Childbirth is one of the most transformative experiences a woman can go through, but many are left wondering what happens to their body, particularly to their vagina, after delivery. If you’ve found yourself questioning whether the changes you’re experiencing are normal, you’re not alone.

Is vaginal laxity inevitable? Will the discomfort last? When will intimacy feel right again? These are common concerns that women have postpartum. The good news is that your vagina is incredibly resilient. Thanks to its rich blood supply, it can heal quicker than many other parts of the body. But understanding what happens and how to support your recovery can make all the difference.

In this article, we’ll explore what to expect in terms of vaginal laxity after childbirth and how you can care for yourself during recovery.

To fully grasp the changes that occur after childbirth, it’s helpful to first understand the anatomy. Often, the term “vagina” is used to describe the entire region, but in fact, it refers specifically to the internal muscular canal. On the other hand, the external area is called the vulva, which plays a significant role in both protection and sexual pleasure. The vulva consists of these important parts:

• Labia majora: These are the outer, protective folds of skin, usually covered with hair, that shield the more sensitive areas within.
• Labia minora: Located just inside, these inner lips protect the vaginal opening. Their size and shape can vary naturally.
• Clitoris: Positioned at the top of the vulva, the clitoris is a nerve-rich area essential for sexual pleasure and orgasm.

Now that we have a better understanding of the anatomy, let’s explore the changes that can occur after childbirth and the additional impact of ageing, menopause, and weight gain on vaginal health over time. Here are the key changes you might notice postpartum:

After childbirth, bruising or soreness in the vagina is common, especially with tearing or an episiotomy. Doctors recommend waiting six weeks before resuming sexual activity to allow for physical and emotional healing.

The vagina stretches during childbirth. While it generally regains its shape, delivering larger babies or multiple births may leave a permanent sense of widening. Over time, ageing can also influence how firm the vaginal muscles feel.

The drop in oestrogen after childbirth can lead to vaginal dryness, making intimacy uncomfortable. As you age, especially during menopause, the body’s oestrogen levels decline further, often worsening this issue.

Pregnancy hormones can cause the labia to darken or change shape. These changes may gradually reverse, but some women experience lasting differences, with hormonal shifts in later years further impacting the area.

Childbirth weakens the pelvic muscles, sometimes causing pelvic organ prolapse, where organs press against the vaginal wall. Ageing can intensify this condition, potentially requiring medical attention if left untreated.

If the changes in your body after childbirth have left you feeling less confident, especially with vaginal laxity, there is hope for improvement. At Orchard Clinic, we understand how important it is to feel comfortable in your own skin. That’s why we offer a non-invasive vaginal rejuvenation treatment using the advanced Exilis Ultra Femme 360 technology. This gentle approach helps you regain a sense of control and confidence without needing surgery. And for even greater results, pairing this treatment with Emsella can help strengthen your pelvic floor, further supporting your body’s recovery.

Now is the perfect moment to take that step toward feeling more like yourself again. With our limited-time only S$288 Vaginal Rejuvenation Trial, you can experience these benefits firsthand. Our friendly consultants will guide you through every part of the journey, ensuring you feel supported along the way. Contact us today to learn more and book your trial!