**TMI post** for Bea's benefit.

Bea, it was probably fully 12-18 mths before I felt completely recovered (but i also had some nasty scar tissue involved), but I had a very reassuring GP at the time so I just sort of stuck with it until I noticed an improvement. Having said that, I had said to myself that if it was still bothering me around the 12 mths mark, I was preparing to see both the incontinence clinic (I had a few issues there...!) and ask for a gynae referral.

I can actually wear a tampon now more easily than before DD was born. The pressure discomfort has well and truly gone away (that was the main thing that bothered me actually, so uncomfortable). TBH i haven't really ever noticed any weird water things going on but I am prone to the occasional 'fanny fart' these days that I'm sure weren't there before.

The sex has definitely improved in terms of physical comfort and enjoyment. Once I stopped bfing and all the good lubrication got started again, anyway. I used to worry about things bulging out during sex but I asked my DH about it and while he commented that it 'looked different' it didn't bother him at all and he figured after he'd seen a baby's head (and arm) come out of there it wasn't going to snap back into place straight away. Did I mention my GP put me on vaginal oestrogen for a bit and that helped a lot with general tissue comfort (and I'm sure repair) as well.

I really think if this is still bothering you, get the gynae referral anyway. By the time you get an appt with a good gynae it will be 6 mths anyway and you can formulate an action plan. Quite aside from the physical issue this is clearly bothering you and you need to seek some extra support for that reason alone.

BTW, I'm now pg with my second child, and when I was requesting a CS (I developed PTSD due to horrendous first birth) the reasons cited in my paperwork refer to tearing and prolapse, more than the PTSD. So that makes me think it's considered an acceptable medical reason to request a CS (in the public system anyway) for these reasons. Just a little chunk of info to store away for the time when you're getting ready to make this decision...

Good luck. x