Your body has changed after giving birth, but no one dares to talk to you about what's going on "down there"? Vulvar incompleteness affects 1 in 3 women and yet remains the most closely guarded gynecological taboo. Discover NOW the solutions that no one reveals!
✦ KEY POINTS ✦
- ✿ Vulvar incompleteness affects 35% of women after childbirth but can be treated effectively in 87% of cases.
- ✿ Regular perineal rehabilitation and targeted exercises represent the first line of non-invasive treatment.
- ✿ Prompt intervention at the first symptoms significantly increases the chances of a full recovery.
The Hidden Truth About Vulvar Gaping That No One Dares To Address
La vulvar gaping is a gynecological disorder characterized by an abnormal separation of the vulvar lips, creating a permanent gape at the vaginal entrance. Unlike typical anatomy where the lips touch and protect the vaginal entrance, in a gape, these tissues remain separated even at rest.
Nearly 35% of women after vaginal birth experience some degree of vulvar gaping, although this topic remains largely taboo.1
Vulvar Incompleteness vs. Vaginal Incompleteness: Never Confuse Them Again!
90% of women confuse these two intimate disorders, and this confusion delays their recovery by an average of 7 months!
- Vulvar gaping : Affects the visible exterior - the vulvar lips (labia) remain apart even at rest, exposing the vaginal entrance to infections and creating a constant sensation of openness.
- Vaginal gaping : Affects the inside - the vaginal canal itself is distended or weakened, mainly leading to problems during intercourse and sometimes prolapse.
Common misdiagnosis! 64% of women receive ineffective treatments due to confusion between these two conditions.2 An accurate diagnosis = faster recovery.
Childbirth: The Main Suspect Behind Vulvar Gaps
L'delivery is the number one cause of vulvar incompetence. More than a third of women experience some degree of vulvar incompetence after giving birth naturally.3 During childbirth, the vulvar and perineal tissues undergo considerable pressure and stretching.
The main risk factors include:
- Multiple births (risk multiplied by 2,7 after the second)
- High birth weight babies (>3,8 kg) increase the risk by 63%
- Instrumental deliveries (forceps, ventouse)
- Prolonged pushing (>2 hours increases the risk by 45%)
Early detection of risk factors allows for proactive intervention, significantly reducing the incidence of postpartum vulvar incompetence.4
These Women Who Develop A Vulvar Gape Without Ever Having Gave Birth
La vulvar gaping without childbirth affects approximately 12% of nulliparous women (who have never given birth).5 The main causes include:
- Congenital anatomical predisposition
- Significant hormonal fluctuations (menopause)
- Specific trauma to the genital area
- Certain intensive sports practices (cycling, horse riding)
These Symptoms That Should Alert You Immediately
A survey reveals that 78% of affected women wait more than 8 months before consulting a healthcare professional.6
Physical Warning Signs You Can No Longer Ignore
- Sensation of vulvar opening or relaxation
- Discomfort when sitting
- Sensations of air entering the vagina
- Difficulty holding urine
- Recurrent vaginal infections
- Dryness and irritation
- Pain during sex
The association of three or more of these symptoms is highly predictive of a significant vulvar gape requiring intervention.7
The Invisible But Devastating Impact On Your Emotional Well-Being
67% of women suffering from vulvar incompetence report a significant deterioration in their quality of life.8 Psychological effects include:
- Discomfort during intimate relations
- Decreased self-confidence
- Anxiety related to symptoms
- Frustration with persistent discomfort
Take Back Control: Secret Weapons Against Vulvar Gaping
Early diagnosis significantly improves the chances of therapeutic success.9
Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation: Your First Ultra-Effective Line of Defense
La perineal rehabilitation has a 70% success rate for mild to moderate open bites.10 The most effective techniques include:
- Targeted Kegel Exercises
- Advanced Biofeedback
- High-precision electrostimulation
- Progressive vaginal cones
An intensive 8- to 12-week program can transform the quality of life of the women involved.
Surgical Solutions: When Surgery Becomes the Key to Your Liberation
For severe cases, surgical options offer an 87% satisfaction rate at one year.11 Techniques include:
- Precision perineorrhaphy
- Reconstructive vaginoplasty
- Anatomical nymphoplasty
- Complete vulvoperineoplasty
Complementary Approaches: Maximize Your Chances of Recovery
Adjuvant therapies can significantly improve the outcomes of primary treatments.12 The most effective ones include:
- Local hormone therapy
- Specific hygiene protocol
- Perineal support devices
- Psycho-sexological support
Comparative Table of Solutions for Vulvar Gaping
Comparative Table of Solutions for Vulvar Gaping
Targeted perineal rehabilitation
| Efficiency: | ⭐⭐⭐ (65% success rate) |
| Results time: | 3-6 months |
| Durability: | 1-2 years with maintenance |
| Pain/Discomfort: | ✓ Minimal |
| Downtime: | No |
| Average cost: | 200-500 € |
Vulvar strengthening exercises
| Efficiency: | ⭐⭐⭐ (60% success rate) |
| Results time: | 3-4 months |
| Durability: | 1 2-years |
| Pain/Discomfort: | ✓ Minimal |
| Downtime: | No |
| Average cost: | 150-300 € |
Vulvar radiofrequency
| Efficiency: | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (75% success rate) |
| Results time: | 1-2 months (3-4 sessions) |
| Durability: | 1 2-years |
| Pain/Discomfort: | ✓✓ Moderate |
| Downtime: | 24h |
| Average cost: | 700-1100 € |
Vulvar laser
| Efficiency: | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (78% success rate) |
| Results time: | 1-2 months (2-3 sessions) |
| Durability: | 1 2-years |
| Pain/Discomfort: | ✓✓ Moderate |
| Downtime: | 48h |
| Average cost: | 800-1200 € |
Hyaluronic acid injections
| Efficiency: | ⭐⭐⭐ (70% success rate) |
| Results time: | Immediate |
| Durability: | 6-12 months |
| Pain/Discomfort: | ✓✓✓ Notable |
| Downtime: | 24-48h |
| Average cost: | 500-900 € |
Perineorrhaphy
| Efficiency: | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (85% success rate) |
| Results time: | 1-2 months for final result |
| Durability: | Permanent (10+ years) |
| Pain/Discomfort: | ✓✓✓ Notable |
| Downtime: | 1-2 weeks |
| Average cost: | 2000-3500 € |
Nymphoplasty with vulvar correction
| Efficiency: | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (90% success rate) |
| Results time: | 2-3 months for final result |
| Durability: | Permanent (10+ years) |
| Pain/Discomfort: | ✓✓✓✓ Important |
| Downtime: | 2-3 weeks |
| Average cost: | 3000-4500 € |
*Success rates and costs are purely indicative. Always consult a specialist for personalized information.
Your Post-Gap Intimate Fulfillment: Yes, It’s Possible!
82% of treated women report a significant improvement in their sex life within 6 months of treatment.13
Benefits include:
- Reduction of pain during intercourse
- Increased sensations
- Reduction of uncomfortable air noises
- Regain of confidence
Regarding the resumption of reports:
- After rehabilitation: resumption possible as soon as the program ends
- After surgery: recommended waiting time of 4 to 6 weeks
Dr. Martine Lacroix emphasizes that "Communication with the partner and progressiveness are key factors for success".14
Prevention: Protect Your Perineum Before It's Too Late
Preventive measures can reduce the incidence of postpartum vulvar incompetence by 65%.15
Preventive Strategies Before and During Pregnancy
- Preconception perineal strengthening program (increases tissue strength by 40%)
- Daily perineal massages (10 minutes reduce the risk of tears by 53%)
- Ultrasound monitoring of the pelvic floor
Protective Techniques During Childbirth
Alternative birthing positions, warm compresses, and controlled pushing techniques can significantly reduce perineal trauma.16
Optimized Postnatal Recovery
- Start of rehabilitation 6 to 8 weeks after delivery
- Diet rich in collagen and vitamins
- Avoid high-impact activities for at least 3 months
Revolution in the Management of Vulvar Incompetence
Normalizing the discussion around vulvar incompetence represents a crucial step toward better overall gynecological health.17
A gaping vulva is neither inevitable nor a condition you must learn to live with. Effective solutions exist, and appropriate care can truly transform your quality of life.
Do not hesitate to consult as soon as the first symptoms appear; early action maximizes the chances of complete resolution.
This article was written for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. For any health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Scientific References
- Cohen J, Delancey L, et al. "Pelvic floor dysfunction after vaginal delivery." International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics. 2023;160(3):728-735. Link
- Martinez T, Williams R. "Differential diagnosis of vulvar and vaginal laxity." American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2021;225(4):379-388. Link
- Wilson KA, Thompson SC. “Postpartum vulvar changes: A comprehensive review.” Journal of Women's Health. 2022;31(6):823-831. Link
- Dubois C, Lemoine S. “Risk factors and prevention of postpartum vulvar gaping.” Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Canada. 2022;44(6):641-648. Link
- Garcia N, Roberts S. "Vulvar gaping in nulliparous women: prevalence and associated factors." Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2020;17(9):1756-1763. Link
- Hendricks K, Moore T. "Delay in seeking medical advice for vulvar symptoms." Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing. 2022;51(4):412-421. Link
- O'Connor A, Fleming P. "Symptomatic patterns in vulvar gaping: a diagnostic approach." Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2021;61(5):724-732. Link
- Rousseau V, Martin P. “Psychological impact of vulvar disorders.” Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2021;42(3):209-217. Link
- Peterson H, Anderson M. "Early intervention in vulvar disorders: a 5-year follow-up study." American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2020;223(5):684-692. Link
- Bertrand F, Mercier C. "Efficacy of pelvic floor rehabilitation in vulvar gaping." Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. 2021;102(8):1547-1555. Link
- Kim JS, Rodriguez D. "Surgical management of vulvar gaping: a comprehensive meta-analysis." The Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2021;18(10):1723-1731. Link
- Santos M, Oliveira P. “Integrated approach to vulvar disorders.” Brazilian Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics. 2020;42(3):312-320. Link
- Lee RK, Wong T. “Sexual function after vulvar gap treatment.” Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2021;18(4):694-702. Link
- Lacroix M, Bernard S. "Sexual rehabilitation after pelvic floor treatments." European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology. 2020; 251: 217-224. Link
- Decker M, Paulson K. "Prevention strategies for pelvic floor dysfunction: a 5-year prospective study." BMJ. 2021;372:m461. Link
- Svensson J, Larsen P. “Techniques to reduce perineal trauma during childbirth.” BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2022;129(6):903-911. Link
- Roberts N, Thomsen S. “Breaking the silence on pelvic floor disorders.” The Lancet. 2022;399(10342):2174-2175. Link
