lead to soreness for some time after birth. Ice packs, witch hazel pads, sitz baths and even lidocaine numbing sprays can help soothe the pain.
Discharge
Lochia is the residual blood, mucus and tissue that makes up postnatal vaginal discharge, for four to six weeks after giving birth. It is totally normal, but can be an extremely heavy flow, and will need managing with specific postnatal underwear and pads.
More scar tissue
Scar tissue in your vagina is an unfortunate consequence of tearing during vaginal delivery. The scar tissue will heal over time, but in can cause some discomfort initially, particularly during sex.
Urinary incontinence
Giving birth can put a strain on your pelvic floor, and make it harder for you to control your bladder. As a result, after giving birth you may find yourself leaking pee at awkward moments, particularly exercising, laughing or coughing!
Heavier or lighter menstrual cycles
Being pregnant does all sorts of strange things to your hormone balance, and it can be a while after birth before your periods go back to normal, especially if you are breastfeeding. Periods after birth can be both lighter and heavier, depending on your estrogen levels.
Widening of the vaginal canal
Unsurprisingly, having stretched to fit your baby’s head, your vagina may end up a little wider than it used to be. Vaginal muscles may be a little weaker too, and these can be strengthened by regular kegel exercises.
Changes in orgasm
Changes in your pelvic floor muscles can lead to changes in your orgasms, for better and for worse. If your pelvic floor has weakened, they may feel less intense, but the reverse can also be true. Again, kegel exercises can help restore intensity and repair pelvic floor damage.
Occasional pelvic organ prolapse
Although this is an extremely rare occurrence, a pelvic organ prolapse is a possibility after a difficult birth. If you do experience prolapse, there are plenty of gynecologists in Orlando to contact who can provide support and assistance.
Visual changes
Finally, it is possible that your vagina may look different after the birth of your child. Some women say that they notice a larger outward appearance, and it is also possible for the vulva to change color slightly. As with all vagina changes after birth, this is perfectly normal and natural, and may well disappear over time.
