Our Summary

This research paper discusses the need for improved methods of managing pain after a vaginoplasty, a surgical procedure often undergone by transgender women as part of their gender affirmation journey. The paper briefly explores the currently available pain management techniques and emphasizes the need for more effective methods due to the increasing number of these surgeries.

FAQs

  1. What are the current pain management methods available following vaginoplasties?
  2. How important is postoperative pain control in vaginoplasty procedures?
  3. What is the relevance of developing efficient techniques for postoperative pain control in vaginoplasties?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might advise a patient undergoing vaginoplasty to follow postoperative care instructions carefully, including keeping the area clean and avoiding strenuous activity to promote proper healing.

Suitable For

Vaginoplasty is typically recommended for transgender women as part of their gender affirmation surgery. It may also be recommended for cisgender women who have experienced pelvic organ prolapse, congenital conditions like vaginal agenesis, or for those who wish to alter the aesthetics or function of their vagina for personal reasons.

Timeline

Before vaginoplasty:

  1. Consultation with a surgeon to discuss the procedure and expectations
  2. Pre-operative assessments and tests to ensure the patient is a suitable candidate for surgery
  3. Preparing for surgery by following fasting instructions and possibly stopping certain medications
  4. Signing consent forms and discussing post-operative care instructions

After vaginoplasty:

  1. Immediate post-operative care in the recovery room, monitoring vital signs and pain levels
  2. Pain management with medications such as opioids, NSAIDs, and local anesthetics
  3. Monitoring for complications such as bleeding, infection, or clot formation
  4. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon for wound checks and monitoring healing progress
  5. Gradual resumption of daily activities and introduction of dilator therapy for vaginal depth and width maintenance
  6. Long-term follow-up to address any concerns or complications that may arise post-surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with vaginoplasty surgery?
  2. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
  3. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort?
  4. What kind of postoperative care and follow-up will be needed?
  5. How soon can I resume normal activities, including sexual intercourse?
  6. Will there be scarring or changes in sensation after the surgery?
  7. Are there any specific instructions or precautions I should follow during the healing process?
  8. What are the long-term effects and outcomes of vaginoplasty surgery?
  9. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that should be considered?
  10. How experienced are you in performing vaginoplasty surgeries, and what is your success rate?

Reference

Authors: Hamidian Jahromi A, Akin J, Reynolds A. Journal: Pain Manag. 2021 Sep;11(5):433-435. doi: 10.2217/pmt-2021-0016. Epub 2021 Apr 8. PMID: 33829864