Sometimes, as women, we have health issues that are hard to talk about, but we suffer a lot on the inside. One such issue is chronic pain in the vagina, especially near the vaginal opening. This burning and pain can occur during sex, when using a tampon, and even when wearing tight clothing. If this condition is affecting your daily life and your happiness, now is the best time to talk to a doctor about it.
Simply put, what is Vestibulectomy?
Vestibulectomy is a surgical procedure that removes tissue around the opening of the vagina that is causing you pain. It is not done for all vaginal pain. It is specifically done for a condition called vestibulodynia . Some people also call it vulvar vestibulitis . Simply put, this condition occurs when the tissue around the opening of the vagina (vestibule) becomes hypersensitive, causing inflammation and pain even with the slightest touch.
Usually, before recommending this surgery, doctors try other treatments such as creams and pills. Only if those fail to work will they consider this surgery.
The most important thing is to talk openly with your doctor, find out exactly what condition you have, and choose the most appropriate treatment for it.
What are the main types of this surgery?
Vestibulectomy surgery can be divided into two main types. Your doctor will determine which type is right for you based on the nature of your pain and how widespread it is.
| Type of surgery | A short description |
|---|---|
| Partial Vestibulectomy (partial removal) | This involves removing only the area of tissue that is painful. For example, if there is pain on only one side of the vagina, only that side of the vagina is removed. |
| Complete Vestibulectomy | In this, the painful tissue around the vaginal opening (vestibule) is completely removed. |
How do you prepare before surgery?
Before this surgery, your doctor will give you all the advice you need.
- Discussion with the doctor: Before the surgery, the doctor will talk to you and ask about your complete medical history, allergies, and medications you are currently taking. This is also a good time to ask any questions you may have about the surgery and the recovery period.
- Tests: You may need to have a blood test (CBC - Complete Blood Count) to see if you are in a healthy condition for surgery.
- Fasting: Depending on the anesthesia used for the surgery, your doctor will tell you how many hours before the surgery you should not eat or drink.
- Location: This is an outpatient surgery, usually performed in a hospital operating room.
What happens during surgery?
Necessary steps will be taken to ensure that you do not feel any pain during the surgery.
Anesthesia
You can choose the anesthesia method based on your preferences and the nature of the surgery.
1. Local Anesthesia: Only the area where the surgery is performed is numbed. You are conscious.
2. General Anesthesia: You will be put completely to sleep. You will not remember anything about the surgery.
3. Regional Anesthesia: An injection into the spine numbs the area below the waist. You are conscious, but do not feel pain.
Steps of the surgery
Simply put, this is what happens.
- After you are anesthetized, the surgeon will make a small incision on either side of the vaginal opening (or the area where the pain is) and remove the painful tissue.
- Then, the incision is closed with dissolvable stitches that dissolve over time.
This entire process usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
Things to take care of after surgery
Although you will be able to go home after the surgery, you may have some pain and swelling in the area for a few days or weeks. This is normal.
- Pain Management: Take painkillers as prescribed by your doctor to control pain. Applying ice packs can help reduce swelling and pain.
- Wound care: Follow your doctor's instructions carefully on how to keep the wound clean.
- Restrictions: You will usually need to avoid sexual intercourse, using tampons, and swimming for a few weeks . Your doctor will also advise you about bathing and other activities.
- Medical check-up: You should see your doctor again in about four weeks to check how the wound is healing.
Some people take about 6 weeks to fully recover, while others can take up to 12 weeks. It varies from person to person.
What are the benefits and risks of this surgery?
Like any surgery, this one has benefits as well as some risks.
| Benefits | Risks |
|---|---|
|
|
But remember, this surgery is very successful . About 3 out of 4 women who have this surgery experience significant pain relief.
Take-Home Message
- Vestibulectomy is a surgery performed for a specific condition called vestibulodynia , and is not a treatment for all vaginal pain.
- This surgery is usually recommended when other treatments, such as creams and medications, have failed.
- This surgery has a very high success rate in relieving chronic pain.
- Most importantly, if you have any chronic pain or discomfort related to your vagina, don't be ashamed of it or suffer alone, but talk to your doctor . They are always ready to help you.
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