Recovering after childbirth can be long especially if you experienced an episiotomy or vaginal tear. This can prolong your healing process and make it harder to get back to your usual self. But what if during the surgical repair of the tear, your doctor puts an additional stitch that is not needed. Thousands of women have suffered from what is called the husband stitch. Learn the signs of the husband stitch and what should you do if one was performed without your permission.
Episiotomy Vs. Tear
Episiotomy consists of your doctor making an incision at the opening of your vagina to make it easier for you to give birth. The procedure may be performed if you are having difficulty pushing your baby out. This incision cuts through the muscles and takes longer to heal. A tear occurs while you are pushing your baby out and and can be superficial or a third degree cut. Both episiotomies and tears usually heal within 4 to 6 weeks depending on the severity. Consult with your doctor to see if there are any other precautions you need to take during the healing process.
What is The Husband Stitch?
During childbirth it is very possible for you to get a tear during delivery. This can be caused by excessive pushing or your baby having a large head. However, episiotomies or vaginal tears are a minor complication during childbirth. Your OBGYN will stitch the tears and they should be completely healed within a few weeks. Some doctors however take it amongst themselves to add an additional stitch. This stitch makes the vagina tighter for your partner’s sexual pleasure.
This is an inappropriate matter to think about especially after a mother has delivered. When a mother gives birth her body is going through several changes such as her hormones and the bleeding that occurs after delivery. However some medical professionals believe they are doing their patients a favor by doing the husband stitch. But what they are really doing is violating their patients rights and not honoring the oath they took to become a medical provider. It can be considered medical malpractice if the husband stitch is done without your consent.
Signs of The Husband Stitch
- Having problems sitting.
- Discomfort during intercourse or inserting a tampon.
- A pulling or tearing sensation
- Pain during bowel movements
- Excessive pain, bleeding, or discomfort during recovery
What To Do If You Suspect You Have a Husband Stitch
If you believe that you have a husband stitch, you should contact a different OB to do a full assessment. If you indeed have one, see if it is possible to have the stitch removed. You should also file a complaint with the hospital and medical board on the doctor who performed the unwanted procedure. Rendering treatment that you have not consented to is considered medical malpractice especially if it is not life saving. It would also be beneficial to contact a lawyer to see what rights were violated and see if you are entitled to compensation.
