Overall, a cesarean section is an extremely safe operation. Even so, you may experience complications. Learn what you should know about these rare but… READ MORE Calling us costs the same as any local call, however, if you have free 'inclusive' minutes on a landline or mobile, it will be included in those. About There are several ways to perform manual therapy on the pelvic floor muscles. This will also help retrain the vaginal wall muscles to relax. Make sure to wash your hands with soap and water before starting. Below is a step by step guide on how to do it. Research has shown that massaging the perineum during late pregnancy may encourage elasticity and reduce the risk of tearing during childbirth. Where is my perineum?

Instead, expect perineal massage to be uncomfortable, including a burning sensation that will help prepare your body for the “ring of fire” many parents describe feeling when baby’s head crowns during delivery. Vaginal dilators are slender, tapered rods inserted into the vagina. They dilate the opening of the perineum. They come in various sizes and materials such as metal, plastic, or rubber. They are usually used with a lubricant or vaginal cream. This helps ease insertion.The goal of perineal massage is twofold–to improve the elasticity of your perineal muscles to easily stretch during labor, and to prepare your body for the burning sensation that will occur during the transition stage of labor. being propped up with pillows on a bed or sofa so you or your partner can reach your perineum more easily

During pregnancy, the pelvic floor muscles help to support the baby and need to be relaxed when the baby is born. Pregnancy hormones, extra weight and changes to the muscles and ligaments in the pelvis all cause strain, which can lead to weak pelvic floor muscles and incontinence. This allows our bodies ample time to gear up for labor, even if it happens early. What to use for Perineal Massage The perineum] is like a spider web of muscles that support the pelvic floor,” Dr. Goldstein explains. “They all basically converge with one another into a single unit. With that said, gentle pressure along or against the belly of the muscle is a great way to start.” If you spend much time hanging out on pregnancy forums, you might see recommendations to use coconut oil, or even olive oil, vegetable oil, almond oil, or sexual lubricants. The claim most moms make is that there’s no reason to pay for a specific perineal massage product when you could use a household product that does the exact same thing.Some people feel using water in labour helps reduce the chance of tearing, though evidence is mixed.

You’ll notice that, as the weeks progress, the massage becomes more and more comfortable. This is a good sign. A decrease in the burning sensation or feelings of discomfort indicates that you’re learning to relax as your perineum stretches, which is exactly the effect you want to support your perineal muscles through labor. Perineal Massage Pregnancy Expectations One of type of pelvic floor massage during pregnancy we recommend is perineal massage. Pelvic floor massage during pregnancy is different from a perineal massage. They each provide different benefits in different areas of the body. Most practitioners recommend beginning perineal massage 3-4 weeks before baby is expected to arrive. Don’t massage your perineum if you have an infection, including vaginal thrush, herpes, or any open cuts or infection on your hands or fingers. It’s easy to transmit microorganisms into the vagina and uterus, which is why it’s important to only massage your perineum if your hands are clean and the skin is intact.Perineal massage is helpful after a vaginal tear or episiotomy as well after the scar heals. Massage the area to soften the scar tissue. Postpartum, make sure to be very gentle with your pressure as these tissues are still healing. Perineal massage can help lessen the perineal trauma. It can also lessen perineal pain when performed before birth. This is usually after a vaginal delivery. Perineal massage vs. pelvic floor massage during pregnancy We also offer antenatal courses which are a great way to find out more about having a baby, labour and life with a new child. https://www.ouh.nhs.uk/patient-guide/leaflets/files/10938Pmassage.pdf [Accessed 1st September 2018] If you have had previous perineal surgery or your waters have broken, it’s a good idea to speak with your maternity care provider before starting perineal massage. Should I do any other exercises to prepare me for birth? No liability is assumed. The reader is considered responsible for your choices, actions, and results undertaken after reading work on Undefining Motherhood.