Whenever skin care oils are in question, we can’t help but wonder what a certain oil is composed of, who makes it, who recommends it, the extent of its popularity, and whether it’s actually compatible with your skin. In addition, we consider safety, accessibility, and affordability.
The same oil preference theory applies when considering the best possible oil to conduct perineal massages.
One could wonder, “What is perineal massage?” Perineal massage refers to a massage procedure of the perineum carried out by expectant mothers in their third trimester. The aim of a perineal massage is to alleviate or rather lessen the pain that is normally associated with childbirth. It’s especially useful in countering perineum tears.
One cannot define what perineal massage is, the necessary procedures that it consists of, and its general effectiveness without mentioning the vital significance of a perineum massage oil.
Perineal massage oil simply refers to any kind of oil preferably chosen by the person in question to aid in conducting perineal massage. The oil to use is simply a dilemma of its own accord, one that will be addressed in this article. We’ll also list the preferably best perineum massage oils.
Samples of the Best Perineal Massage Oils
The quality of the oils indicated below in facilitating perineal massage is commendable, depending on the preference and effect it has on the user. All the oils below have the added advantage of being naturally organic.
Coconut Oil
From time immemorial, coconut oil has been a darling to the skin. Its application when conducting perineum massage is thus no surprise.
Coconut oil has moisturizing properties that aid in the trapping of moisture within the perineum, keeping it supple and flawlessly hydrated. This induced flexibility plays a vital role in keeping the perineum elastic, vitally reducing instances of perineal tearing during labor.
Coconut is oily and thus slowly absorbed by the skin, which allows for longer massage times.
Coconut oil is also known for its ability to quicken circulation, which ensures adequate blood flow in the perineum, minimizing possible damages caused by perineal tear. Coconut oil additionally possesses both anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties as an added advantage as it is highly recommended for the occasional chafing or irritation of the perineum.
Another plus with coconut oil is the diversity and adaptability it possesses in that its 99% compatible with all kinds of skin with relatively low cases of allergies – thus highly recommended.
Coconut oil can easily be accessed at any convenience store or online at relatively low prices.
Olive Oil
This is another common product that offers a wide variety of uses, perineal massage being one of them. To begin with, it is as natural and as organic and nourished with vitamins as it comes. Olive oil also serves as an efficient massage oil credited with the ability of soothing a sore perineum.
Research has shown that conducting perineal massage using olive oil reduces the chances of an episiotomy. Episiotomy is basically the cutting of the perineum during childbirth for easier labor. It is considered a better alternative to letting the perineum tear naturally, which could result in a much more severe injury.
Olive oil contains properties that rejuvenate and strengthen the skin around the perineum, reducing instances of tearing during childbirth.
Olive oil is generally well tolerated in a large spectrum of the population, with relatively low cases of allergies and other toxic side effects. The organic oil is easily accessible and arguably pocket friendly at any convenience store near you.
Almond Oil
Sweet almond is an organic oil known for a high concentration of skin replenishing vitamins and fatty acids and the ability to keep the skin hydrated – completely ideal for your perineum.
It is attributed to long perineum massage time due to how it’s slowly absorbed by the skin. It is relatively oily enough to enable smooth and swift maneuvers during massages.
Almond oil is, however, not recommended for perineal massages if you are prone to yeast infections.
Conclusion
Sunflower oil, sesame oil, apricot, and shea butter are among natural and organic oils recommended as among the best massage oils for the perineum. Inorganic oils such as petroleum jelly, baby oil and mineral oil, water soluble lubricants, and cream products are not recommended.
The choice of oil is entirely dependent on your preferred taste and convenience in terms of accessibility and affordability.
Last but not least, it ought to be nourishing and compatible with your perineum.