In the previous post I talked about managing your symptoms after having a colposcopy or LEEP procedure.
Today I will be sharing some great tips on returning to sexual activities after those procedures.
Cleared for penetrative sexual activities after a colposcopy or LEEP procedure?
You may have lots of questions and reservations. That is normal.
Sadly (but not surprisingly), there is a lack of high quality research on the effect of LEEP and colposcopy on female sexual function.Â
We want to emphasize the enormous benefits of these procedures in diagnosing cervical abnormalities and preventing cervical cancer while acknowledging that some people may have some challenges after the LEEP.
Going through these procedures and receiving a diagnosis of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN)- abnormal cells at the cervix can be highly stressful and may impact how you feel about this part of your body.
This heightened awareness and anxiety may affect your sexual function and desire.
Learning more about how your body and sexual desire works can be incredibly empowering (always, but especially during this stressful time).
Some great books we recommend at Pelvic Shanti:
- “Becoming Cliterate: Why Orgasm Equality Matters - And How To Get It ” by Dr. Laurie Mintz
- “You Are Not Broken” by Dr Kelly Capserson
- “Smart Sex” By Emily Morse
- “Sex Talks” by Vanessa Marin
- "Come As You Are" by Emily Nagoski.
- **New Book Alert** "Come Together" by Emily Nagoski - Available for Preorder
Given that stress and anxiety can impact your sexual desire, we recommend helping your body with additional support:
Try some one of our amazing Arousal Serums from Rosebud Woman or Dame. Using these serums to perform a vulvar massage as described by Emily Morse in her “Smart Sex” book are guaranteed to get you in the mood. Remember the clitoris is the main sexual organ for people with vulvas! A pelvic floor PT can be a great resource in guiding and educating you on your anatomy.
Finding a great lubricant is key.
During your recovery from the procedure, using a lubricant that is longer lasting may be beneficial. Choosing a silicone-based lubricant over water-based will provide ease and comfort with sexual intimacy.
Maude has a wonderful, hypoallergenic and paraben-free silicone-based lubricant that we absolutely love.
If you are experiencing lasting pain with penetrative sexual activities after a LEEP procedure, we recommend talking to your doctor to assess what is going on.
Working with a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist might be helpful to ease pelvic floor muscle tension and pain. A Pelvic Floor PT can provide exercises that will help with relaxation and aid in restoring normal sexual function.
Questions about our products? Email us: boutique@pelvicshanti.com
PS Love đź’ś
Mieke
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Sources:
https://www.nccc-online.org/hpvcervical-cancer/cervical-cancer-screening/
https://www.verywellhealth.com/loop-electrosurgical-excision-leep-procedure-3521075
Ethan Litman. Female Sexual Dysfunction in Women After Treatment of Cervical Dysplasia. Sex Med Rev 2022;10:360–366.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2050052122000221