This is primarily a question for the MD's out there...

I had a call yesterday from a mom who had a nasty laceration vaginally. As
far as she knows (and from the OB's exam yesterday) it was not sutured post
delivery. It is not healing and intercourse is very painful. Her OB stated
that because she is breastfeeding, estrogen levels are low and this could be
contributing to the arrest in healing (and also the dyspareunia re:decreased
lubrication/lack of healing). The baby is 4 months old and mom wants to get
pregnant again almost immediately. She is also distressed at not being able
to resume intercourse. The OB suggested that one option would be to
discontinue breastfeeding and/or surgical repair. Mom would prefer not to do
this but is distressed by the continued pain and slow healing. What would
your advice be? She has healthy diet and is still taking prenatal vitamins.
No previous history of healing difficulties.

Dana Haas R.N., BScN, IBCLC
Public Health Nurse, Lactation Consultant,
Prenatal Team Leader
The New City of Hamilton Social & Public Health Services  (Mountain Office)
71 Main St. West., Hamilton, Ontario L8P 4Y5
(905) 973-4669

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