Perineoplasty - Overview
Perineoplasty is an operation to repair the vulva and the perineum (the area between the vagina and the anus). The perineum's role is to support the pelvic floor muscles and the reproductive organs, but can become loose after childbirth, weight loss, trauma and other factors.
Perineoplasty tightens and strenghtens the perineum to improve function, comfort and appearance. It also narrows the vaginal opening and can repair damaged skin surrounding the vagina.
Why do people get a perineoplasty?
Loose vaginal skin can reduce sexual pleasure and cause feelings of self-consciousness. Muscle damage can also, in some cases, cause issues with incontinence.
Some other issues perineoplasty can help are:
- Excessive scar tissue - following vaginal birth or episiotomy
- Reduced sexual pleasure
- Low self-esteem
- Low libido (sex drive)
- Vaginal irritation or pain
- Urinary incontinence or bowel incontinence
- Vaginismus - involuntary contraction of the vagina during sexual intercourse
- Painful sex
- Genital warts
What can cause damage to the perineum?
- Childbirth - this is the leading cause of damage to the perineum. Vaginal deliveries stretch the opening of the vagina to allow for the baby to come out. Multiple vaginal deliveries increases the risk of damage.
- Extreme weight loss or gain
- Trauma/injury
- Repeated straining or impact - high impact sports or exercise
- Vaginal irritation or pain
- Genetics
- Age
Risks of Perineoplasty:
- Unsuccessful Treatment - This treatment is unsuccessful for some women.
- Pain during sexual intercourse or pain lasting over 6 months - This is very rare but can be due to the change in the position of the vagina.
- Infection
- Constipation
- Bleeding
Pre/Post Procedure Instructions:
What happens before my surgery?
A pre-assessment appointment, a few days prior to your procedure, may also be required. This can involve having blood tests and a general health check-up. This is also a good opportunity to ask any questions about your surgery.
What should I expect following my procedure?
You should be able to go home the same day as your procedure. An overnight stay at hospital is rarely needed.
Recovery:
- Do not use tampons for 6 weeks and avoid douching the vagina.
- You will probably feel tired during the day for a month or so, this will gradually improve.
- Avoid constipation and heavy lifting to reduce strain on the sling. To avoid constipation, drink plenty of water and eat fruit and green vegetables.
- After 6 weeks you should start to slowly increase your level of activity. You should be back to your normal level after 3 months.
- You can return to work in a light job after 6 weeks, and a busy job in 12 weeks. Avoid unnecessary heavy lifting.
- You can start having sexual intercourse again after 6 weeks but you may wish to use lubrication to reduce pain.
