Why Does Your Clitoris Hurt During Childbirth or Postpartum?
(0:00) If you're experiencing clitoral pain, burning, or discomfort postpartum, one effective method to alleviate this is by desensitizing the clitoris. Yes, touching the clitoris can help reduce sensitivity over time.
(0:05) This issue is quite common during or after childbirth. Many women report feeling like their clitoris is tearing or burning, sensations that can persist for weeks, months, or even years without proper treatment.
(0:25) Clitoral pain can often result from the compression of the pudendal nerve during childbirth. The pudendal nerve branches to the clitoris through the long dorsal nerve. When compressed, it can cause intense discomfort, including sensations of tearing, burning, or tingling.
(1:02) As the baby moves through the birth canal, it may pinch or compress this nerve, leading to these unpleasant feelings. I personally experienced this with my second child, and it was extremely uncomfortable.
(1:32) To heal this, it's crucial to desensitize the clitoris and help the pudendal nerve recover. In our clinics in Edmonds and Poulsbo, Washington, we offer intensive therapy for this issue, but there are also steps you can take at home.
(2:01) Here are some tips to start healing clitoral pain: Begin by gently touching the clitoris to reduce sensitivity. If direct touch is too painful, use a tissue or a q-tip. Gradually increase to using your finger to touch around the clitoris and move the surrounding tissue.
(2:35) Desensitizing involves consistently stimulating the clitoris until it no longer associates touch with pain. Masturbation can also aid in this process, helping the clitoris recognize that touch is not harmful.
(3:33) Once you can tolerate touching, start gently moving the labia around the clitoris. Pull the labia up and hold for 5-10 seconds, then release. If it burns, shorten the duration or intensity. Gradually move the labia towards the vaginal opening to stimulate the entire area.
(4:52) During childbirth, tissues expand significantly and may not return to their original state due to micro-tears and scar tissue. This can hinder proper healing. Ensuring these tissues move well is key to recovery.
(5:41) Incorporate belly breathing to help open the pelvic floor. Inhale deeply, allowing your diaphragm to push down into the belly, which in turn opens the pelvic floor muscles. This encourages hydration and blood flow, essential for healthy tissue.
(6:43) Working with a pelvic physical therapist can be incredibly beneficial. They can assist in decompressing the pudendal nerve and restoring normal clitoral movement, alleviating pain and revitalizing your core post-childbirth.
(7:18) For more detailed guidance, check out my book "Restore Your Body After Kids: The Secret To Avoid Peeing Your Pants And Achy Joints As You Age." It includes an exercise program to heal your core and alleviate clitoral pain.
(7:42) Begin with desensitizing the clitoris and moving the labia. Then, incorporate deep breathing to enhance blood flow and tissue health. This process not only alleviates pain but also improves intimacy and clitoral function.
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Any information available at this channel is intended for general guidance only and must never be considered a substitute for advice provided by a physician, medical provider, pelvic floor therapist or physical therapist. Body Motion Physical Therapy will not be liable for any injuries that happened due to performing any exercises or advice given on this channel.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare professional with questions about your medical condition or to diagnose any conditions.