Taneisha 03/31/2010
Question:
I am 32 weeks pregnant, and a few days ago, I had to have a catheter inserted. Now my vagina feels very swollen and a little tender. Is this normal after having this procedure, or could something else be wrong?
Answer:
RN Aubrey Wade responds:
Assuming you had a Foley catheter in your urethra, it’s entirely normal to be swollen and tender, especially if you’re in your third trimester. Increased blood circulation, hormonal levels and general nervous activity make any intervention more uncomfortable than when not pregnant. Walking thirty minutes a day and enjoying warm baths can go a long way to soothing your discomfort.