SexualHealth.com
 The Sexual Health Network is dedicated to providing easy access to sexuality information, education, support, and other resources.
Home Login Home contact us | privacy policy | Thu Dec 04 2008   
Men's Sexual Health
Women's Sexual Health
Love & Relationships
Sexuality Education
Disability & Chronic Condition
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Sexual Health Resources
Shopping


Register to join our community  
Join Our Newsletter:


 
print this page
Question:
I have been having recurring vaginal problems for quite some time now, maybe a couple years. It seems that almost every time after having sex I become extremely irritated and have severe Itching. This can last for several days, up to a week or so. It may just be that I am prone to yeast infections because some of the symptoms are similiar but i'm just not sure. Some of the time these symptoms are accompanied by two almost "paper cut" looking slits on either side at the end of my vagina. These sting like crazy. They are not deep at all but are about an inch long...you wouldn't even notice them unless they were pointed out because they literally are on the first layer of skin and tiny. Also occuring sometimes is a tiny little cut, almost like a small gash, in the same spot each time in the middle of my clitoris. It's like it just splits or tears down the middle. Maybe too rough of stimulation? I dont know. I now have a tiny slit looking cut about 1/4 inch long on the inside of my labia...same as the other two. I've gone to the doctor for this but havn't had any luck. Possibly STD or something?? I'm afraid I will become infertile! I'm hopeless..

Answer:
by Brian Zamboni:
(01/18/2006)
This sounds like a troubling concern, but it is not hopeless. To tackle this enigma, I would take a multifacted approach with several steps. First, I would work with an experienced OB/GYN or another medical professional who is knowledgeable about sexuality. The specific symptoms described are not consistent with a specific sexually transmitted infection, but it would be a good idea to get tested thoroughly. The doctor should rule out other medical complications. As you do this, consider abstaining from any form of sexual activity, including masturbation. Before trying any sexual activity (see below), make sure your wounds are completely healed. Work with the medical professional to confirm that you have healed properly. Consider also working with a sex therapist. As a part of this work, think about all of the activities involved with your genitals. For example, what kind of tampons do you use? How do you use them? A sex therapist can help you think about how you have sex and explore possible contributing factors to your symptoms. For example, condoms can irritate the vaginal lining for some women. Using polyurethane condoms could be an alternative. The sex therapist can also help you explore your sexual behaviors in an attempt to help you avoid future symptoms. For example, as a first step toward sexual activity, it would be important for you to masturbate solo (after discussing your masturbation techniques with the therapist). There is a lot you can do to work on this issue--don't give up!

Reviewed by: Patricia Fawver Ph.D. in Sexology

This question appears in the following topics: