Is Your Clitoris Stuck? Let’s Talk About Clitoral Adhesions

Ladies, we need to talk about something that isn’t exactly dinner-table conversation but is oh-so-important: your clitoris. If you’ve noticed that reaching orgasm has become an impossible mission or that sex has turned from fabulous to downright painful, your clitoris might be trying to tell you something—and no, I don’t mean by ghosting you like a bad Tinder date.

Most of us assume that if sex has become uncomfortable, the usual culprit is GSM (Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause)—or as we laypeople call it, dry vagina. And while GSM is a major player in vaginal discomfort, it’s not the only thing that can throw a wrench into your pleasure. There’s another sneaky condition that often flies under the radar: clitoral adhesions.

What Are Clitoral Adhesions?

Think of clitoral adhesions like an uninvited guest at your pleasure party. The clitoral hood—that little protective fold of skin covering your clitoris—can sometimes get a little too cozy and stick to the clitoral glans. This can range from mild stickiness to a full-on adhesion where the clitoris is essentially trapped, unable to move freely. And when your clitoris can’t move, pleasure can be dulled, orgasms can become elusive, and sex can start to feel more like a chore than a thrill.

Why Does This Happen?

Menopause, my fearless friends, is often the culprit. As estrogen levels decline, vaginal and vulvar tissues become drier, thinner, and less elastic. The lack of natural lubrication can cause the clitoral hood to stick, and over time, this can lead to adhesions. Other contributing factors include:

  • Lichen sclerosus (a skin condition that can cause irritation and scarring)
  • Chronic inflammation due to infections or irritants
  • Poor hygiene or inadequate genital care (not enough cleansing OR over-washing)
  • Lack of sexual activity (yes, use it or lose it applies here!)
  • Scar tissue from surgeries or injuries

Symptoms of Clitoral Adhesions

So how do you know if your clitoris is, well, stuck? Here are some telltale signs:

  • Reduced sensitivity or difficulty achieving orgasm
  • Pain or discomfort during sex (or even while wearing tight clothing)
  • Burning or irritation in the clitoral area
  • Difficulty retracting the clitoral hood

If any of these sound familiar, don’t panic! There are solutions, and you do NOT have to suffer in silence.

What Can You Do About It?

First things first: Don’t just ignore it! Clitoral adhesions don’t usually resolve on their own, and leaving them untreated can lead to worsening symptoms. Here’s what you can do:

  1. See a Menopause Specialist

Your first step should be to consult a menopause specialist (not just any doctor—you want someone who actually knows how to deal with these things). They can examine the area and determine the severity of the adhesion.

  1. Topical Estrogen or DHEA

If the cause is hormonal (and menopause is often the instigator), a doctor may prescribe topical estrogen or DHEA to restore moisture and elasticity. This can sometimes help loosen mild adhesions over time.

  1. Manual Separation

For minor adhesions, gentle manipulation with an estrogen cream can sometimes help. But do NOT go poking around with a cotton swab or, worse, a sharp object! Leave this to the professionals.

  1. Surgical Intervention

In severe cases, a doctor might perform a minor procedure to carefully separate the adhesion. This is typically quick and done under local anesthesia with minimal downtime.

  1. Good Genital Hygiene and Moisturization

Keeping the vulva clean and well-moisturized can help prevent adhesions from forming. Use a pH-balanced, fragrance-free cleanser (no douching, please!) and apply a vulvar moisturizer regularly to keep tissues healthy.

  1. Sex and Stimulation

Yes, you read that right! Regular sexual activity (solo or partnered) can keep the clitoral hood mobile and prevent adhesions from forming in the first place. If penetration is painful, consider focusing on external stimulation or using vaginal dilators to maintain elasticity.

  1. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy

Some women have found relief with PRP treatments (sometimes marketed as the “O-Shot”). This involves injecting your own platelets into the area to promote healing and rejuvenation. It’s not for everyone, but it’s an option worth discussing with a specialist.

The Takeaway

Your pleasure is NOT negotiable. If you’re struggling with painful sex or difficulty orgasming (is that a word!?!), don’t chalk it up to aging or tell yourself it’s just part of menopause. It doesn’t have to be!

Clitoral adhesions are treatable, and with the proper care, you can restore sensation, comfort, and pleasure. If you suspect something is off, listen to your body and get it checked out.

Stay fearless, fabulous, and informed!

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*EllenDolgen.com does not recommend, endorse, or make any representation about any tests, studies, practices, procedures, treatments, services, opinions, healthcare providers, physicians, or medical institutions that may be mentioned or referenced. The information, including opinions and recommendations, contained on this website is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Such information is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of an appropriately qualified and licensed physician or other healthcare provider.

 

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