Postpartum

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Hi

So FTM and my baby is 6 weeks old.

I had a really difficult birth that ended with episiotomy and forceps with 3 1/2 hours of pushing.
As a result I was pretty sore down there. My episiotomy looks all healed now but when I cough or sneeze it hurts! I have a weak bladder which I expected and am doing pelvic floor exercises.
I am just worried if I should still feel generally sore down there like achy (though I've looked and all looks healed)?

I have my check with the doctor in 3 weeks time.

Thank you

Congrats on your new baby!

I had a similar birth with forceps, partial episiotomy and then ended up having a stage 3 tear. I still felt very sore at 6 weeks I recall, it took a while to all heal and to feel more 'normal' down there. I was also referred to a pelvic floor physio due to the tear, but if you feel you would benefit you could ask your Dr if that's possible for you too. It did wonders for me, my pelvic floor was virtually non existent when it came to bladder control for many weeks after birth. In the meantime, pelvic floor exercises and take it easy until you have your Dr appt x

My first I had a second degree tear and it took me about 18 months before I stopped feeling discomfort. I think it’s all the inside bits as well that take longer to heal

Congratulations!

I had forceps and episiotomy. 2 weeks PP the stitches became infected. If you're concerned, go to your doctor. For me the infection was quite acute; one day it just hurt when I walked and when I sat down and I knew 'this isn't right.' The nurse took a look that evening, just a glance, said 'yup, infected' and the doctor sent me home with the right meds.

Best of luck!

Thank you for responses it has made me feel more at ease that recovery takes time and not to rush things.
This week has been much better the aching has decreased and I've started implementing some pelvic floor exercises!