Perineal massage is a great way to reduce the risk of tearing during childbirth and ease the discomfort of an episiotomy. The perineum is the tissue between the vaginal opening and the anus. It’s also the area that stretches during childbirth to allow the baby to pass through. To do perineal massage, you’ll need – Lubricant (You can use any lubricant, but we recommend KY jelly) – A clean finger – A toilet or chair with a backrest. Before starting, ensure your hands are clean and your nails are trimmed short.
What is perineal massage?
Perineal massage is a type of massage that is used to help reduce the likelihood of tearing during childbirth. It involves using pressure and circular motions on the perineum, the area between the vagina and the anus.
There are many benefits to perineal massage, including:
– Reduced risk of tearing during childbirth
– Reduced pain during childbirth
– Reduced healing time after childbirth
– Improved bowel function after childbirth
Perineal massage is typically done in the last few weeks of pregnancy, but it can be started earlier if desired. Doing perineal massage with clean hands and lubricant such as coconut oil or vitamin E oil is best.
Why do perineal massage?
There are many benefits of perineal massage, which is why healthcare professionals recommend it. For pregnant women, perineal massage can help to prepare the body for childbirth by stretching and softening the perineum. This can help to reduce the risk of tearing during delivery. Perineal massage can also help to improve sexual function and reduce pain during sex. In men, perineal massage can help to improve urinary continence and reduce the risk of erectile dysfunction.
When to do perineal massage
Perineal massage is most commonly done in the last few weeks of pregnancy but can be started earlier if the pregnant person desires. It can be done daily or every other day.
Perineal massage is believed to help prepare the perineum for stretching and possible tearing during childbirth. The perineum is the area between the vagina and the anus.
How to do perineal massage
The perineum is the area between the anus and the vulva or scrotum. Perineal massage is a way to stretch and prepare this area for childbirth.
Start by sitting on a comfortable surface with your legs relaxed and apart. You can use a mirror to help you see what you’re doing.
Place two fingers just inside the entrance to the vagina and press down towards the anus. Apply gentle pressure until you feel a slight bulge. This is the perineum.
Using a circular motion, massage the perineum in a clockwise direction for about 30 seconds. Then massage in a counter-clockwise direction for another 30 seconds. Repeat this process several times.
You may feel the urge to bear down or push as you massage. This is normal and means that the perineum is stretching. If, at any point, the pressure becomes too much, stop and take a break.
When you’re finished, wash your hands and give yourself some time to relax before continuing with your day.
What are the benefits of perineal massage?
Perineal massage is a technique that can be used to help prevent tissue damage during childbirth. It involves massaging the perineum, the area between the vagina and the anus.
There are several benefits of perineal massage, including:
- Reducing the risk of tearing during childbirth:
Perineal massage helps to stretch and soften the tissue in the perineum, which can make it less likely to tear during childbirth.
- Shortening the duration of labor:
Studies have shown that perineal massage can help shorten the duration of labor by up to 30 minutes.
- Decreasing the need for an episiotomy:
An episiotomy is a surgical incision in the perineum to enlarge the vaginal opening. Perineal massage can help reduce the need for this procedure by making the tissue more elastic and pliable.
Are there any risks associated with perineal massage?
Some risks are associated with perineal massage but are generally rare and can be easily avoided. The most common risk is tissue damage, which can occur if the massage is too vigorous. This can usually be avoided by using a lubricant and being careful not to massage too profoundly. Other risks include infection, bruising, or discomfort. These risks can also be minimized by using oil and being gentle.
Conclusion
Perineal massage is an easy and effective way to reduce your risk of tearing during childbirth. It only takes a few minutes each day, can be done in the comfort of your home, and doesn’t require any special equipment. So why not give it a try? Regular perineal massage makes you better prepared for an easier, more comfortable birth.