WeMoms
2 Apr 2024
Promoting Perineal Healing After Vaginal Birth
Promoting Perineal Healing After Vaginal Birth
As you embark on your postpartum journey, tender care is essential, especially for your perineal area. Here are nurturing tips to aid your healing and comfort:
Tip 1 – Soothe in a Healing Bath
A postpartum sitz bath is a soothing embrace for your body after childbirth.
This bath eases pain, promotes healing, and ensures hygiene, especially if you've had an episiotomy or tearing.
Follow this recipe to create your own blend:
- Brew a tea using approximately one cup of dried herbs per liter of boiling water, letting it steep for 20 minutes before straining.
- This can be added to your bath, used to pour over your vulva and perineum after urination, or soaked into a chilled pad for relief.
Ingredients:
Tip 2 – Keep a Cooling Spray Handy
Create a postnatal spray using calendula tincture, aloe vera gel, and essential oils. Mix carefully, using 1% or less essential oil concentration. Chill and use as a spray or on pads. Another option is to mix Witch Hazel with lavender essential oil for a simple spray.
Tip 3 – Embrace Cooling Compresses
Cool compresses alleviate swelling and pain. Prepackaged compresses activate when bent, or you can make your own with maxi pads and water. Check out the link provided for a video tutorial.
Tip 4 – Navigate Poo with Care
Birth and postnatal experiences often trigger thoughts about bowel movements. Constipation can contribute to discomfort. Stay hydrated, eat high-fiber foods, and use recommended stool softeners. Don't delay using the bathroom when necessary.
Tip 5 – Indulge in Rest
After the incredible journey of birth, rest is your ally. Listen to your body, embrace offered help, and prioritize feeding, bonding, and resting. Allow your body the time it needs to heal and replenish. Perineal discomfort will ease with proper care.
Remember, you're deserving of gentle care and self-compassion during this transformative time. Your journey deserves tenderness and patience as you embark on the beautiful path of postpartum recovery. 🌿
