How long do the changes take?

The regression of the loosening and dilation of the muscles can take several weeks to months. This depends, among other things, on the training condition of the pelvic floor muscles before birth and the training after birth. The vaginal canal can be permanently changed after a birth, but this is not visible from the outside and often not even noticeable.

If the mucous membrane has been injured, it can itch and burn during healing and become unpleasantly noticeable during movement, but heals within a few weeks. Very deep, especially perineal tears, can, however, cause discomfort for a few months. It is not possible to say in general how long after birth sexual intercourse should be avoided. If the woman feels pleasure, larger wounds have healed and there is no pain, there is no reason not to have intercourse.

What can I do myself against the changes?

Vaginal changes and complications during birth can already be counteracted preventively.For example, in the last six weeks before the birth date, a perineal massage can be performed daily to relax the muscles and prepare them for the birth. Furthermore, the targeted training of the pelvic floor has a positive effect on the strain during birth. After the birth, the sagging muscles of the pelvic floor should be tightened, for example, with post-natal exercises.

The perineum and vagina can also be rubbed with perineal massage oil. This is good for the mucous membrane and can also be helpful if the vagina is dry. If vaginal dryness is felt to be very annoying, an estrogen cream can help.

In almost half of all pregnant women, apart from vaginal changes, haemorrhoids also occur. These can be treated during pregnancy with oak bark extract, for example, in sitz baths and often disappear spontaneously after birth. If this is not the case, laser treatment can be helpful. You can find more information about training the pelvic floor here.