Women’s health and gynecology are topics that very few like to discuss or delve into. However, my hope is that this can change. That is why today I would like to discuss a surgical procedure that I think there should be awareness about. After all, it can help improve the lives of many women who are feeling discomfort or pain while performing everyday tasks or during intercourse.
That procedure is known as labiaplasty. If you have not heard of it, I certainly do not blame you. Sometimes, people use this term and the phrase “vaginal rejuvenation” as if they mean the same thing, but there is a distinction between them.
So, if you want to know what that is, stick around for this article today.
Cosmetic Versus Necessary Plastic Surgery
For many of us, when we hear the words “plastic surgery” we automatically assume that it is for purely cosmetic reasons. However, you may be surprised to learn that this is not always the case. Sometimes, people have medically necessary procedures like this performed, which you can learn more about on this web page: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/what-is-a-labiaplasty-and-what-does-it-involve.
The real term that we are looking for to define an aesthetic change is “cosmetic” surgery. Now that you know they are two distinct things, let us dive into why that is. Plastic surgery actually encompasses a large variety of instances. Rarely is it something such as lip fillers or a Brazilian butt lift.
Rather, they can be lifesavingsurgeries, or ones that significantly increase quality of life for someone. Next time that you are feeling judgmental when you hear the term, do your best to remember that. I think that the differences between them are something to be taken into consideration.
So – What is Labiaplasty?
The purpose of getting this surgery done is to decrease the size of the labia minora. If you did not know, this is the inner tissues within a woman’s genitalia. The goal is to have it rest flush against the labia majora. There area variety of reasons that someone might go through with this, of course, which I will cover now.
If the inner tissue of your genital region is out of proportion with the outer tissue, it can lead to a lot of complications in your life. Of course, intercourse often ends up being an unpleasant experience. It can be difficult for our partners to understand this sometimes too.
Now, if that is something that speaks to you, please visit your gynecologist or schedule a consultation. Other serious side effects could arise from this sort of condition, such as an increased propensity to develop urinary tract infections. Additionally, you could experience some challenges when it comes to maintaining hygiene, exercising, or performing other physical activities.
What can Cause Enlarged Labia Minora?
Now that I have covered what the procedure involves and some of the reasons to get it, let me discuss some of the events that could lead to this condition. An obvious one is childbirth. It is not uncommon for tissues to be stretched out or torn during this process, which can lend to discomfort in your life afterwards.
Of course, genetics also play a part in this. It is entirely possible to be born with this condition, though it may not be noticeable until you reach maturity. If you would like to read some peer reviewed content on this, consider looking at this link. You might find the information there helpful or educational.
Keeping it more grounded, though, there is nothing to be ashamed of if you are having a problem like this. While there is some stigma around getting these types of surgeries, you should not have to worry about that. This is especially true if you find this enlarged tissue is causing you significant distress or preventing you from pursuing the intimacy that you desire.
Other Things to Think About
For those of us out there who are curious in regard to what exactly happens during labiaplasty, let me explain some of it. It will be up to you to determine with your doctors and physicians, as well as your surgeon, what your end goal is in terms of getting this surgery performed. Still, there are a few basic guidelines that they will probably provide you with.
Some of the potential results are of course removing excess skin or tissue within the labia minora. However, there are other things as well. After all, as that is done, there might need to be some reshaping or repositioning of both the labia minora and the labia majora. This is something to discuss before you go under.
A surgeon could also remove any dark spots that you are self-conscious about. Naturally, that is something that will only be done if you want it. The final things I would like to touch upon here are that you could also request some adjustments for your clitoral hood. This can help to enhance your pleasure during intercourse, but it is not necessary in all cases. Sometimes it is, depending on how much excess tissue was removed.
Wherever you decide to have this procedure done, it is a good idea to call ahead and inquire about some of the services that they offer. You can also check out their website if you would like to and read some testimonies from other patients who have gone there. That is some of the magic of the internet!
Something that I personally place high importance on is access to support during the process. That includes both physical support and emotional. It can be a taxing experience on us, so a practice who offers that can certainly be nice. Of course, it is hardly a requirement, but there is no harm in creating a list of parameters for what you would like from your doctors.
One last note that I would like to reiterate is that there is nothing shameful about getting a surgery like this. You deserve to feel health and happy.
