What causes a meaty bulge at the vaginal opening after a vaginal delivery, and what should be done?
Vaginal delivery refers to natural childbirth. Under normal circumstances, a lump at the vaginal opening after natural childbirth may be related to factors such as vaginal wall prolapse, uterine prolapse, vulvitis, vaginal polyps, and genital warts. It can be managed through anal lifting exercises, use of pessaries, medication, and other methods. It is recommended to visit a hospital to determine the exact cause and follow medical advice for treatment. The analysis is as follows:
1. Vaginal wall prolapse: Excessive straining during natural childbirth can lead to vaginal wall relaxation, or postpartum hormonal changes may cause bladder and urethral prolapse, possibly resulting in a lump at the vaginal opening. Patients are advised to seek pelvic floor rehabilitation promptly and improve vaginal wall prolapse through anal lifting exercises.
2. Uterine prolapse: Uterine prolapse results from damage to the pelvic floor muscles and other tissues, causing the uterus to descend from its normal position along the vagina, even protruding outside the vagina, leading to the aforementioned condition. Mild or moderate uterine prolapse can be improved with a pessary, which is a ring-shaped device made of rubber or silicone that supports the prolapsed uterus. If necessary, treatment may involve procedures such as subtotal hysterectomy, vaginal wall repair, or vaginal fixation at the hospital.
3. Vulvitis: After natural childbirth, decreased immunity may allow bacterial invasion, causing vulvitis. A lump may typically appear at the vaginal opening, often accompanied by abnormal secretions, itching, and other discomforts. Patients should use medications such as An'naer Fumigation and Washing Liquid, Miconazole Nitrate Suppository, or Clotrimazole Suppository as advised by a doctor to aid recovery.
4. Vaginal polyps: Inflammatory irritation or other causes may lead to granulation tissue growth in the vagina, forming polyps resembling lumps at the vaginal opening. If the polyps are large or interfere with daily life, they can be surgically removed at the hospital. Postoperative care should focus on local hygiene to prevent secondary infection.
5. Genital warts: Genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. After vaginal delivery, low immunity, poor hygiene, or unprotected sexual activity may lead to infection, causing wart-like lumps at the vaginal opening. Prompt medical treatment with medications such as Imiquimod cream, Podophyllotoxin cream, or Thymopeptide Enteric-coated Tablets is recommended.
After childbirth, it is advised to maintain local hygiene to prevent infection.