Short Vagina and Dilators - Hystersisters Hysterectomy Article

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Short Vagina and Dilators

Short Vagina and Dilators

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Ask A Doctor

My hysterectomy left me with a very short vagina, and sex is painful and embarrassing now. Is this normal, and is there anything I can do?

A shortened vagina and painful intercourse are very normal after some types of hysterectomies, and there is no reason for you to be embarrassed. Many women report painful intercourse after their hysterectomies, and there are a few things you can try that might alleviate some of your pain.

Some doctors recommend yoga or pilates to keep your pelvic muscles flexible and strong while gently stretching scar tissue. Your doctor might also recommend using dilators, which are medical devices that stretch your vaginal tissue a little at a time to restore elasticity and length. They usually come in sets of graduated sizes so that the patient can start with the smallest and move up in size as the discomfort eases. Most doctors recommend using them daily if you are not having frequent intercourse. There is a video about vaginal dilators on the HysterSisters site; click "Videos" and search for "Dilators" to watch it.

Try to overcome your embarrassment and speak frankly with your sexual partner. Ask him to be gentle during intercourse and to understand your fears and discomfort. Frequent intercourse, if you can tolerate it, can help to keep scar tissue more supple and flexible, easing your discomfort sooner.

This content was written by staff of HysterSisters.com by non-medical professionals based on discussions, resources and input from other patients for the purpose of patient-to-patient support.

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Recommended for Hysterectomy Recovery

The HysterSisters Store has gathered products made specifically for your recovery from surgery. Here are the best sellers we can recommend to help you:

The Great Binder Set - We have made it very easy for you and combined the two best binders and the Silky Sac into a great set to save you money! Our favorite is the Perfect Pocket binder with cold/hot packs!
Deluxe Hyst Prep Set - As you plan, we've gathered the best products into one set for special pricing.
Post-Op Panty - These great panties speed recovery, and reduces scarring. They contain a medical-grade silicone panel over incision to reduce scar's apperance while they provide support to weakened muscles and tissues from surgery. Excellent!
Softest Bra Ever - When you want to wear something, but feel nothing. This is the softest bra ever, in microfiber with no hardware or tags to chafe or dig! The comfort-ribbed underband stays in place gently, so it is perfect for sleeping and lounging.
HysterSisters Accessory Kit - Are you a HysterSisters fan? This set has a fun collection of HysterSisters items.
Very Private Moisture - Once your doctor gives you the green light for intimacy, this is the stuff! This is a best selling product with a high rate of permanent, satisfied, repeat customers! Relieves vaginal dryness instantly, protects tissue & enhances intimacy. "Buy it for the problem, use it for the pleasure."

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Find A Doctor Near You

Brad Cohen, M.D. 2477 Route 516 Suite 103 Old Bridge NJ 08857 732-679-6900	Jennifer Fuson, M.D. 1720 Nicholasville Road Suite 702 Lexington KY 40503 859-264-8811	Sean Kossari, M.D. 14901 Rinaldi Street Suite 320 Mission Hills CA 91345 818-365-1616
Jonathan Y Song, M.D. 2455 Dean St. Suite A St. Charles IL 60175 (630) 513-9160	Quanita Crable, M.D. 8160 Walnut Hill Lane Ste. LL-001 Dallas TX 75231 (469)364-3764	Susan Carter, M.D. North Colorado Medical Center/ MCR 1800 15th Street, Suite 220 Greeley CO 80631 970 353 1335
Charles Miller, M.D. 120 Osler Drive Suite 100 Naperville IL 60540 630-428-2229	Marshall Bovelsky, M.D. 200 Banning St Suite 320 Dover DE 19904 302-674-0223	Siobhan Kehoe, M.D. Gynecological Oncology Clinic - SW Med 2201 Inwood Road Suite 106 Dallas TX 75390 214-645-4673

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