Perineal tears: What every mum needs to know

Giving birth is an incredible journey, but we’re not going to lie, it can also be painful. Vaginal delivery can sometimes result in a perineal tear, which is a common but often uncomfortable experience for a new mother.
We will delve into what perineal tears are, their causes, healing time, pain management strategies, when to seek medical attention and tips for preventing a perineal tear from happening.
A perineal tear refers to a tear or laceration that occurs in the perineum, the area between the vagina and the anus, during childbirth.
These tears vary in severity, ranging from first-degree tears involving the skin to fourth-degree tears extending into the rectum.
While perineal tears are common, their healing process and discomfort can vary from woman to woman.
First-degree tear: Involves the skin of the perineum, usually minor and requiring minimal intervention.
Second-degree tear: Extends beyond the skin and involves the underlying perineal muscles, may require sutures for proper healing.
Third-degree tear: Extends through the perineal muscles and the anal sphincter complex, requiring careful repair to ensure proper healing and restoration of muscle function.
Fourth-degree tear: The most severe type, extending through the perineal muscles, anal sphincter and rectal lining, necessitating meticulous repair.
Perineal tears can be caused by various factors, including the size and position of the baby’s head during delivery, a rapid or prolonged delivery, the use of forceps or vacuum-assisted delivery, and limited flexibility of the perineal tissues.
Additionally, first-time mums and women giving birth to larger babies may be more susceptible to perineal tears.
While perineal tears are a common occurrence during childbirth, some complications may arise as a result:
Perineal infections can occur after giving birth and require prompt attention for proper treatment. Here are some signs to watch for:
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult your healthcare provider for an evaluation and appropriate treatment to prevent further complications.
The healing time for perineal tears depends on the severity of the tear and individual healing processes.
First-degree tears typically heal within a few weeks, while second-degree tears may take a few weeks to a couple of months.
Third- and fourth-degree tears require more time to heal, often up to several months.
If stitches are required to repair the tear, they will usually dissolve within six weeks.
During the healing period, it’s important to keep the area clean and dry, use a peri-bottle for gentle cleansing after using the bathroom and avoid constipation by staying hydrated and using a stool softener.
Women may experience some discomfort during this time, and it’s essential to watch for any signs of infection.
Dealing with pain from perineal tears after childbirth can be challenging and leave you in tears (no pun intended).
However, there are several home remedies you can try to help manage the discomfort and promote healing.
Here are some tips that can aid in speeding up the recovery process.
Remember, every individual’s healing process is unique, and it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice and guidance.
It’s important to contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, signs of infection (such as fever, increasing redness, or foul odour), or if you have difficulty urinating or having bowel movements.
Your healthcare provider can assess the tear, provide appropriate medical care and ensure proper healing.
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There is no surefire way to prevent perineal tears, but there are some strategies that might help reduce the risk:
Remember, while these strategies might help reduce the risk of perineal tears, there is no guaranteed way to prevent them entirely. Discuss these options with your healthcare provider for personalised advice and guidance.
This article was first published in theAsianparent.