I feel elongated vagina after unexpected abortion at 20 weeks. Is this due to vaginal trauma?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I am 34 years old and would like guidance regarding some physical and emotional changes I have been experiencing. In May 2020, I underwent an abortion at 20 weeks. My primary doctor explained that such procedures can sometimes cause trauma to the vaginal area, which I was not aware of at the time.
Since then, I have noticed several changes. My vagina feels slightly longer, and I observe a small amount of skin protrusion. Additionally, my breasts have become smaller and softer, which I understand may be related to hormonal changes. These physical changes have affected my mental health and contributed to feelings of depression.
Sexual activity is not painful, but it does feel different, and I am uncertain about how to address these concerns. I would greatly appreciate professional guidance on how to manage both the physical and emotional aspects of these changes.
Please help.
Thank you very much for your time and guidance.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
First and foremost, I want to acknowledge the mental and physical distress you have experienced as a result of your 20-week abortion. I recognize that you may have built a link with your baby, and going through such a process is undoubtedly a huge stress, both physically and emotionally. I studied the information you provided and empathize with your situation. While this is commonly regarded as a late-term abortion, please know that your body and mind are strong, and you are OK.
Regarding your concerns:
Your doctor is correct: such a technique causes trauma to your body. During pregnancy, vaginal tissues relax to prepare for delivery, which might make the vagina feel different afterward. Although you believe your vagina has enlarged, this is usually due to hormonal fluctuations and tissue relaxation rather than lasting structural changes. Most women feel their vaginal tissues recovering to pre-pregnancy state within six to12 weeks; it may take longer for some. Kegel exercises can improve pelvic floor strength, which has a greater impact on vaginal tightness than canal width alone.
Minor skin protrusions are frequent and usually dissolve on their own as the tissues recover over the next several weeks. There is no reason to be concerned at this point.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy or abortion are predicted to result in smaller, softer breasts. These alterations are normally transient, but some variations in breast tissue may persist.
It is typical to suffer mood fluctuations or feelings of depression following such an event. Emotional support from trustworthy friends, family, or a mental health professional can be very beneficial.
Additional questions for your consideration:
- Have your menstrual cycles resumed following the procedure?
- How's the flow been, and have you observed any blood clots?
- Have you talked to your gynecologist about birth control or other post-procedure care?
Self-care recommendations:
- Maintain a nutritious diet.
- Allow yourself enough rest.
- For at least six months, do not plan another pregnancy.
- To lower the risk of illness, limit your exposure to busy settings.
- Seek emotional support from friends, family, or a counsellor.
You are doing great, and most physical and emotional changes will gradually return to normal over the next few weeks. Please continue to monitor your healing and notify your doctor if you observe any persistent or worsening symptoms.
I hope this helps.
Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
Thank you so much for your response. It was very heartfelt and helpful, and it has eased some of my anxiety.
I do have some ongoing concerns. Since my procedure, I have lost weight from 209 lbs to 195 lbs, which makes my clothes feel a bit looser, but I am taking it easy and trying not to worry too much.
My doctor mentioned that my vagina suffered trauma, so I understand that some of the changes, such as the small amount of tissue protruding, may take time to improve or may not fully return to exactly how it was. I now understand that healing is gradual.
I felt fine initially, but a few weeks after my procedure, I began experiencing anxiety when I noticed that my breasts had become softer and smaller, and my vagina felt and looked slightly different.
I attended my follow-up appointment about two weeks after the procedure. The doctor performed an internal sonogram and said everything looked perfect, though no physical examination of the vagina was done. I waited a total of three weeks before resuming sexual activity. I feel sad that, had I known my vagina might feel longer or look different, I might have waited longer, but I was unaware at the time.
I had my first period following the procedure, which lasted six days with a regular flow and no clots or heavy bleeding. I also started birth control as prescribed by my doctor during my follow-up appointment.
Emotionally, I am still processing a lot. The changes in my body, smaller breasts and a different feeling in my vagina, have affected my self-image and made me feel less feminine at times, which contributes to anxiety and sadness. My doctor reassured me that my body is still adjusting physically and emotionally, and advised me to take it easy. She also recommended waiting six to nine months before trying for another child, which feels daunting given my concerns about my body and sexuality.
I truly appreciate all the information and guidance you have provided.
Thank you.
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
I am glad I could offer some guidance, and I want to reassure you that you are a wonderful woman with a heart of gold. Please try not to worry; your body will gradually return to normal over time.
I would like to offer one piece of advice: you are already a mother of two, and raising children requires both time and resources. At 34, and considering your current weight and recent physical and emotional recovery, another pregnancy at this time could carry higher risks. Unless there is a very strong reason, I would encourage you to carefully reconsider the timing of expanding your family.
Regarding your concerns about your vagina and breasts, rest assured that they will gradually return to their pre-pregnancy state. Your menstrual cycles appear normal, which is also reassuring.
For now, I suggest focusing on spending quality time with your two children and enjoying life over the next year. If you decide to consider another pregnancy in the future, pre-pregnancy counseling can provide valuable guidance and support.
Please remember that I am always here for any questions or help you may need. Take care.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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