Painful sex after childbirth and vaginal reconstruction

[87Rose]

Hi all - I'm wondering I can get some advice from others who may have been through a similar thing.

I gave birth to my twins vaginally two years ago. I had an episiotomy, a few tears and grazes. A year after their birth I still didn't feel right - sex was painful and I had a lot of scar tissue. Finally I saw a gynaecologist who confirmed I had been sewn up incorrectly and the inside of my vagina was effectively on the outside!

I had reconstructive surgery 4 months ago and it looks a lot better. However, sex is now even more painful than it was before, making it impossible. I know we just need to keep trying, going slowly, using lube etc but that doesn't seem to be working. Has anyone been through the same and what did you do?

To make matters worse I have been diagnosed with premature ovarian failure, which means I'm perimenopausal and therefore quite dry down there, so am having sort out medication for that. It would be great to hear any tips for both these issues - am at the end of my tether. Excuse long post!

Hi op. Not the same as I didn't need to surgery but I did have physio and it really helped. Could that be an option? X

Was also going to suggest physio.

I would probably get a second opinion from another gynae just to check that everything IS ok. I had reconstruction and sex afterwards was much better (ie actually possible whereas it had not been pre surgery due to the pain). It may look ok but if it doesn’t feel ok then I would suggest you investigate further. (If you’re anywhere near London I can give you a name - he’s a pelvic floor specialist.)

I’d get checked again to make sure everything is ok down there. :(

Thank you for the physio suggestion - what did it involve please, and did you have this on the NHS?

Thank you for the physio suggestion - what did it involve please, and did you have this on the NHS?

I'm also going to chip in, ask GP about Vagifem. Helped with my peri menopause

I would go back and talk to your GP about options. I would talk to them about getting a second gynae opinion, your physio options and other treatments that they can suggest.

Before I had surgery my gp prescribed an oestrogen cream that can apparently help with soreness and dryness. It might be an option to try at least in the short term.

I am now seeing a private women's health physio recommended by a friend as although surgery helped a lot I sex is still uncomfortable. I am hoping this will help with this and a couple of other issues. I don't know whether/how you get this physio on the NHS. I got fed up of going back GP and others with same problem. Felt like I wasn't getting any where and that i was wasting their time and mine. I am not saying you are or should feel like that. Not sure I should either for that matter. The physio has given me new hope.

I'm sorry not sure how helpful that was but what I am trying to say is there are a few options to look at and good luck.

Hi BumboBaggins. Thanks for your message. I would love to get the name of the specialist you mention if you could send it over? Thank you