Sponge/ Vaginal Dryness

Submitted by Blue on May 21, 2008 - 2:00pm
Body: 

I wasn't quite sure where to post this question, but I'm thinking it will sit here as well as anywhere...

I just ordered a set of sea sponges this afternoon after reading a number of posts from satisfied users. Obviously, I'm hoping for the same positive results, but it did get me to thinking...Since sponges are absorbent, and since I'm menopausal and likely experiencing some degree of vaginal dryness, as Judy touched upon in her welcome (thanks for that heads-up, Judy), would using a sponge make me even dryer and/or cancel out any benefits I might gain from using a moisturizer like Replens (and therefore waste)? BTW, I tried my first application of Replens a couple of days ago (Thanks to Mae's praise).

Hmmm, it just occurred to me, being that the sponge is to be soaked and then wrung out before insertion (correct?), perhaps that would prevent it from becoming a drying agent?... but it still leaves the question as to whether it might absorb any applied moisturizer (Replens)?...

As always, thanks for your insights on this.

~♥Blue
"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain."

Mae

May 21, 2008 - 2:33pm

Hi Blue,

That's a very good question! It does seem that the sponge would absorb the Replens. After all, they are actually sold as natural tampons. I can't say for sure though as I have not been successful in getting the sponge to stay in place for me. It worked for about half an hour when I first tried it, then my prolapse pushed over it. I am not sure I inserted it correctly. I had a tough time getting it out and haven't tried it again. You may just have to try the sponge and see how things go. You can always stop if it seems to dry you out too much. A lot of women have found them helpful and one day I'm sure I'll work up the nerve to try again.

Glad you tried the Replens. Hope it is working for you. I have found that using Christine's Bliss Balm or Ky Jelly lower on the vulva makes things work even better.

Warmest regards,

Mae

Blue

May 21, 2008 - 7:54pm

Hi Mae,
I'm with you, I guess I can't see how it wouldn't (ugh, double negs).
I recall reading about the difficulty you experienced on your first try with the sponge and understand your trepidation to give it another go right away - Do let us know how it goes should you tackle it again. Personally, as I'm not all that comfortable with all that's befallen me quite yet, I'm not sure whether I'll do any better with it - I could see it getting caught up on the top side of everything, making it difficult to remove, but we shall see.

Yep, I injected my first dose of Replens on Monday, which was also the day that I ended on an uncomfortable note after an evening stationary bike ride... But since I still seem to be feeling the effects of that stint, I don't think I can give an honest report this go around. I'm looking forward to giving it another shot, though, tomorrow, for sure. Actually, on second thought, I can share that I was feeling particularly good on my first day's dose, noteably so, a feeling good enough for me to give that bike consideration in the first place... so I guess we can consider that a preliminary report, eh? ~ : ) Having read your posts on the added benefits of throwing a lube into the mix, I have been using a KY-type jelly (store brand) on the vulva, 'introitus' (ha, first op to tap my new vocab!) and that which is pushing past that gateway (I guess that makes me the gatekeeper) and I can feel the difference it makes, especially with the increased irritation I've been feeling of late. As soon as finances allow, I'd like to order Christine's balms, they sound so soothing. Thank you for all the caring and sharing you do here, Mae. Hope your evening's peace-filled.

~♥Blue
"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain."

Blue

May 24, 2008 - 8:19pm

My first pair of sea sponges were delivered today and I was wondering if any of you who have ordered yours from Jade & Pearl could help clarify something for me... It was suggested in a post here to specify, when ordering, that your intentions are to use the sponge as a support for prolapse so that they'd send the proper size, which I did in the 'comments' text field. Well, in looking at the product brochure that accompanied my order, I see that the company suggests ordering a specific model (Spro) if using for prolapse as they are larger than the model meant to be used for menstruation (SP). Given that detail, I checked my itemized statement to see if I was indeed sent the right size/model, and I find that my sponges are listed as model 429, not 'Spro' nor even 'SP' for that matter. Of course I can send the company an e-mail or call them after the holiday weekend to find out, but if anyone can enlighten me before then, as to whether models 429 and 'Spro' are one in the same (for prolapse), I'd appreciate the heads-up. TIA

Hope everyone's having an enjoyable weekend! ~ : )

~♥Blue

Mae

May 25, 2008 - 10:44am

Hi Blue,

I think you have the right size sponge. I ordered mine from Jade & Pearl and I did it over the phone. I told the woman I spoke with that it was for prolapse and she said she would send me the large ones they send for that. I just checked my invoice and it says I have 429. So rest assured... and please let me know how you do with yours. I'm going to try mine again soon...

Give the Replens a few tries. After a while your body will tell you, by the dryness and increased bulging, that it is time to use it again. It's not going to cure anything, but it sure makes things feel and act a lot better.

I hope you are enjoying your weekend too. After a bad tropical storm last night (I'm in south Florida) the skies have cleared up, the weather cooled off slightly and I am going to go relax in the sun!

Warmest regards,

Mae

Blue

May 25, 2008 - 2:18pm

429, just fine! - That's what I was hoping to hear, Mae. Thank you for coming through for me again. ~ : )

I will definitely report on how I do with the sponge...when I do decide to go for it. One part of me (my mind), is telling me, "Go ahead, just try popping it in -what's the big deal."... but another part (...my nevermind?) is telling me, "Nuh-uh, nevermind!" lol I'm a little worried that I might experience something similar to what you did on your first try; but then again, you were able to retrieve yours, which is good to know...Wup, there goes another part, the little kid in me, saying "you first, Mae!" Seriously, though, best wishes that your next attempt doesn't send you on a wild sponge chase. *smile*

Re, Replens, I've already used two applications (a dose every third day), and I don't know, kiddo... it's either working as well as you shared it would, or my many prayers are (or both ~ ; ) - Now, I haven't experienced my prolapse staying pushed out of the way like you sometimes do (it was you, yes?), but yep, I have been feeling a lot better, significantly more comfortable, I'd say (which is all relative, of course). I'll no doubt keep it as a new part of my regular prolapse care. I was due for another application today (3rd), but I'm holding off until tomorrow (since I'm feeling ok). What with the cost of the product, if I can spread it out a bit then yeah, eh? I do like that Replens has been studied for its effectiveness in "relieving symptoms related to vaginal atrophy", being menopausal as I am. BTW, I'm also using the KY type jelly (store brand) externally, as suggested.

I'm glad you weathered the storm and that the skies have cleared so you can enjoy, enjoy relaxing in that sun, Mae! Our holiday weekend's weather has been sunny and suited for getting the gardening done (well, it's never really done, done). I spent most of yesterday and a bit of today out there, planting, potting and tucking annual flowers in amongst my bedded perenials. Everything came together just beautifully with DH's help - He gladly lugs whatever, wherever, since I have to watch what I do a bit more these days; so understanding that guy. So now it's our time to sit back and relax in the sun this afternoon, for we're promised some garden-loving showers for tomorrow if systems take the right track (hopefully with some wonderfully grounding thunder-boomers too!)

Make yours a great one!

Breathe and be good
~♥Blue

P.S. If I haven't mentioned it lately, I am SO very glad to have found WW and all of you who gather here, so generously sharing how you 'live'! You gals have given me room to breathe. ((HUGS))

Mae

May 26, 2008 - 9:10am

Hi Blue,

I had to chuckle with your "you first Mae" comment. My thoughts exactly..but change the name to Blue! LOL!

The Replens keeps my prolapse inside, unfortunately never way up, so it is not buldging or peeking. When it bulges or peeks I know it's time to use Replens again. The only time my prolapse seems rather "up there" is in the morning and depending on what I do that day, it can remain rather good, or I can have a big problem. So, I have learned what will make things worse, like lifting heavy things or straining and I try not to do those things. It's hard sometimes because I have two little grandsons that I am pretty active with. But, I do know that if I have a bad day, it all starts over again the next day and I can do better.

According to my doctor, my prolapse hasn't changed in years (3rd degree cystocele) and I'm hoping it will stay that way. I can live pretty comfortably like this...I just have to pay attention to my body a little more.

I hope you are feeling better about things. Keep trying different things (hey, like maybe the sponge!!!) and you'll find what works best for you!

Warmest regards,

Mae

Blue

May 26, 2008 - 8:03pm

On second thought:_Me first, Mae! ~ : D... actually, shortly after my last sponge-posting yesterday. And I'm happy to report that all went well with both insertion and retrieval. While I could initially feel a little something while sporting the sponge, it was quickly forgotten the moment I got involved in something else. Now I'm not sure that it raised me up so much, physically, (though some) as secure things, but it did seem to raise my confidence level to a degree this first time around, which alone is enough for me to keep the sponge at the ready... So, 'tag - you're it!' *smile*

I wore it again today while looking after my 21-month old granddaughter for 6-hours. As you know, having two little DGS's of your own, when it comes to these little dearhearts of ours, sometimes pick-ups are just unavoidable, let alone heartfully undeniable, so I considered it a good test. I was still mindful, of course, to not over do it and to maintain posture as much as possible, but all in all I'd say I faired pretty well. Where my prolapse is usually trying to do a "me first" move of its own by such a day's end, it maintained a little decorum for a change, which is cool.

Note that I also applied a dose of Replens just prior to this second session with the sponge, but only because it had been four days since my last application, and it's something I really want to continue with. As to whether there's any product left after being sponged, I really wish I knew - I would hate to think that I wasted a dose.

You shared:
"... I do know that if I have a bad day, it all starts over again the next day and I can do better."

Well, that's golden in my book, Mae - another point of light that I'll keep my sights on in hopes that I too will reach a similar place of confidence and comfort on my own journey. Thank you! My days are seemingly brighter than when I first arrived, for all the light shared here. (((HUGS)))

Breathe and be good
~♥Blue

P.S. This is neither here nor there really (so, OT, I 'spose), but as a sidenote I'd like to share that since starting with the Replens, I have not experienced a hot flash nor an episode of night sweats. I know the product doesn't contain any hormones, so as likely as not, it's just a coincidence, but for the record, eh? ~B

louiseds

May 26, 2008 - 9:24pm

Hi Mae and Blue

This is really funny, reading about you two and your Spongerama Show. I have just about been pissing myself laughing at your dialog! I am not making fun of you. It is *so cute*.

Reading your recent posts is just like eavesdropping on a couple of twelve year olds in the ladies room, who have just bought their first packet of tampons together with their combined icecream money and are deciding who is going to try one first. Be brave kiddies. It's not going to get lost up there. That Dark Pink Fun Cave is a cul de sac! Don't you know that? I think that's why they put strings on tampons. Have you thought of threading a string through the sponge, just in case? ;-)

Actually, when you think about it, it is just another one of those adventures we have with our bodies at different times of our lives. We are the same as twelve year olds. Things are changing from within, and outside our control. We have never done this before. We don't automatically know how to do it. It is not like sewing a button back on. It is writing the story as we experience it. And thankyou to both of you for writing it.

Cheers

Louise

Mae

May 27, 2008 - 8:31am

Hi Louise,

I am glad Blue and I gave you a good laugh! You gave me one too reading what you had to say about our posts. I had to struggle to keep the coffee I was swallowing from coming out my nose! I like the analogy to the tampons. So funny! Some things never change. There will always be the little girl, the budding young lady and the mature woman in all of us I think. Kind of nice..

Back to the sponge trauma. At least it's a trauma for me having failed on the first try! I got kind of panicked when my prolapse ended up pushing past the sponge and I couldn't find it right away to get it out. When I finally did find it I only had a small part of it in my grasp and it tore. I was worried that I was going to leave pieces of sponge wandering around up there. I finally got it out and haven't tried again...yet. But, I will. I had thought about sewing a string on it like you suggested and trying it that way. I think I'll do that. Wonder why they don't come that way since they are sold as tampons.

Warmest regards,

Tweedledum

Mae

May 27, 2008 - 9:29am

Hi Blue,

I am so glad the sponge worked for you! A little jealous maybe, but very glad! Maybe this will inspire me to try again.

I am also glad that you have not had a hot flash or an episode of night sweats since using the Replens! It kind of makes sense doesn't it? If our body is lubricated and comfortable, I am sure it sends a signal to our brains that all is well, therefore warding off an "attack" that our body goes into when all is NOT well. I could be wrong, but it kind of makes sense to me!

Good for you! Look at all these positives that are happening to you. You go girl!!

Warmest regards,

Mae

P.S. You will get a chuckle out of Louise's response to our posts!

Blue

May 27, 2008 - 11:09am

LOL I love the mental image you created, Louise. I guess some things never change; whether 12 or 4 decades beyond, endless are the twists and turns we face along this journey and isn't it cool to have others to trip along with as we go. Thank you for serving up this morning's first smile. = : )

**Psst*, Mae -I knew there was someone in the next stall! lol = : D

What with the degree of my own prolapse(s), I can understand Mae's concerns should the sponge get shelved behind her cystocele again, but I'm wondering if it does, might it be easier to get a secure hold of while lying down?... or maybe better yet, while on hands and knees so that the bladder can settle some into the relaxed lower belly and out of the way? Not that we need a map now, but gosh, what with our 'cul de sac's straight-away' being altered by such banking and drifts, it does change the course of things, that's for sure. = ; )

As for attaching a string to aid in removal, here's what Jade & Pearl suggests: "For another retrieval option you may sew a piece of waxed dental floss or cotton string to the sponge to aid in its removal. Sponges, however, are very delicate and may tear, so be sure to tug slowly and gently if you decide to use a string."

I hope everyone's week is off to a good start. Remember to breathe, and be good...

~♥Blue

"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain."

Mae

May 27, 2008 - 11:42am

Hi Blue,

I will try removing the sponge lying down or on my hands and knees. Good idea. That should work better I would think.

Sewing waxed dental floss on my sponge (what a great idea!)is on my Managing My POP List for the day. I think the string will give me a little more confidence. Kind of a security blanket...I can hear Louise laughing!

I haven't put Insert Sponge on today's list but I may...but then again, there's always tomorrow!

Have a great one!

Warmest regards,

Mae

Blue

May 27, 2008 - 12:03pm

Hiya Mae,

Thanks for your gladness and support, kiddo. As for your own retry with the sponge, I say trust in yourself and in what you're feeling. It could be that it's just not meant to be too, you know: different things work for different people. Whatever, it's your cul de sac, right? (thanks L!) -you decide what's worth parking up there and what's not, and continue doing all the good things you're already doing for yourself. ((HUGS))

You know, as far as how often I'll end up using the sponge myself, that's yet to play out - I don't really know. Sure, insertion and removal were uneventful, but I can't honestly say that I reaped enough rewards to justify its continued use if it hadn't been. Has anyone mentioned that sporting one offers the kind of support that would prevent our prolapse(s) from worsening, or is it meant to offer more comfort than anything while still living with great care (proper posture, etc)? -I guess that would be one of the deciding factors for me. Me thinks I missed a lesson in sponge-101 (if anyone can offer any insight on that, I'd appreciate it.)

Like I mentioned though, I really like the Replens moisturizer, for its reported benefits, and who knows, maybe for unreported ones as well. *grin* -Thank you for sharing your thoughts on the possibility, no matter how remote, that there may be a link between this moisturizer and my cooling off. Hmmm, I may just temporarily stop using the Replens just to see if the internal inferno flares again.

Make your day a great one, Mae.

~♥Blue
"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain."

Blue

May 27, 2008 - 2:01pm

Best wishes, Mae. I have faith that you will handle things just fine when you're ready and end up knowing yourself even better for the process. ((HUGS)) BTW, love your idea of making a to-do list. I'm beginning to feel the merits of taking action over the stalling reaction that I wandered in with... now where's my pencil! = : )

I know I'm not alone in finding that with every given opportunity in this area, the additional hands-on experiences, along with being able to garner from the generous sharings of others, gives me a chance to expand my comfort zone...which is comforting! I know one thing for sure, and that's that I've given my vaginal arena more care and thought than ever previously imagined before the fall, and as a result, I'm getting to know myself better through it all!... Do I wish I could get as well acquainted without ever having had to take this unexpected detour? -Oh, for sure, but since there's no way to safely get off this ride, we might as well grab the wheel and steer our way through this journey of ours as best we can, eh? I'm just glad to not be white-knuckling it quite like I was earlier on.

Ah well, I see that a small crop of weeds have dotted the gardens since the last rain, so off I go, bending at the waist to pull -Therapy, right? Pulling up both the weeds and my bladder all in the same process...

Breathe and be good

Hangin' in there = : )
~♥Blue

"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain."

Mae

May 29, 2008 - 9:34am

Hi Blue,

Well, I finally took the Sponge Plunge again. I sewed a piece of waxed dental floss to the sponge and I was so impressed with my handy work, I took the plunge and inserted the sponge. As you know, I got the large size from Jade & Pearl. I did not trim it and it felt just fine. In fact, it felt great and actually held my prolapse right up there! However, after about two hours I needed to urinate. I decided to remove the sponge after urinating and like someone else who posted here, it was full of pee! That was very disappointing! I am wondering if the sponge was too big and was pushing against my bladder too hard...maybe it needs trimming? It did hurt a little when I was removing it, pulling very gently on my dental floss. Kind of like the feeling you get at the end of a period with the last tampon that might come out a little dry. Since it was full of urine, I can only assume it was not dryness causing the discomfort.

I am going to try trimming it a little (another thing for my Managing My Prolapse List), and see if that helps. If any of you Sponge fans out there are reading this and can offer any suggestions, it would be most appreciated.

I hope everyone has a wonderful day. Thanks for being my Sponge buddy Blue.

Warmest regards,

Mae

Blue

May 29, 2008 - 2:34pm

Great needlework, kiddo!!! I can imagine how that flossy tether must have upped your confidence in taking your sponge for its second walk, besides the practicality of it all. I'm very proud of you! (lol: "Sponge buddy Blue" - Thanks to you too, my sea-pearl pal! = : )

As for the your sponge's saturation, I too was on alert for that after reading Chick's pee-post. I didn't have that problem the two times I've used it so far, but then, given Louise' suggestion about taking care not to slouch when urinating, I made a point to lean forward a bit. Not because I was much of a sloucher, mind you, but because of the degree of my prolapse. To be honest (and too detailed, I'm sure), my prolapse is such that I believe it has pressured my urethra into running askew, causing it to be a bit directionally challenged, for when I urinate, I'm usually 'bathing' my vulva in doing so (sorry *blush*)... So, remember to check your posture, if you haven't, Mae, because either way, whether by slouch or misguidance, it could be that your stream isn't as 'streamline' as it once was(?). Hmm, I was kinda wondering if your newly sewn rip-cord might have been acting as a wick of sorts, but the fact that it's of the waxy variety and what with only the one session of urination, I doubt that it's a contributing factor. Hopefully, ChickenJ will share an update on how she's faring with her sponge since Louise' suggestion.

At any rate, I think I'd hold off trimming until you've checked how your stream flows. If it's up a lazy river, try reposturing, giving it another go, and then taking it from there... especially with your sharing that "it felt just fine...felt great and actually held my prolapse right up there!" -That just sounds like the kind of fit that you might not want to make alterations on unless there's no other way around it. In the same vein, if your moment of discomfort upon removal is just a moment (as it also was with me), I'd probably not trim for that either... unless someone can alert that such a rub would be detrimental, of course. I look forward to reading other's insights.

BTW, Mae... If you don't mind me asking, to what degree did the sponge hold your cystocele "right up there", as in comfortably away from the introitus?

Glad your Thursday was spongey and bright, kiddo - Hope your evening's a great one too.

Hangin' in there,
~♥Blue

"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain."

Mae

May 29, 2008 - 3:56pm

Hi Blue,

You can ask or tell me anything. After delivering 2 babies (first one post mature by 3 1/2 weeks) a D & C and numerous doctors giving me "second opinions" about my prolapse, I don't have a shy bone left in my body. A few "chicken" bones maybe (ahh that sponge!) but no shy ones.

After a quick search on the internet for the definition of introitus (I learned that is the vaginal opening...if I am wrong I would appreciate being corrected) I can say, without a doubt, the sponge held my prolapse way past the opening. I could reach in there at least a couple of inches and just felt the sponge. It was great. I can see why Sue likes the sponge so much. Slowly I am getting there. I was thrilled that my prolapse didn't fall over the sponge like the first time. Now if I could just get this pee thing worked out...

I don't think I slouch when I urinate, but I'll try to be more conscious of how I do sit. Thanks for the tip!

Have a wonderful evening.

Warmest regards,

Mae

alemama

May 29, 2008 - 5:14pm

you guys are cracking me up.

2 suggestions.....1. try to pee many different ways-my personal favorite is to hike my skirt up and stand over the toilet and stick my butt out (but not too much cause then I miss the bowl for peeing behind me) and then the pee goes straight down- my second favorite is standing in the shower- both ways I have a super straight stream- good stuff and 2. when taking out the sponge try to get on all fours-this way the front wall drops down and then you might not get the drag- I wonder if it would be less draggy with a condom on top....might be worth a try. If it was too slick you could poke big holes in it or something.....

Blue

May 29, 2008 - 6:46pm

Thanks, Mae. I'm starting to get more comfortable with the idea, that this wonderful forum is just the place to share our detailed ups and downs, so to speak. Afterall, parts is parts, eh?... besides the fact that we all share in the fall.

Yep, 'introitus', as I learned it, is the term used for the vaginal opening - part of my new vocabulary since threading through these WW forums. With that said, I say WOW! - how you've risen! I didn't get even close to such heights (now my turn to be envious *smile*)... I am definitely going to do another sponge plunge myself, setting my sights higher (& should mine serve me as well, I just may have to name it! = : ) If you have any suggestions as far as to the angle of entry or some such, I'd appreciate the share. I believe it was MeMyselfAndI who posted her MO: "put the sponge IN and slightly FORWARD" for her cystocele, so that's the approach I tried to take.

Ah, "post mature"... meaning past your due date - The first of my two babies (9lbs6oz and 10/6 respectively) was 3 1/2 weeks overdue too (w/complications). I had a D&C after suffering a miscarriage between the two. The term cystocele was first used postpartum (first preg), but never was it explained to me, nor was I smart enough to ask what it was (doh!) - I didn't have any symptoms for many years. My new doc seemed so taken aback by my advanced prolapse during my last pelvic (second visit w/her), which had me dragging myself out of there thinking I was a freak of some kind. I doubt I'll go back unless something's bleeding, in need of stitches or a cast. Maddening really, in that it took me eons to get brave enough to get in after many years of avoidance. (whoa, rammmmblingblue).

Best wishes on working out the saturation prob; I'm sure you'll work the kinks out - and I'll be looking for a pee-report down the road. You have inspired me to try and sponge things up, Mae. Thanks. = : )

Be good

Hangin' in there,
~♥Blue

Blue

May 29, 2008 - 7:23pm

____"...try to pee many different ways..."____
- I'll drink to that! (more peeing opps)

Alemama, you are opening up a whole new world here with your creative suggestions - For every roadblock there's a detour, and you've shared some good ones, certain to steer us toward what we're aiming for - This will mean, though, that I'll have to develop a better habit of closing the bathroom door, you know. *smile* Seriously, thank you for your tried and true ideas! Here's to peeing on the right side. = : )

Hangin' in there,
~♥Blue

"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain." (and pee in the shower ~;)

Mae

May 29, 2008 - 7:39pm

Yikes Alemama!! I always said I wanted to come back as a man in my next life, but I'm not gone yet!! JK. At this point I'll try most anything. Think I'll try all fours first and maybe I'll never have to go the rubber route!

I wish some of the WW who have had success with the sponge would post, or just thinking about it, I wonder if all those posts I remember were just from Sue?

Well, thank you for your interest and advice. I'll keep you posted and I'm sure Blue will as well.

Warmest regards,

Mae (If I start using condoms I plan to change my name to Mac!)

Mae

May 29, 2008 - 9:27pm

Hi Blue,

Wow! We can be Post Mature Baby Buddies too! I also had two very large babies, although I was not at all a large person. They, in turn, did not turn out to be large people either. My first, a boy now 37 years old was post mature. They kept saying my body just wasn't ready to deliver. They gave me a shot to bring labor on when I was two weeks late, but gave up when that didn't work. I finally delivered him 3 1/2 weeks late and he weighed in at 9 pounds, 13 1/2 ounces. It was a little scary when people actually came down to my room in the hospital to see the person who gave birth to "the football player" as someone called him. At the time the ob/gyn's were not letting their patients gain a lot of weight and the other babies in the hospital nursery were the tiniest little bundles of joy. My ob/gyn was "old school" and never even mentioned weight to me. I had no prolapse after the birth of our son that I am aware of.

Three years later our daughter was born with nothing more eventful than the sheer delight of having a daughter. She was induced a week early and weighted in at 8 pounds, 11 ounces. No prolapse was mentioned then either.

My prolapse didn't rear it's head (I hate to say ugly..it's an important, if not pleasant, part of me now and ugly seems too crude somehow) until a few years ago. However, for many years previously, I could not wear a tampon. It would pop out as soon as I inserted it, which had to have something to do with my then undetected prolapse. Believe it or not, I mentioned this to my ob/gyn and he just dismissed it with a "hmmm" and a bewildered look. Same ob/gyn who delivered my babies.

So, that's my story..at least part of it. I'll have to print this page and work on it for Louise's new forum!

Goodnight Blue! I am glad you came to WW! We have so much in common and it's nice that we keep cracking up the women on WW! Scary thing is, I don't think we're even trying!! LOL!

Warmest regards and BIG ((Hugs)),

Mae (perhaps soon-to-be Mac!)

Mae

May 29, 2008 - 10:35pm

P.S. Blue,

I just inserted the sponge as far up as I could..nothing forward..just up, up and away. Think I'll try up and forward next time like Sue suggested. I think if we keep trying different things we might just find the "thing" that works for us!

Good night!

Mae

louiseds

May 30, 2008 - 12:25am

Hi Wholewomen

Glad the sponging is going well. Just a thought on attaching the dental floss. You could start sewing at the bottom of the sponge, leaving a long tail, thread it in and out from back to front a couple of times until you get to the top, pass the floss over the top and back in and out the same holes until you get to the bottom, then tie the ends together. This will reinforce the whole length of the sponge as well, so the attachment point to the sponge won't rip off if you pull too hard, and you won't have to call the fire brigade, with their extra long ladder, to retrieve the rest of the sponge! ;-)

I will never look at a fire engine on its way to a fire in the same way again!

Cheers

Louise

Blue

May 30, 2008 - 8:20am

We sure do seem to have a lot in common, Mae! - I'm really glad to have found WW and to have you and all the Whole Women gang to hang with (no pun intended = : ) and learn from. This thread has been both informative and fun, I agree. Hey, as long as we're laughing in posture, what harm will it do, eh? Hmmm, maybe I've finally reached the point where I'm pretty much cried out about the fall of my affairs, which would be cool. Thank you for sharing your story, Mae, and for sponging around with me. It sure helps not to have to journey alone. ((BIGHUGS))

This isn't so much funny as sad, but I found that with the advent of menopause, I've had to find new ways to work around this sieve-like memory of mine, so fearing that I might completely forget that I'm sporting a sponge when life gets so busy, and since I don't have a private powder room where I can just leave a sticky-note in plain sight, I cut a square of kitchen sponge to leave on the bathroom's window sill as a reminder. It works = : D

Oh, re: "perhaps soon to be Mac!" lolol - Just stay Mae, Mae, and name your sponge Mac. = ; )

Breathe and be good

Hangin' in there,
~♥Blue
---
"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain."

Blue

May 30, 2008 - 9:01am

LOL I'm just trying to imagine Mae's 911 call! = ; )

Louise, that's it! I was imagining something similar, stitching farther up into the body of the sponge for security's sake, but just couldn't quite sort it out and find the words to say what I meant. You always come through!... and better yet, 'before' the trucks show up! Cool! = : D

Here's to makin' your day a great one!

Hangin' in there,
~♥Blue

"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain."

Mae

May 30, 2008 - 3:10pm

That is a great idea! Louise's ideas and thoughts are never just sew-sew (sorry, couldn't resist) they are always right on. I will definitely try that. Anything to make me feel more secure about not losing that sponge again! Besides, I shutter thinking about having to make that 911 call!!! Now wouldn't that just make their day! Louise is right, we'll never look at an emergency vehicle the same way again! Oh well, it'll make us chuckle and goodness knows, we can always use more of that!

I love the idea Blue, about naming my sponge Mac! LOL! If he gets a condom, as Alemama suggested, that will definitely be HIS name. Thanks for everyone's input. It's been a great help and lots of fun! Now who would have thought we could have "fun" with our prolapses! Thank goodness we are all in this together and we have each other.

I was thinking the other day about when I was teaching Kindergarten. I remembered how much I use to love to read to the children from Robert Fulghum's writing, All I Really Need To Know I Learned In Kindergarten. One of the things he says is "When you go out into the world, watch out for traffic, hold hands, and stick together." I was thinking about how that could apply to WW...and I think it does. We can't hold hands, but we can.. When we go out into the world, watch out for doctors, hold hearts, and stick together.

Not that I think doctors would do any harm intentionally. I just don't think they look at the big picture when it comes to prolapse. The only thing they have to offer, other than surgery, is a pessary. There certainly are many more things (as we have all learned, or are learning) that can be tried to make a prolapse manageable. That said...I'm going to go resew my sponge!

Have a great weekend everyone.

(((Hugs)))

Mae

louiseds

May 31, 2008 - 1:31am

Oh yes, yes Mae!

I just love that quote from Robert Fulghum. We are never too old to learn new things, and the rules for cooperating in the world are just the same when we are 50 as when we are 5.

On the same theme, I will never look at Sponge Bob through the same eyes again either. DS2 has a picture of Sponge Bob as the desktop image for his login on my computer, so I get to see his happy face quite often when DS2 is home. Sponge Bob would never wear a condom, not in the kids version anyway! But if he ever starts sporting a string we will be the only ones who know that he has had a career change. You never know, he might fall in love with a sea sponge one day. We know where her holiday home will be, don't we!

Cheers

Louise, aka Sew-sew.

Mae

May 31, 2008 - 9:26am

LOL Louise! I have been thinking a lot about Sponge Bob lately. His name just seems to flow when I say Sponge. However, I wouldn't call my sponge by that name. Don't think I really want to have Sponge Bob checking out my private parts! :-)

Have a great weekend!

Mae

goldfinch1

May 31, 2008 - 10:27am

Hi Blue & Mae:
Sorry it's taken me so long to jump in here, but since I have tried the sponge, I wanted to make my experience part of the learning curve.

I have a uterine prolapse (UP) with a 'slight' cystocele and no rectocele (that I have ever felt or detected). I bought sponges from Jade & Pearl - a very nice company. When my order came it included 1 big and 1 small sponge. I called them and after they found out what I intended to use the sponges for, they sent me another big one for free.

I trimmed the big sponge that I had, wet it as instructed, and had no problem putting it in (I put it where I used to put my diaphragm). My UP was now up and I left the sponge in for about 5 hours with no problems. I felt wonderful. Sometimes people with UP can't keep a sponge in because the UP pushes it right out, but my sponge stayed up.

Can you hear the 'HOWEVER' coming? However, when I decided to remove the sponge, I decided to take a look first. And much to my dismay, there was a cystocele large as life. Since the UP was now out of the way, my cystocele moved in to take it's place. I quickly lied down and removed my sponge (no problem but very itchy). Needless to say, the sponge landed in the garbage never to be seen again.

As Louise and Christine have very often said, a UP acts as 'natures' pessary. With my UP, everything else stays where it belongs. I much prefer having a UP than dealing with a cystocele. So no more sponges for me.

I'm glad that you're both having success with the sponges. Just keep an eye on what is going on.

Goldfinch

'Life is not holding a good hand; Life is playing a poor hand well'

Mae

May 31, 2008 - 3:32pm

Hi Goldfinch,

I was thinking about you the other day! I was wondering how you are doing with the Replens. Nice to hear from you again.

Thanks for the info about your experience with the sponge. Your experience is exactly the kind of thing that has me a little concerned. I sure don't want to go making more problems for myself. I will definitely keep a close eye on what's going on.

I didn't trim this sponge, like I did the last one. I was afraid that maybe I trimmed the first one too much and that was why my prolapse overtook it. I left this one full size which I think is why it held everything up so well. I'll need to experiment a little more though, since the last time I tried it came out soaked with urine!

Off to see the grandsons tomorrow. :-) I am sure Monday morning I will be nursing my prolapse back to it's usual state!

Have a great rest of the weekend.

Warmest regards,

Mae

Clonmacnoise

May 31, 2008 - 7:02pm

Mae and Blue,

I've been reading your posts on your success with the sponges and I'm very grateful to you both for encouraging me to "get in the game" again.

I bought the sponges months ago and tried them once and they hurt like hell. I figure it was vaginal dryness. I started using Replens but have had the oddest curdling stuff as a discharge after I use it. Looks a little like cottage cheese. It also burns on and off and there are times when it feels like I've got a red hot poker in my vagina. I have a horrible time with most things, and keep pretty much to natural things or nothing at all.

I've been wearing a pad to offset the feeling of the prolapse lately because I've had to be on my feet umteen hours day in and day out, and a pad sometimes disguises things.

Today I took the plunge and used the sponge again and it worked great! I left it in most of the day and I didn't feel it, or feel the prolapse nor did the thing hurt.

Thanks so much for taking the plunge first.

Alemama talked about olive oil as a lubricant for vaginal dryness. I plan to use that instead of the Replens for a while.

I too am the mother of large babies - 9; 8.5; 8; 7.5 - my tiny nub. My eldest is 36, youngest 23.

Anyway, best to you both, thanks so much.

Judy

Mae

June 1, 2008 - 7:05am

Hi Judy,

I am wondering how many more of us with these prolapses have recently, or in the past, had large babies. Very interesting.

As for the Replens Judy, I had the same exact kind of discharge when I started using it. Cottage cheese like is a good description of what mine looked like as well. It was at it's worst after sex. But, I decided it looked pretty harmless, no blood or mucus and the benefits were so great from the Replens that I continued using it. After a while the discharge stopped completely. I'm wondering if maybe it was just giving me a good cleansing. I've never been one to douche and maybe that's kind of what the Replens was doing in the beginning.

The olive oil sounds great for the vulva and I might try that too. However, I really feel that I need something higher up in the vagina as well, which, of course is what the Replens is great for.

Well, I hope you have a great Sunday. We're off to see our grandsons who live about 2 hours from us. I miss that they don't live as close to us as they use to, but at least they are only a couple of hours away.

Warmest regards,

Mae

Blue

June 1, 2008 - 7:49pm

lolol - Bob...A career change!! lolol

Louise, do you realize the pelvic pressure you're causing?! = : D This thread has been too fun.

Hangin' in there,
~♥Blue

"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain."

Blue

June 1, 2008 - 8:10pm

Goldfinch, thank you for sharing your own sponge experience within this thread. Your 'however' does give me pause for more thought as I have wondered myself whether altering the banks and curves of our prolapsed vaginas could make way for one thing or another to move into the space of the displaced, as it can w/surgical alterations. Again, thank you for the heads-up, I will definitely keep an eye on things.

Judy, Re: Replens -- I noticed the same type of discharge with my first application of the product (just a bit the first day or two, but I was ready for it after reading the FAQ's included on the leaflet that came in the box:
"Some women notice a residue after initial use of Replens. This is caused by the elimination of dead skin cells. Your body naturally sheds dry vaginal tissue that has built up over time. Replens enhances the renewal process and leaves softer, more supple tissue behind. When used on a regular basis, Replens will help prevent the build up of dead skin cells and the discharge should dissipate. If it does not dissipate, you may wish to wait an extra day or two between applications. While use is recommended every three days, every woman is unique and you may wish to increase or decrease the amount of time between applications to maximize moisture and minimize discharge." - Hope this helps = : )

I give both you and Mae great credit for your sponge replunge since your previous experiences - Brave women!

BTW, I went for a long bike ride on smoothly paved trails with DH today and in hindsight (pun intended), it might have served me well to have sported that sponge of mine - Something I may try my next time out.

Mae - I hope your day spent with those little guys of yours was a great one! And as you may need tomorrow (Mon) for your prolapse to recover, I just may need mine for that as well after my bike-ride this afternoon. I wanted you to know that your previous sharing (early on in this same thread), that each new 'dayafter' for you dawns with the knowledge that it can be better, kept me from falling when I noticed that my prolapse did this afternoon...tomorrow is indeed another day! = : D Thank you again.

Good evening gals!

Hangin' in there,
~♥Blue

"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to dance in the rain."

Mae

June 2, 2008 - 7:53pm

Hi Blue,

Thanks for the info. I guess I was getting a good cleansing with the Replens as I suspected! I must not have been too worried about it or I would have checked the information leaflet that came in the box!

Ahh, another Replens reward! One more thing to love about that product. They should use me as their product promoter.

Hope all is well with you. Glad I have you thinking about what a good day tomorrow can be when you are having a "not so good" day. When that happens to me I try to think about what I did that made for a bad day. It's usually one of two things: 1) lifting something that was too heavy for me to lift, and/or 2)eating things I shouldn't..like pizza, pasta, starches and the all time big culprit...too much salt! I would imagine being out of posture would cause one to have a bad day as well, but I have pretty much determined that I am usually in posture.

My Monday (today) wasn't so bad. The boys spent most of the day yesterday in the pool (it's been sooo hot here) so I didn't do a lot of running around with them. I resisted jumping on the trampoline with them..they had friends over and didn't need to be entertained by Grandma. So, today wasn't so bad. A little Replens and some of Christine's balm and I was good to go!

Have a great week!

Warmest (or may I should say hottest!) regards,

Mae

Blue

June 2, 2008 - 11:41pm

I'm glad to hear that your Monday was a good one, Mae. Nothing like a bit of R&R (rest & Replens) topped off with Christine's balm, eh? Good deal. Mine was fine as well, thank you for asking. I didn't wake up with any residual soreness from my bike ride despite how I was feeling the evening before; proving you correct on that score! = : ) That soreness was likely due to a combination of things, my prolapse, of course, and then the nature of those bike seats anyhow = : p Anyway, not being due for a Replens application, I just reached for the KY this morning and postured through my day. (need to order some of Christine's balms).

I'm thinking that yesterday, posture-wise, much of the key positions were lost due to my beloved bike's make-up. Its style and size is such that I'm acutely angled at the hips in order to reach the grips, which in itself isn't such a bad thing, but what with my lower belly being scrunched from such a bend for such a prolonged period of time, I'm thinking that my pelvic organs were probably hard pressed to find much room there while I was exerting... besides that, leaning the weight of my upper body forward on my arms prevents me from being able to keep my shoulders down; and combined with my leaning, probably didn't allow for much lumbar curve, either ( I failed to keep track of that key point). I just hope that the cardio and psychological benefits I gained (I love cycling!) weren't at the expense of doing further permanent harm prolapse-wise. The great company, fair weather and beautiful scenery, woodland and riverside, had the makings of a most perfect ride if only I hadn't been hobbled by these d@#% parts of me that seem so hellbent on venturing out on their own... Ah well, such is life now, I guess...

Re Replens cleansing. There's a lot to be said about the product, that's for sure... And you betcha, it would serve them very well to take you on as their promoter. Thank you again for singing it's praises, Mae - I'm sold! = : ) Oh btw, I hope you didn't overlook the discount coupon on that leaflet!

You know, speaking of Replens, I was thinking about my initial question that started this thread: whether the sponge might possibly absorb the Replens and keeping us from garnering all the good that we could... Well, now I'm thinking, being that the product is labeled a moisturizer (as opposed to a lubricant or protective coating/barrier), that allowing time for it to be absorb into the vaginal tissue would likely prevent it from being absorbed by the wet sponge, given that it's inserted later? I don't know if that's correct, but should a day I opt to sport the sponge coincides with a Replens application, I'll hold off for a while before inserting the sponge.

I hope you're beating the heat, Mae. While you refrained from jumping on the trampoline with the boys, yesterday, I hope you found a chance to jump into that pool too - At any rate, stay cool!

Wishing you a great week too. = : )

Breathe and be good

~♥Blue

louiseds

June 3, 2008 - 1:42am

Just a thought, Tweedledum and Tweedledee

What about putting the Replens in at night instead of the morning so it can be absorbed all night? You wouldn't need the sponge at night. Then re-sponge in the morning. Perhaps wait until your night time extra curriculars have wound up before puttng the Replens in?

(I wonder what Replens would do to a man's penis?)

Cheers

Louise

Mae

June 3, 2008 - 6:31am

You would think I would learn my lesson Louise! Coffee almost right out the nose again as I read your post! Now why didn't I think about using the Replens at night? Great idea. I am not NEARLY as creative as you are obviously, because it never entered my mind my mind about what Replens might do to a penis! Guess it would cleanse and moisturize it as it does with the vagina. We need to find out! You first Louise!!

LOL!

Tweedledum

Mae

June 3, 2008 - 7:09am

Hi Blue,

I am glad to see you are working on figuring out a way to be comfortable riding the bike. I have faith that you will work it out. I wish I could offer some advice, but other than the stationary bike in our exercise room, I haven't been on a bike in years.

However, your post inspired me to go sit on the stationary bike and see if it bothered my prolapse. Didn't bother my prolapse, but it sure was uncomfortable on my butt, as usual. On a good note, while I was there I went ahead and did a little exercise! So, thanks for getting my morning off to a good start!

Check out Louise's post about using the Replens at night and then the sponge the next morning. Great idea! That takes care of the worry about the sponge absorbing the Replens! I'm going to try that.

What would we do without Louise!? You'll see in my post I've asked her to do some research for us! I'm sure she'll do a great job!

Have a good one!

Mae

louiseds

June 3, 2008 - 9:01am

Funny you should say that Tweedledum

Looks like it is off to the pharmacy tomorrow for me. I have been thinking about using some myself anyway.

Have a look on the sheet that came with it. No fine print about penises?

Watch this space...

L

Mae

June 3, 2008 - 9:31am

Welcome to the T & T play group Louise!! LOL!!! Nope! Nothing in the packet regarding penises. The ball is back in your court!

Warmest regards,

T-Dum

Blue

June 3, 2008 - 9:04pm

__"What about putting the Replens in at night instead of the morning so it can be absorbed all night?"__

*BLINK* *BLINK*

What???? -at night?... Of course. Yes. at night!!! -- Brrrrilliant!!! = : D

LOL -Louise, you are so dear to wait for us to catch up like you do, kiddo. Thank you! ((HUGS))

~♥Tweedledee

Blue

June 3, 2008 - 9:34pm

Gosh, Mae... Between the Replens and the coffee your mucosae are sure getting moisturized! You might want to take care and coaster that mug while threading through this neck of the woods, the way Louise takes us!

Yep, it looks like you're 'it', Louise, as I'm going to second Mae's, "You first!" - It just never occurred to me either as to how the Replens might affect the penis, but I guess it naturally follows that there should be some sort of side benefits -Interesting!

~♥Blue

Blue

June 3, 2008 - 9:39pm

Ah cool - another biker chic! I'm glad I was able to motivate you even in my complaining state, Mae. Way to move, breathe and be good!

My stationary's wide seat is significantly more comfortable than my hybrid cycle's v-crusher (and the seat's a replacement with a recess for tender tissue, highly recommended by a bike-shop owner/ road-bike cyclist). Actually, now that I think about it, it was irritating pre-prolapse too on the long vigorous rides -such is the nature of cycling, me thinks. I recovered quickly though, Mae, so that's the good thing, right? I'll make a point next time to stand off the saddle more often and/or dismount for short breaks (and enjoy the nature) to see if that helps some.

I'm sorry 'bout my earlier prolapse-grumbling; it's just the thought of its foreverness that gets me down sometimes, causing me to throw such pity parties. Thanks for your patience, Mae.

Oh, and as for Louise - SO quick-minded, practical, and imaginative, to boot! I'm thinking that without her, I'd probably still be going around the block to get next door! = : ) Thanks for your sage advice and wisdom, Louise!

Hope your Tuesday's been a good one, gals!

~♥Blue

Blue

June 3, 2008 - 9:45pm

__"Watch this space..."__

Way to step up, Louise! = : )

That's what I like, team players! There's Mae covering product promotion and now Louise heading up clinical trials - What more could anyone ask for!

Ahem, while I couldn't find any specific penis related references in the product's leaflet, if the touted terms: 'relief', 'rejuvenated' and 'moisturized', not to mention: 'gained integrity and elasticity!' end up highlighted in your study's conclusion, I'm thinking' it might behoove us to purchase stock... Carry on L! = : D

~♥Blue (T-dee? lol)

kit

June 4, 2008 - 7:14am

I haven't been here of late, too many reasons to list.

But I wanted to tell you that I enjoyed reading this thread. :-)
You are all so good to share your in-depth (pun intended)
discoveries and experiences.

Plus you’re just so lovely, loving, and so fun. Kit

Mae

June 6, 2008 - 12:18pm

Well I see by your post that you bought the Replens to try! I am watching this space as you requested!! LOL!

Smiles,

T-Dum

louiseds

June 7, 2008 - 3:56am

Morning,Post-coital.

L: Does my vagina feel different?
DH: Huh?
L: Does my vagina feel different from how it usually feels?
DH: Huh?
L: How does my vagina feel different?
DH: Huh?
L: What does my vagina feel like in comparison to how it usually feels?
DH: Ummmm ... ummm ...
L: Does it feel plumper?
DH: Waddaya mean, plumper? (Lightglobe goes on in head) Yeah, it feels much plumper!

Twenty minutes later, ...
L: What does it do to your penis?
DH: As long as it doesn't turn green and fall off, it doesn't matter.
L: How has it affected your penis?
DH: (From bathroom) It's all wet!
L: What's all wet?
DH: My fingers!
L: Wha???
DH: (Walks in and shows how penis has made fingers wet, because penis is quite damp (from glycerin?)

Later in the day, DH's penis has not yet gone soggy or dissolved.

For the longer term report, watch this space ...

Mae

June 7, 2008 - 8:07am

You are too much Louise! Luckily I put my coffee cup down before I read this. Takes me a while but I finally do catch on!! Poor DH, he probably has no idea he's our guinea pig...although I am quite sure he's enjoying the test!

Have a great weekend!

T-Dum

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