Sorry in advance for oversharing. I've been stewing over this since the beginning of the year and need some perspective. I've namechanged as it's a bit embarrassing.
I have Lichen Sclerosus (a fairly rare, auto-immune, skin condition) on my vulva. It causes skin to tear and bruise easily. Labia gradually fuses together and the entrance to the vagina can seal over. eIt's also itchy and painful.
It's pretty grim and I don't recommend Googling it.
I was referred to an ob/gyn (male, prob early 50's) by my gp. There's no cure, the only treatment he would prescribe was steroid cream for the pain/itching, and monitor progress and any signs of cancer.
On my last appointmtment in Jan, Ob/gyn asked if I was managing ok re intercourse. So I admitted that I feel very self conscious about the state of my vulva, that my libido has nose dived and haven't been having sex. He advised re importance of continuing intercourse to keep the vagina open. I had no issues with this so far.
However he then said something along the lines of 'you want to stop vagina from sealing over as you might want to have sex further down the track, even if it isn't with your husband'. Then he suggested I try watching porn to get myself in the mood.
That was pretty much the end of the consultation.
So, AIBU to feel that his advice was innapropriate? I'm not prudish, and get that lots of people enjoy porn. But how is watching young, slim women with 'perfect' vaginas supposed to improve my confidence?
I'm supposed to have a check up every 6 months, but haven't been back to see him. I need to ask gp (female, but I don't like her much either) for referral else where. Do I bring this up, or am I just being oversensitive?
Again, I apologise for the intimate details. Thanks if you've managed to read to the end 