[newsoul11]

I have definitely had experiences like these!!! When I was 18, I had a nurse tell me once that I was just a “control freak” and needed to relax, among other extremely inappropriate things. The experience scarred me for a long time and to this day I have a fear this particular NP will walk in (even though I’m not in the same state anymore!).

I have had mixed results with pap smears and pelvic exams since having a hymenectomy in 2009. The best results for me have been when I am given a light anti-anxiety medication beforehand (which means I need to be driven to the appointment, unfortunately) and where the nurse/NP/doctor uses the smallest (pediatric) speculum and lets me insert it myself and shows and talks me through each step of the process. It’s so crucial to have a nurse/NP/doctor that you trust and who will be patient with you rather than pressuring you.

I never thought to use a dilator before/during the procedure, but that sounds like a fantastic idea and one I will definitely keep in mind in the future.

[newsoul11]

Hello!

I’m 28 years old and just got married in September 2016 to my partner of 6 1/2 years. I’ve been struggling with dyspareunia since my first relationship in 2006, where it was painful to have manual sex and impossible to have intercourse at all. After struggling and getting no where, I was diagnosed with a microperforate hymen at 19 and had a hymenectomy in 2009. I had a brief period of time with my now husband where sex was not painful, but the past 5 years have been full of ups and downs. My husband is extremely supportive and I can “shut off” feeling sad about this, sometimes for months at a time, but I really do want to fix this issue once and for all.

I started using my dilators again last week and have to start with the smallest one now, after being able to insert the 2nd largest 2 years ago. I found this forum after doing another frantic web search for help/support. I’m looking forward to reading the forums and finding some solidarity, tips and support.

[Author]

Posts