Tingling vulva and numb legs

[youaintmymother]

I've just started my period and have a heavy flow. I usually have some vulval discomfort (tingling), which I have always attributed to hormones and/or blood loss. This sensation is normal for me.

Today, I have the discomfort of the tingling, but also really uncomfortable tingling and numbness down the backs of my legs. I think it must be sciatica, but it feels like the feeling is connected to my vulva. It was so uncomfortable when I was carrying my 1yo that I had to sit down to relieve the feeling and I was worried my legs would give way.

I am thinking about speaking to the GP about it, but I won't be able to get an appointment until Monday.

Has anyone experienced anything like this?

Personally I'd consider going to A&E in case it's cauda equina, but I might be overreacting.

I had this in the first couple of days, when I had periods. I’d notice it most when standing straight, like washing up

I don't feel like it's an emergency 🤞but if it gets worse I will definitely give 111 a call. I read that the next sign of cauda equina is severe lower back pain. Hopefully, the tingling and numbness is as bad as it gets!

It's definitely worse standing up. It was worse holding the baby too, which I suppose must be the extra weight. Was there anything you could do to relieve it? I'm 40 and this is the first time I've ever had it in my legs like this. 😢

If it is not emergency then call 111, that is what 111 is for. The emergency number is 999. I know someone who had that tingling / numbness for years. She’s in a wheelchair now. Would have been treatable if she’d got a mri when the symptoms started. I hope your problem is minor but I think you’re crazy to be on Mumsnet/google when you should be calling 111. It’s your long term mobility you’re gambling with. You need a mri to make sure it’s not cauda equina.

If you have tingling / numbness in your legs then you have a problem with your nerve, the only question is what type of problem you have.

Good luck!

The vulva and legs have nerves from the sacral plexus especially S2,3,4.
give 111 a call, and take note of whether weeing or pooping are affected... good luck

Any continence issues? Even slight leakage/ diarrhoea?

Please call 111. Numbness or loss of function in the 'saddle region' and legs can denote cauda equina. As PP says, the sacral nerves supply the genitals, bottom and down the legs. Could be nothing but it can lead to permanent paralysis. No point chancing it.

Hi, did you find out what was causing it. I hope it went well. I’m now in the somewhat similar position. Also have heavy bleeding and bad back but dreading it may be something else.

You've had a baby, I'd say back issues I had them after every pregnancy. Go to GP.