I gave birth to my son 5.5 weeks ago. I had an epidural (and hence catheter) and a vacuum extraction, which resulted in a small second degree tear (doc's words). I've just had a look 'down there' to assess the damage.

There doesn't seem to be much difference in the obvious place (i.e. where the baby came out ), but my urethra seems to be very stretched. Like, I mean I can easily see the hole, which is about 1-2 mm wide. I'm pretty sure it shouldn't be stretched like that.

Anyone else experienced this? Could it be from the catheter? I have my 6 week check up later in the week, so will ask the doc then, but thought I'd find out other people's experiences in the meantime.