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Most tears down there are mild and heal on their own, but some require medical treatment
In general, your vagina is elastic and resistant to tears. But under certain circumstances, sex can tear the vaginal skin.
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“Most tears are mild and heal quickly on their own,” says Ob/Gyn Salena Zanotti, MD. “If the tear is significant or you have an underlying medical condition, you may need to see a healthcare provider.”
Dr. Zanotti explains the different types of vaginal tears, why they happen and what you can do to prevent them.
Vaginal tears are breaks in the skin caused by sexual intercourse. They can occur:
There are many causes of vaginal tears during sex. For example, some medications and health conditions can make the skin in and around your vagina more prone to tearing:
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Tearing can also be due to sex-related factors, such as:
“If you’re having pain or tears during sex, let your partner know,” advises Dr. Zanotti. “Communication is important for developing safe sex practices and healthy relationships.”
Consent — your verbal OK for sex — is also essential. If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, call 911 or seek medical care immediately. You can also reach out to the National Sexual Assault Hotline (1.800.656.4673) at any time.
Most vaginal tears get better on their own within a day or two. If it’s a deep tear, you may need stitches, antibiotics and extra time to recover.
To help a tear heal, Dr. Zanotti recommends the following steps:
Mild tears typically don’t require a medical evaluation. Let your provider know if you have:
Prevention strategies depend on what’s causing the vaginal tears. Some possible options include:
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And don’t forget about annual checkups to keep your vagina healthy. Routine Pap tests and pelvic exams can help detect cancer and other problems early. These checkups are also a good time to bring up any ongoing issues, like vaginal tears.
“Some people find it difficult to talk about certain issues,” recognizes Dr. Zanotti. “Your provider is there to listen and help — without judgment. An open and honest approach can help you find a solution to help you enjoy sex more.”
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