Post episiotomy - reduced sexual feelings?

[Musttryharder2021]

I had an episiotomy (I'm not sure which grade) which appears to be healing well. I'm now 4weeks post-partum and have attempted to be intimate (no penetration) with my partner. To my shock, and not being told by any healthcare professional explicitly, I've noticed my sexual responsiveness and the ability to reach an orgasm to be greatly reduced. I'd describe the feeling to be 'muted' and 'weakened' response and climax. It was extremely disappointing to feel like this, and puts me off engaging in sexual activities altogether. This isn't what my response was like during pregnancy or even beforehand.

Does it improve?? Is this potential nerve damage?? I was told to start doing Level exercises but I believe that's for improving urine continence (I don't have any issues/concerns around this), so I'm not sure if these exercises would be helpful for my issue.

Can anyone relate?! TIA.

*Kegel exercises rather!

Yeah an episiotomy killed off the area where they cut so I don't really feel penetration there anymore. 26 years later its just the same. Wish I'd got it seen too at the time

However you're not describing that. Your area has taken a battering, I'd expect it to still be bruised and swollen at 4 weeks in. If in 6 months, you're not happy, go and ask for it sorting.

@gamerchick

Thank you for your response and advice. I'm sorry your injury hasn't healed all these years later. It's so rubbish. Obviously I'm grateful for a healthy baby etc but didn't realise the damage afterwards could be so severe and long lasting.

What I will share though. Is all the external area and clitoral stuff does go back to what you're used to. It'll just be a bit numb after having a baby bash against in on the way out.

However if you get pain on penetration and it doesn't improve and there's lack of sensation then don't wait. Kick up a fuss to get the scar tissue sorted early on.

It's been 4 weeks. I did a mental crossing of my legs at the thought. it'll sort itself out.

At 4 weeks pp your oestrogen levels will probably still be lower the pre conception, it's a hormone that can have a big effect on sexual response. Don't hesitate in asking for help if it persists though op , and don't accept it if your are told that's it's normal.

Thanks @Thissucksmonkeynuts
I'll keep an eye out on things