Having a baby is an amazing and life-changing event, but it can also be tough on your body. One of the places you may experience some discomfort is your vagina and perineum (the area between your vagina and anus).
Here are some top tips for soothing your postpartum vagina and perineum:
- Rinse with warm water.
- Apply a cold compress to the area for a few minutes at a time.
- Use a perineal massage oil to help relieve discomfort and promote healing.
- Practice Kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing and avoid tight-fitting underwear or pants.
- Avoid constipation by eating a high-fiber diet and drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoid activities that put strain on the area, such as biking or horseback riding.
- Talk to your doctor about any pain or discomfort that doesn’t go away.
- Sit on a pillow. This will help take the pressure off your perineum and make you feel more comfortable.
- Take a sitz bath. A sitz bath is a warm water bath that you can take either in the tub or using a special sitting device. This can help reduce swelling and pain.
During childbirth, your vagina and perineum stretch a lot and sometimes tear. This is totally normal and happens to many women. You may have some stitches, which dissolve on their own or may need to be removed by a healthcare professional.
If you had a tear, you may be feeling pain, soreness, or discomfort when you urinate or have sex. These are all normal feelings and usually go away within a few weeks.
Talk to your healthcare provider if you’re still in pain after trying these tips. They may prescribe a stronger pain medication or suggest other treatments.
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