Vaginismus and giving birth

[K2012]

A bit embarrassing topic but for those with vaginismus and especially severe vaginismus how did you give birth? Vaginally or c-section? How did it go? Please share your experiences. Thank you in advance

Hi, I have vaginismus although not severe. I thought I would want a c section but in the end went for it naturally. It wasn’t great to be honest but I can’t say whether my vaginismus had anything to do with it.

I do feel strongly though that I will push for a c section next time. I struggled with my vaginismus after birth more severely then I had done for a while and i hadn’t really thought about that consequence from the trauma of childbirth.

Perhaps something like hypnobirthing would be helpful for you OP? Have you discussed your vaginismus with your midwife?

Hi @Crimblecrumble1990 Thank you for your reply. I mentioned it to my community midwife first time I met her, she didn’t really say anything about giving birth etc. and we haven’t discussed it since.
My gynae consultant mentioned it and asked if I had thought about how I want to give birth as vaginal birth can be very painful as midwives have to put fingers in you etc. to check how much you have dilated and he said it can be very uncomfortable. So just wanted some advice here really

I have it mildly and gave birth naturally 3 years ago. I really debated on whether to have a c-section or try naturally and I’m really glad I went for it.

Birth was very straightforward but fast. I was 7cm dilated when I arrived at hospital and didn’t feel any real discomfort during the initial midwife exam. I had a water birth so other than the first quick check I wasn’t touched by her again until after I’d had DS.

I had stitches afterwards but again, no other internal examinations, just a quick visual check of stitches.

Obviously we don’t know what type of birth we’ll have until we’re in the midst of it but a vaginal birth doesn’t necessarily mean lots of internal examinations.

Also, I’ve found that my condition has improved since giving birth.

I regret not mentioning it to my midwife and I had so many internal checks in labour which could have just been avoided. I ended up having a c section I think due to the stress of the checks and general lack of progression. I've heard natural can be fine though as long as they don't keep checking you. Just be open and honest about it. I wish you the best!

Also the csection was great in comparison to all the checks and stress of labour, but all due to my environment I think. There are some online groups that may be more helpful for this.

And it's not embarrassing- we should talk about it more :)

Have you ever sought hypnotherapy as treatment? I only say that because I did years ago and it’s transformed my life. I just had a natural birth and the midwife was very gentle and only performed two examinations the whole time, which weren’t painful at all. Also, this is not embarrassing at all to talk about xxx

Definitely mention it so it can go on your notes and everyone involved is aware x