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Women's health

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Embarrassing issue - can a doctor help me?

4 replies

Goldendinoroar · 20/05/2021 19:14

I’ve given birth by c section twice. Each time I’ve been left with an overhang so big that The fold covers the whole of the front of my vulva even after getting back to pre pregnancy weight and an average bmi

I decided that because this was last baby I would do my best to fix this as I am so self conscious that I no longer go to swimming, or wear a swimsuit on holiday and had getting undressed in front of my husband now.
In fact I won’t even look at myself

January this year I started running. I built up to doing 50-55km per week and totally overhauled my eating (even though I’m at an ok bmi), I thought this would at least help me to fix my shape a bit and reduce the overhang.

It’s now 5 months and 1 week later and my overhang is still dreadful but what’s even worse is that I’m constantly suffering with yeast infections under it because of the exercise I do.

I use talc and all sorts of creams and remedies and make sure I’m wearing sweat wicking clothes but it’s just getting worse now the weather is warming up and it’s putting me off running

I can’t afford a tummy tuck.

What else can I do?

Is there anything a doctor can do to help?

I’m so ashamed of my body it gets me so down I just wish I could be proud of what it’s done for me but it’s causing such discomfort I hate it

OP posts:
Hardertobreathe · 20/05/2021 20:49

They would be able to help with a prescription re the infections but not re getting rid of the overhang I’m afraid.
It’s still not very long ago since you had your baby, your body has been through a huge amount but you should be proud of it carrying and bringing two little ones into the world Flowers I don’t know a single mum who doesn’t hate their tummy, we really shouldn’t think like that -but we do.

If you really think a tummy tuck would solve your issue then many places do offer finance for cosmetic surgery these days. You can pay it off monthly over several years, although a bank loan may have better rates. Not ideal I know but if you are really unhappy then it might be an option.

Psychonabike · 20/05/2021 20:54

Go and see your GP.

In extreme cases you may be offered plastic surgery on the NHS.

If the overhang really is very severe, objectively, and you are otherwise in good health, a healthy weight etc, your chances are reasonable. But i expect that the majority of women are told that it is not a significant enough issue.

No harm in trying though, especially if you need to see the dr anyway for something to treat the skin problems you are getting?

Runmybathforme · 20/05/2021 21:29

I feel really sorry for you, you’ve worked so hard to get fit , but it sounds like no amount of exercise will have any effect . I don’t buy into the “ you should be proud of your body “ view at all. Yes, when it’s a few stretch marks, or the inevitable rounder tummy, but your problem sounds extreme. Your still a young woman, of course you want to look good. Realistically, the only option is surgery. Make some enquires about financing, many of the private hospitals offer this.
How does your DH feel about it ? If he’s sympathetic, and he should be, work out a plan. Knowing you have something definite to aim for may make you feel better. Best of luck.

emmathedilemma · 21/05/2021 10:15

What @Psychonabike said! Sadly I don't think any amount of exercise will get rid of excess skin and what's probably separated muscles. I don't think you should see it as embarassing, you've had 3 babies, 3 lots of major surgery and you've left with a body that's impacting your life and ability to do the things you want to do, and also causing you pain / infections and ongoing medical issues. Tell your GP what you've told us!

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