Many women choose to have labiaplasty to improve or restore the shape of their labia. The procedure can also help women who suffer from pain and discomfort when they wear tight clothes or do certain activities such as bicycling. Labiaplasty can even help to enhance sexual pleasure. How long must you wait to enjoy that last perk? Read on.
How Long Do You Really Need to Wait?
Most plastic surgeons will recommend that you wait for about six weeks after labiaplasty before resuming sexual activity. While the exact number may vary slightly depending on which doctor you talk to, always go by what your plastic surgeon tells you.
Why Do You Have to Wait So Long?
If you have sex before the tissue in your labia has healed, you risk causing injury to yourself. You may also compromise the aesthetic results of your labiaplasty. Having intercourse too soon could split your sutures, cause an infection or create other complications that could affect your recovery and your outcome.
Having sex before you’re finished healing from labiaplasty is not worth the risk.
Can You Wait Even Longer?
If you still feel sore, even after the 6-week period, it’s best to hold off. Nobody knows your body like you do, so speak up if something doesn’t feel right. Always talk to your plastic surgeon about any concerns you’re having as you heal. When in doubt, wait. Once you’re completely healed, all the waiting will be worth it — and the experience will be all the more enjoyable as a result.
Dr. Jennifer Harrington is a board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon and an adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota. Harrington Plastic Surgery is pleased to offer the most advanced cosmetic and reconstructive techniques performed by a highly specialized all-female team of board-certified plastic surgeons and professional staff.
