QuestionHi, I delivered my son 4 weeks ago, and had a second degree tear. The doctor sewed me up, but I have noticed something unusual for me. Sorry if this seems a little gross to explain. When I urinate, the stream is thicker and seems to aim further back than before delivery. I noticed this when having to give a urine sample and had to quickly adjust where the specimen cup was held compared to all those times I had to give samples during pregnancy. Also, when I finally got the courage to check out my stitches, I noticed an unfamiliar small open area immedietly below my vagina. I am concerned that the doctor didn't stitch me up enough or that my stitches came apart at the top (although there is no pain). I did have a large baby for me, though. I am petite, and had an 8lb 6oz baby. Could my vagina be that stretched out that it altered my urine stream and exposed an unfamiliar part of my anatomy? This is my second child (both vaginal deliveries), and I had an episiotomy with my first. I did not notice these issues with my first, although she was only 6lbs 15oz. I go back to my doctor in two weeks for an IUD placement, but in another three weeks from now, I will be moving. If I need to be sewn up more, will that affect being able to have the IUD put in? Thank you so much for your time, and I appreciate any insight you may have on all this.
AnswerHolly,
Since this is your second child, I'm sure I don't have to tell you how things change down there forever. This was a much bigger baby this time and you were stretched out more. Your muscle tone has changed now. Your urethral opening could have gotten strained. It may or may not go back to what it was previously.
The small vaginal opening is possible, but since you are not actively bleeding from the site, I doubt that you need more sewing. I don't think your doctor would want to cause you the pain to restitch you. You can talk to your OB and discuss it with them. Good luck and congratulations!
