Showering right after mikveh

29 February, 2016

Question:

I have been experiencing pain during and after sex, after going to the mikvah. A friend recommended that I try taking a shower directly after the mikvah in case the water was irritating my body in some way. I was taught by my kallah teacher that we don't shower in the mikvah after the mikvah – because it is seen as an insult to Hashem and his house. I was wondering if that concept is a halachic concept? Or more of an idea? Would I need a heter to take a shower in the mikvah?

Answer:

There is a halacha that one may not shower off at the mikveh after immersion, to prevent the erroneous belief that one becomes tehorah by taking a shower rather than by immersing in the mikveh.

You may wash the vaginal area immediately after immersion, but if you wish to shower off completely, you should do so at home after having some type of physical contact with your husband.

You can speak to the mikveh attendant and tell her you suspect the water is irritating you, and to check whether the mikveh is being over or under chlorinated.

Be sure to use plenty of lubricant during relations, and go slowly and gently to prevent discomfort.

If the situation does not improve, we recommend speaking to your doctor for a recommendation for a sex therapist or a urogynecological physical therapist.

Please feel free to get back to us with any further questions.

B'hatzlacha!

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