Urethral stinging - help!

[Glitter Girl]

Hi there, ok so I have had IC symptoms of burining for the past 5+ years, brought on by use of the nuva ring (that's what i believe because that's when it started). I was never diagnosed with IC but had many of the symptoms.

I recently gave birth for the first time and have an 11 week old son now. Ever since I gave birth, my IC symptoms have disappeared! I am extrememly happy about that, however, now I have a new problem!

Whenever soap, shaving cream, or lubrication touches my urethra it STINGS like crazy. It never did this before I gave birth. I always pee right after intercourse to prevent bladder infection and the first pee after sex stings really really bad, but any subsequent pee's are fine. We always use lubrication and that is irritating and seems like that first pee must be stinging because the lube is still there. I have to use lube for sex because I am breastfeeding and that causes the vagina to be dry - plus, honestly, since giving birth I am not really horny at all anyway.

BTW I am using the same soap/shave gel/lube I've always used and it's sensitive skin friendly. So I have been married for 4.5 years and sex always hurt because of my IC stuff. Well now that's finally cleared up and now I have this! Has this happened to anyone else? Any ideas? My OBGYN has no idea and they say the tissues are extra thin down there from the hormone changes and that is probably it. They prescribed some hormone cream but I have not filled the prescription because I don't think that is the issue and it's expensive.

I wasn't sure if it was really my vagina stinging, clitoris, urethra, or what, so today I put some lube directly on my clitoris and no stinging. Then I put it directly on my urethra opening, and yep....there was the stinging I have been experiencing.

So basically, when I shower or have sex and the first pee after sex I have stinging. The rest of the time it's fine. Any suggetions? I am so depressed about this!!!! I am a new Mom and want to not have to worry about this new mystery problem. Sex is hard enough after giving birth to have this issue on top of it :(

I am contemplating going to see a urogynocologist...... I hate it because I feel like I am crazy. Any ideas would help! Thanks!

[Bella Spirit]

Hi Glitter Girl

Maybe try using nothing downstairs for a while even if it’s only for a week or two. I know this might be inconvenient but at least it will give you an indication of what may be causing the irritation.

I used to use unscented baby wipes on my entire body when it was a hot day. I stopped using them downstairs and quickly noticed a difference. I also stopped using harsh laundry detergent and other things that could cause me irritation too and I must say that I feel a lot better for it.
I no longer have external stinging and burning. Now if I can fix the inner pain!
Hope this helps a bit
Hugs

[Dakota]

One of the things I've done is when washing underwear, I run the machine through the rinse cycle again when the load is finished. It's amazing how much detergent is left behind after only one rinse. I have found this helps with stinging and the irratation problem.
Best,
Dakota

[Ruthiecat]

I also can't use commercial lube any more, but have had great success with oil. I read somewhere that apricot oil from the health food shop was recommended, and it worked well for me. Now I just use olive oil from the kitchen cupboard! You just have to get used to the different consistentcy. I really like the feel of the oil now :)

[ICNDonna]

It's very possible that the products you have used for a long time are now a problem for you --- that's how allergies sometimes develop. I know that for many years I could take penicillin and sulpha with no problem, but now I am severely allergic to both. I also have developed some contact allergies as an adult.

My suggestion is to avoid putting any soap on the urethral area for a while. Our bodies are pretty well designed to cleanse that area on its own if we keep the nearby areas clean. And you might want to try a different lubricant.

It's also good to double rinse your underpants --- and be sure they have cotton crotches.

I hope this helps.

Donna

[KaraLynne]

Even before I had IC symptoms, some common lubricants burned. I've had luck with Sliquid products.

I recently got Aloe Cadabra lubricant and really love it, even more than sliquid. It is not cheap, but you can get free shipping for your first order, and they are often running 30% off specials. It is 95% aloe vera, works with condoms, and has all food-grade ingredients. In fact, I use it as a vaginal moisturizer as well and it helps me feel less irritated.

Many of the ingredients in the lubricants you find in most drugstores have ingredients that make me shudder. I can't believe it's ok for companies to sell stuff like that to be inserted into a vagina!

[rb7]

My doctor told me to use olive oil as a lubricant and after I urinate. Also told me its not necessary to use soap of any kind down there.

[KaraLynne]

I'd like to add that while olive oil can be good for some, it's not recommended if you use condoms (there is some debate about whether vegetable oils cause holes in condoms, but petroleum oils definitely do and if you really don't want kids, you probably shouldn't risk it) or if you are prone to yeast infections (I guess yeast bacteria can grow quickly in the olive oil). Otherwise, it is a very good idea.