Photographer @LetsshootSara at the @ThePalm
Hey there, my beautiful self-made babes! Today, I want to talk about something that’s often swept under the rug when it comes to postpartum experiences: the changes our bodies go through and the challenges we face. I know firsthand how tough it can be, but trust me, you’re not alone. So grab a cup of sweet tea, sit back, and let’s have a heart-to-heart.
I remember when I embarked on my postpartum journey, eager to embrace motherhood and navigate the changes that lay ahead. Little did I know that the road would be filled with unexpected bumps and twists. I encountered a particularly tough challenge: a condition known as vaginal stenosis (scar tissue), which made intimacy with my husband impossible.
You see, babes, our bodies are incredible vessels that bring life into this world, but sometimes they need a little extra love and care during the healing process. In my case, my body healed smaller than it should have, leaving me feeling disconnected and embarrassed. When I was giving birth to my daughter…my doctor had to use the vacuum for my delivery because my little one, miss Azalea Jaymes wanted to continue to live rent free and we needed to evict her ASAP. ha
Now, let me share a little personal story, y’all. When I went in for my 8-week checkup, a different female doctor gave me the go-ahead to resume workouts and intimacy. But when my husband and I tried to get close, things just didn’t work out. I couldn’t believe it, babes, my husband couldn’t fit inside me. It seemed like nothing would fit anymore (I couldn’t have sex, couldn’t fit a tampon, not even a finger), and that’s when I reached out to my girlfriends, desperately seeking answers and support.
Unfortunately, I couldn’t find much information online about what I was going through, apart from a disturbing term called the “husband stitch.” I even consulted a lawyer, hoping for a solution, but was disheartened to learn that there wasn’t much I could do legally. However, I wasn’t ready to give up.
I knew something wasn’t right, and I made an appointment with my original OBGYN. She examined me, saw the issue, and scheduled a vaginal biopsy ( I asked her if it was the husband stitch but she said my body overhealed). It turned out that I needed a procedure to widen the affected area, allowing me to heal properly and regain intimacy with my husband. While the thought of going through the healing process all over again was daunting, I knew it was a necessary step towards reclaiming my body and embracing my womanhood. Before the biopsy, she had me use estrogen cream, which had no impact on my breast milk supply. During the procedure (which was scheduled a week later), she numbed the area with a needle, made a quick incision, and used one stitch that would dissolve on its own. They even sent me home with pain meds and advised me to buy some dilators. My OBGYN, she’s a true gem, fixing me up and assuring me that I wasn’t alone on this journey. I wanted to be mad at her but in the end, she fixed the problem right away. I had so much anxiety and was a little scared but it was a very quick process and I didn’t need to work myself up so much. Let’s remember to reach out to our healthcare providers, babes, they’re here to help us heal and rediscover our strength.
During my journey, I discovered a couple of invaluable tools that helped me along the way. First, I purchased dilators from Amazon, which played a crucial role in gradually increasing my comfort and helping me get used to having something go in and out. It took nearly 20 weeks all together before I could finally have sex with my husband again, and believe me, it was a moment filled with joy and relief.
Additionally, I found immense support in the Petala app. This wonderful resource provided guidance, education, and a community of like-minded women who were going through similar experiences. Nobody should have to face these challenges alone. (You don’t have to purchase their dilators. You can just use the app with the ones off Amazon to help you save you money…)
Now, babes, I want to take a moment to remind you that every body is unique, and every journey is different. However, if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s the importance of prevention. Ladies, let’s talk about stretching our vaginas before giving birth to avoid tears. It may not be a foolproof method, but it can certainly help minimize potential trauma and speed up the healing process.
Remember, there is no shame in seeking help, whether it’s from medical professionals, support groups, or trusted friends. Your experiences are valid, and your voice matters. Together, we can break the silence surrounding postpartum challenges and empower one another to love our bodies, flaws and all.
So, my dearest girlfriends, let’s embrace our beautiful bodies, celebrate our strength, and support each other through the ups and downs. You are resilient, powerful, and deserving of all the love and happiness in the world. Keep shining, keep growing, and keep embracing the incredible journey of motherhood.
With love and understanding, your business and mama bestie… Jenna
P.S. If you’re going through a similar experience or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re in this together, and together we can overcome anything.
+ Want my go to daily vitamins…check my article out here…