I too had the same concerns as you are having. Unfortunately, I waited too late for Bella. She had her first heat cycle and it wasn't fun at all for her. She kept herself very clean, but all the swelling is no fun, plus she was very aware and uncomfortable, you could tell. I wish I had her spayed earlier. You won't regret it. It's the best for her health. The Vet also explained that sometimes, some of the swelling will be permanent and progressively increase with each cycle.
