In your birth plan clearly state that you do not want an episiotomy unless absolutely necessary. Also, discuss the issue with your health care provider during routine prenatal care. Cunningham, F. Gary, et al, Ch. Scott, James R. It features meal recommendations, kicks counter, blood glucose tracking, and more. What is an episiotomy? How can I prevent the need to have an episiotomy? The following measures can reduce the need for an episiotomy: Good nutrition—healthy skin stretches more easily!
Kegels exercise for your pelvic floor muscles A slowed second stage of labor where pushing is controlled Warm compresses and support during delivery Use of perineum massage techniques Avoiding lying on your back while pushing Can they be harmful? Our consultants would be happy to help! Connect with us at customercare happiestbaby.
Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider. Added charges will apply for shipping to and from Alaska and Hawaii. By Happiest Baby Staff. You can try using a water-based lubricant available from pharmacies to help.
Do not use an oil-based lubricant, such as Vaseline or moisturising lotion, as this can irritate the vagina and damage latex condoms or diaphragms. You can get pregnant just 3 weeks after the birth of a baby, even if you're breastfeeding and your periods have not started again.
Use some kind of contraception every time you have sex after giving birth, including the first time unless you want to get pregnant again. You'll usually have an opportunity to discuss your contraceptive options before you leave hospital if you've had your baby in hospital and at the postnatal check. You can also talk to a GP, midwife or health visitor, or go to a contraception clinic at any time.
Find sexual health services near you. Look out for any signs that the cut or surrounding tissue has become infected, such as:. Tell a GP, midwife or health visitor as soon as you can about any possible signs of infection so they can make sure you get the treatment you might need. Strengthening the muscles around the vagina and anus by doing pelvic floor exercises can help with healing and will reduce the pressure on the cut and surrounding tissue.
Pelvic floor exercises involve squeezing the muscles around your vagina and anus as though to stop yourself from going to the toilet or farting. A midwife can explain how to do the exercises. You can also read this leaflet about pelvic floor exercises for women PDF, 68kb.
For a few women, excessive, raised or itchy scar tissue forms around the place where a tear happened or where an episiotomy was done. If your scar tissue is causing problems for you, tell your doctor.
A midwife can help you avoid a tear during labour when the baby's head becomes visible. The midwife will ask you to stop pushing and to pant or puff a couple of quick short breaths, blowing out through your mouth.
This is so your baby's head can emerge slowly and gently, giving the skin and muscles of the perineum time to stretch without tearing. The skin of the perineum usually stretches well, but it may tear, especially in women who are giving birth for the first time. Massaging the perineum in the last few weeks of pregnancy can reduce the chances of having an episiotomy during birth.
However, it is more likely if:. This page provides information on perineal massage while pregnant, and perineal protection at the time of birth.
From 35 weeks onwards, you or your partner can use daily perineal massage until your baby is born which may reduce your risk of tearing.
This is particularly beneficial for first-time mothers. You may choose to ask your partner to help you with this. Perineal massage. Your healthcare professional should also work with you to ensure that you have a slow and controlled birth. If you are concerned about tears or have any questions, speak to your healthcare professional. They will be able to discuss any increased risk factors related to your birth, and what they and you can do to try to prevent them.
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