Perineal care after a vaginal birth
The perineum is the skin and soft tissue between your vagina and anus. It thins out and stretches over your baby as it is born.
Many women, however, need stitches to repair tears or cuts (an episiotomy) that occurred to this area during childbirth.
Keep your perineum clean by:
- showering daily, especially after you go to the toilet to open your bowels
- using the shower head or pouring water over the area to clean the skin and stitches
- change pads every 2–3 hours.
Keep your perineum dry – do not wipe the area but rather gently pat it dry with a clean towel
For the first six weeks after your baby is born avoid:
- salt baths
- powders and creams
- using tampons
- lifting anything heavier than your baby.
Good bowel habits can reduce the risk of constipation and straining.
Help reduce your discomfort by following the RICE principles – Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation
Rest
- Lie on your back, side or stomach when able, such as when playing with older children, cuddling baby or when baby is sleeping
Ice
- Apply an ice pack, wrapped in gauze or a face towel, to your perineum for 20 minutes every 2–4 hours for the first 72 hours after birth. Do not put ice directly against your skin. You can make an ice pack at home by soaking a clean pad in water and freezing it.
Compression
- Wear firm supportive underwear or 2 pads for the first 6 weeks after birth.
Elevation
- Lie on your back with pillows under your bottom.
- Avoid sitting for long periods.
Pain relief can also help. Take medication as prescribed by your doctor. Avoid pain relief medication with codeine and do not take any medication via the back passage.
More information
Find out more about physiotherapy after pregnancy, caring for you after birth, or return to the Maternity page.