My partner, a widow, has a ring of skin approximately 1" into her vagina that prevents my penetration past it. What is it and can it be "snipped" by a Dr.?

Hi, Anon, and welcome to Empowher!

Let's see what we can find out for you.

You say you are not certain she has had the bladder surgery, but you believe so? Is it possible to find out for sure? (Is she herself unsure?)

If she has had the surgery, it is possible that what you are feeling is not skin but a pessary, which is a device placed in the vagina to help hold the bladder (and/or uterus) in place. It is a small plastic device in the shape of a ring that is inserted in the vagina by a doctor who fits it according to each patient.

However, it seems unlikely that she would have this and not be aware of it, as it occasionally should be taken out for cleaning or other doctor's instructions. Also, it can be removed for intercourse.

Here's is some information on pessaries that may help you determine if it is what you are feeling:

http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/women/reproductive/gynecologic/578.html

http://www.ucsfhealth.org/adult/medical_services/womens_health/bladder_control/patientpessaries.html

Does this sound as though it might be what you are feeling? Can you ask your partner if she has had this surgery?