Perineum/Vulva Care

 

After giving birth, it’s normal to feel tender, swollen, or bruised around your perineum and vulva, even if you haven’t experienced any tearing or grazing. Some women may have tears or an episiotomy. The good news is that this area usually heals very well after birth because it has a rich blood supply.

There are many simple ways to stay comfortable while supporting your body’s natural healing.

Keeping the Area Clean

Change your maternity pads regularly to help keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection. Avoid using tampons for the first six weeks after birth, as they can increase the risk of infection in your uterus.

Reducing Swelling and Discomfort

Cold therapy can be very soothing in the first few days. You can make frozen pads by soaking a pad with water (witch hazel can be added if you like) and placing it in the freezer. Applying an ice pack to the perineum for up to 10 minutes at a time, every four hours or so, can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort.

Some women find herbal preparations, such as hypericum cream, helpful for comfort and healing.

Supporting Healing

• Gentle pelvic floor exercises, started when you feel ready, help increase blood flow to the area and support healing.
• A witch hazel–based perineal spray can also feel soothing - it can be helpful to choose a bottle that sprays upside down for easier use.
• Arnica drops are sometimes used to support healing and may help reduce bruising and support tissue repair.

Comfort Measures

• Warm baths can be very relieving. You might choose a regular bath, a sitz bath, or a bath soak with herbs or essential oils if you enjoy these.
• Using a peri bottle or squeezy bottle to pour warm water over your perineum while passing urine can reduce stinging, especially if you have had a tear or episiotomy.
• Ural sachets can help reduce the acidity of your urine. These are often started soon after birth and taken a few times a day if needed.
• If sitting is uncomfortable, a donut cushion can help relieve pressure.

Caring for Your Perineal Tear

If you have had a tear that required stitches, the stitches will usually dissolve within 1 to 2 weeks. It is common for the area to feel quite sore during this time, so good hygiene is especially important.

Shower at least once a day and gently clean the perineal area using water only. Pat the area dry carefully with a clean towel rather than rubbing. Continue to change sanitary pads regularly to keep the area clean and dry.

Drinking plenty of water can help prevent constipation, which reduces pressure on the stitches. Eating a healthy diet that includes fibre, such as fruit and vegetables, is also recommended. Regular pain relief can help keep you comfortable while healing.