Perineal trauma or tears happen when the area between the vagina and anus (back passage/ rectum) is damaged after giving birth. Once the placenta is delivered your midwife will check your perineum (the bit in between your vagina and back passage) for any tears. This is common and sometimes requires stitches to aid healing. Some women will have had an episiotomy (a cut to the perineum) that will require stitches. If you had an episiotomy or your vagina tears during the birth you will be offered for this to be repaired (using dissolving stitches) soon after birth, unless a tear is very superficial and would heal on its own.
The amount of damage is categorised into four degrees – you can find out more information regarding different types of tears by clicking here.
- You may have swelling and pain after tears or an episiotomy, especially when you go to the toilet to either pass urine or open your bowels. Regular pain relief should help with this.
- You will be encouraged to keep the area clean by showering or washing daily, ensuring regular hand washing and sanitary pad changes.
- Around 2-4 in 10 women who experience a tear extending to the anal sphincter or rectum will have longer-lasting problems. In rare cases this involves being unable to hold wind or control the bowel. Specialist treatment involves physiotherapy or surgery. You can access more information about injury to the anal sphincter or rectum by clicking here.
If you think you have an infection, your stitches aren’t healing, you are experiencing pain when having sex or you are experiencing any other symptoms you are worried about it is important you seek advice. Whilst you may feel embarrassed to seek support it is important you speak to your midwife, obstetrician or GP if you are experiencing any problems with your tears or pelvic floor to ensure you can get the right help.
You can also find more information on perineal tears and episiotomy and recovery at the following links: