Becoming a mother is one of the most beautiful experiences in life. But along with that joy, we don't talk much about the discomfort and pain that a mother's body feels after giving birth. In particular, the pain around the vagina after giving birth is something that many mothers experience. So today, let's talk about this condition. Don't worry, this is normal in most cases, and there are many things that can be done about it.
What is a perineal tear?
Simply put, the skin between your vagina and anus is called the perineum. During a vaginal birth, when the baby comes out, this area is put under a lot of pressure. This pressure can sometimes cause this area to tear. This is called a perineal tear.
Sometimes, if the baby needs to be born with a larger opening, the doctor will make a small incision in that area. This is called an episiotomy.
Even if you get a cut or tear like this, the doctor will put a few stitches in to help the wound heal. These stitches are dissolvable, so they will dissolve on their own in a few weeks. So you don't need to cut them out. It's normal to see bits of these stitches on your pad or toilet paper when you use the toilet.
Just think, if the wound is very small, the doctor might be able to let it heal on its own without stitches.
Depending on the depth and length of the wound, it can take four to six weeks to fully heal. The pain is most noticeable right after the baby is born. It is normal to feel discomfort when walking, sitting, urinating , and defecating for the first week or so. Remember that every mother's body, wound, and healing process is different. So, while taking care of your body, stay in touch with your doctor.
Other common symptoms after childbirth
After having a baby, it's normal to focus all your attention on your new baby. But it's also important to take care of your physical and mental well-being. Along with vaginal pain, you may experience the following symptoms.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Vaginal Discharge | After the baby is born, the mucous membranes in the body are mixed with blood and released. This discharge, which is initially red and often comes out, becomes watery over a few weeks and gradually disappears. |
| Uterine contractions (Afterpains) | For a few days after giving birth, you may experience menstrual-like pain. This is especially true when breastfeeding. This is because the blood vessels in the uterus constrict, which stops the bleeding. |
| Difficulty controlling urination (incontinence) | During pregnancy and childbirth, the pelvic floor muscles become stretched and weakened. Therefore, when you laugh, cough, or sneeze, you may accidentally leak a little urine. Use a sanitary napkin for this. Also, ask your doctor about exercises you can do to control your bladder. |
| Hemorrhoids | If you feel severe pain when you defecate, check for swelling around the anus. These are called hemorrhoids. Don't stop defecating because of the pain. Drink plenty of water and eat foods high in fiber (fruits, vegetables). |
| Sore Breasts | Within a few days of having a baby, your milk will come in. Your breasts will become hard and sore. If you are breastfeeding, breastfeed frequently. This will help reduce engorgement. |
| Mood swings | Your hormones are changing a lot during this time, so you may experience things like irritability, sadness, and insomnia. If these symptoms don't improve within a few weeks, see your doctor to discuss postpartum depression. |
Things you can do at home to reduce this pain
If you have a perineal tear, try these things to help manage the pain:
- Apply ice: To reduce swelling and pain, apply an ice pack or a few ice cubes wrapped in a clean cloth to the painful area for about 10-15 minutes.
- Be careful when sitting: Use a pillow or a round cushion with a hole in the middle (p ADD ed ring) when sitting.
- Wash with warm water: When urinating , fill a squeeze bottle with warm water and wash the perineum area with that water. This will greatly reduce the inflammation.
- Sitz Bath: Fill a bathtub with lukewarm water, just enough to cover your waist, and sit in it for a few minutes. If hot water is uncomfortable, you can also use cold water.
- Painkillers : Use painkillers recommended by your doctor .
- Prevent constipation: Take a stool softener as directed by your doctor. This will reduce the pain you feel during bowel movements.
When should you see a doctor immediately?
While it is normal to feel some discomfort after giving birth, there are some symptoms that we should be especially concerned about. These could be signs of an infection or other serious condition. If you have any of the following symptoms, see your doctor immediately or go to the hospital's Emergency Department (ETU).
| Warning Sign | Things to watch out for |
|---|---|
| Heavy bleeding | If the bleeding is so heavy that you need to change more than one pad per hour. |
| Passing large blood clots | If blood clots larger than the size of a coin are passed. |
| Fever and colds | If your body temperature is over 100.4°F (38°C) and you are feeling cold and shivering. |
| Severe headache or dizziness | If you often feel faint, dizzy, or have a persistent severe headache. |
| Wound infection | If your suture site (cut or tear) is swollen and oozing pus. |
| An unusual odor | If your vaginal discharge has a very strong, unusual odor. |
| Difficulty breathing | If you have chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or difficulty breathing. |
| Leg pain | If the area is red and swollen along with pain in the leg. |
Let's also learn about physical activity.
You may need to limit some physical activities until the wound is completely healed.
- Rest: Get as much rest as possible whenever you feel tired. Get some sleep when your baby is sleeping.
- Walking: Take a short walk every day. It improves blood circulation and prevents constipation.
- Avoid strenuous exercise: Avoid strenuous exercise such as cycling, running, or lifting weights until the injury has healed.
- Heavy lifting: As much as possible, do not lift anything heavier than your baby's weight.
- Sexual intercourse: Avoid sexual intercourse until your doctor checks and says the wound is completely healed.
Take-Home Message
- It's normal to experience vaginal pain after giving birth. Don't be afraid or embarrassed about it.
- Give your body time to heal. Be patient. Don't compare yourself to others.
- There are many simple treatments that can help reduce pain. Follow them.
- If the pain is getting worse day by day, or if you have any of the warning signs mentioned above, never ignore it. See a doctor immediately.
- If you need help during this time, don't hesitate to ask family or friends for help. Your physical well-being is just as important as your mental well-being.
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