What are clitoral adhesions?
Clitoral adhesions occur when the skin of the clitoral hood attaches to the clitoris. This makes it difficult for the clitoris to be stimulated and may cause pain during sexual activity and difficulty achieving orgasm. Clitoral adhesions may be mild to severe, depending on how much of the glans clitoris is visible beneath the hood. Clitoral adhesion may be caused by lichen sclerosus, lichen planus, excessive use of hygiene products and lubricants, injury or irritation to the area, allergic reactions or hormonal changes.
Symptoms
There is a common association between clitoral adhesions and a history of painful intercourse, lichen sclerosus, yeast infections, and other sexual dysfunctions.
Symptoms often include:
- Discomfort
- Pain/painful intercourse
- Difficulty with arousal
- Weakened or absent orgasm
- Clitoral hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity
What is clitoral adhesion removal?
Clitoral adhesion removal is a non-surgical procedure involving the separation of the clitoral hood from the clitoris to separate adhesions. This treatment is administered in Dr Li’s office and generally takes around 30-60 minutes. Topical numbing medication is applied to the clitoris at the start of the procedure.
Clitoral adhesion removal can also be combined with other gynaecological surgery under general anaesthetic.
Benefits of clitoral adhesion removal
The benefits of this procedure include:
- Improved sexual satisfaction
- Reduced physical symptoms such as pain, clitoral discomfort and difficulty with orgasm
- Alleviation of related psychological distress
Please note that all surgeries and procedures carry risks and complications. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriate health professional.
Post-Treatment Instructions
Before the procedure, shave and shower. Afterward, rest for the remainder of the day and avoid strenuous activities for 48 hours. You may experience some discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen, but avoid aspirin. Keep the area clean and dry by gently washing with warm water and patting it dry, and avoid using soap. Wear loose clothing, such as skirts or dresses, and change sanitary pads or panty liners frequently. Refrain from sexual intercourse, tampon use, and other friction-causing activities for 6 weeks. Monitor the area for signs of infection, such as increased redness or swelling, and contact your doctor if needed. Schedule follow-up appointments at 6 weeks and 6 months. Avoid hot tubs, saunas, and swimming pools for at least 6 weeks to reduce infection risk. If you have any concerns during your recovery, please contact our office.
Dr Li recommends using either a steroid cream or oestrogen cream after your surgical procedure. However, Dr Li will provide specific instructions on how to use the prescribed cream post-procedure. Please follow these instructions carefully for the best results.
Ask a question or book a consultation
Please contact us at 3219 6868 with any questions or if you are ready to book your consultation. Dr Sharon Li looks forward to seeing you soon. Contact Us!
-Dr Sharon Xian Li (MED0001402739)
Registered Medical Practitioner, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)
Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
All gynaecological treatments come with potential risks and complications. We recommend seeking a second opinion from a qualified health practitioner before proceeding. The photos and videos on our website and social media are shared with patient consent. Individual outcomes, including risks and recovery times, vary based on factors such as genetics, health, and lifestyle. As a result, these images do not guarantee similar results for everyone. The information on our page is general and should not be taken as medical advice. For more specific guidance, please contact us directly.