Vaginal Tearing: What You Need to Know and How to Prevent It
Vaginal Tearing During Delivery Is Not Limited to Childbirth Alone
Let's address the elephant in the room. Yes, sometimes vaginal tissues can tear, but it's not something to shy away from discussing. Here's a lowdown on why this happens and what you can do about it.
When You Might Experience Vaginal Tearing
Tearing is common during the first vaginal birth (known as obstetric tears), but they typically affect the perineum, the area between the vagina and rectum. Other occasions when tearing can occur are uncommon and may result from friction during cycling or any activity that involves narrow, hard surfaces. Vaginal irritation and microscopic tears can also stem from poor hygiene, objects like tampons or razors, or your favorite skinny jeans.
However, the most frequent cause of non-obstetrical vaginal tearing is sex, according to Anna Shope, M.D, an expert at UW Medicine Primary Care at Shoreline.
Why Sex Can Cause Vaginal Tears
Arousal sets off a series of subtle bodily adjustments, warming up the vagina, swelling the labia, and producing lubrication. But factors such as hormonal fluctuations, stress, alcohol, or certain medications can interfere with this process, reducing the production of vaginal lubrication and increasing the chance of tearing.
Preventing Vaginal Tears During Sex
Here's how to reduce the risk of tearing:
- Get in the Mood: Arousal significantly enhances lubrication and comfort during sex.
- Extensive Foreplay: Give your body time to prepare by allowing anticipation to build.
- Use Plenty of Lubricant: Apply lubricant liberally during foreplay and reapply if necessary.
- Proceed Slowly and Keep it Wet: Embrace a steady, gentle approach, and don't neglect to keep it wet.
- Control the Depth and Pace: Choose positions that allow you to control the angle and speed of penetration.
Remember, sex should never cause pain.
Caring for a Vaginal Tear
If you experience pain, bleeding, or notice a burning sensation when urinating, you may need medical attention. However, if the tear appears superficial, follow these steps:
- Clean the Area: Treat a vaginal tear like any other injury, maintaining gentle care.
- Apply a Warm Compress: This can help reduce pain and promote healing.
- Monitor and Address Infection: Keep an eye out for signs of infection, seeking medical help if necessary.
It's beautiful how quickly the vagina and vulva heal due to abundant blood flow. With proper care and attention, most minor tears will heal in no time.
In light of the discussion on vaginal tearing, it's worth mentioning that sex, according to Dr. Anna Shope, is a common cause of non-obstetrical vaginal tearing. Furthermore, to prevent such tears during sexual activity, measures such as preparing your body through relaxation and foreplay, using plenty of lubricant, taking it slow, and controlling the depth and pace can be effective.
