Many women worry about questions regarding the need for an episiotomy.  An episiotomy is a procedure in which a small cut is made between the floor of the vagina and the rectum.  This procedure is done during labor, if it seems as though delivery requires it.  

The idea is to cut before the stretching process forces a tear. Since a planned surgical cut is easier to fix and heals better than a tear, an episiotomy is a helpful option in many cases.  Even so, some doctors may use the procedure when not entirely necessary and recent studies show that an episiotomy is not necessarily better for you than a natural tear, in the long run.  Your doctor shouldn't choose to cut if unnecessary, but you should make your preferences about the procedure clear in advance.

The process is painless when it is done, since you will be either under the influence of epidural or local anesthetic.  After delivery the stitches might be painful and feel quite uncomfortable, when sitting or using the toilet. There are special donut shaped pillows which may help you sit more comfortably while you are healing and special ice pads you can use to sooth the area. Not to worry though, the healing process is fairly quick and infections quite rare.

There are vaginal exercises or massages you can do, in order to increase the flexibility of the vagina thereby reducing the need for an episiotomy. 

Vaginal Massage

Massaging your vagina in the last weeks before giving birth has very good results when it comes to tears and the need for episiotomies.  You can either do them yourself or have your partner do them for you.  Basically, what you do is gently expand your vagina and make your perineal area more flexible.  When your body is relaxed and hands clean and lubricated insert your thumbs into the vagina and gently start stretching towards your rectum.  You might feel a slight burning sensation, but it will only prepare you for the burning sensation you might feel during labor when crowning.  Continue to massage the surrounding area, carefully stretching your vagina as you can imagine the baby's head will.

There are also many appliances which may substitute or add to your own massaging.

Kegel Exercises

Read more about Kegel Pelvic Floor Exercises
 

Comments (0)

Subscribe to this comment's feed