Postpartum Episiotomy Pain: Recovery & Healing
QuestionI have a 2 1/2 year old son. My labor was difficult and they had to use a vacuum and I had an episiotomy. It was very painful, we didn't even attempt sex for about 5 months because I was still in pain. I don't know the extent but I know that it was bad because it seemed the doctor had a hard time stitching me up. and he told my husband that "its not usually this bad". I don't have anything else to go by because this was my first baby. Anyway my question to you is this... I still don't feel "right". I don't know how to describe it other than it is an uncomfortable pressure that gets worse if I have to stand for longer than 20 minutes or so. Is this normal since I had such a hard delivery?
AnswerIf it has been more than 5 months since the birth of your baby, the episiotomy should have completely healed by now. If you are still having discomfort or a "funny" feeling or pressure in the area, you should have it checked out by a gynecologist to see if you have healed correctly. YOu may have had a fourth degree laceration (into your rectal mucosa) or the sphincter muscle may have been damaged. Check it out. If an abnormality is found, it can be corrected. There is no reason to suffer.
