Recovering After An Episiotomy

An episiotomy is a procedure that is needed in case of a delivery of the child. It involves a surgical cut that will take long time to recover for the women who has undergone this process. There will be pain and infection which can increase the recovery time for the women, but it can be avoided and recover from the episiotomy very soon by following these tips.

1. There may be a long time that is needed to recover from this process, so you must be prepared to face this. The time conceded to recover from episiotomy varies from woman to woman. For some people may take about two months to feel relief from the pain depending upon the surgical cut.

2. Use ice packs to control swelling of the area during your recovery period as it will also support in reducing the pain. You can use normal bag of frozen peas for this process.

3. The bowel movements can be difficult to manage and it can be painful during the first few days. Don’t take too much strain as it can affect the stitches as well as cause bleeding. Use a stool softener to get relief from this problem.

4. Sometimes there will be incontinence and you must be prepared to face this also. It occurs when the perineum which is a muscle in between your vagina and anus becomes weak. After recovering from a episiotomy you can try doing Kegel exercises which will help to strengthen your pelvic muscles.

5. You can use a cleansing material to wipe the area after consulting a doctor. You can use this after every urination and bowel movement. Try to use an antiseptic spray after asking the doctor.

6. To reduce the pain and discomfort try to sit on a sitz bath and also make sure that the water is lukewarm. Try to avoid intercourse for around six weeks or until the doctor advices you. You must wait for some time to heal you wound properly to prevent further complications.

7. Stay away from lifting heavy items as it may strain your body and also break the stitches which may lead to bleeding. Also stay away from forceful activity.

8. Go to a doctor for a post-natal checkup after six weeks to make sure that the doctor checks your body completely. This will help to know that you are healing well or completely healed.

9. You can also use supportive devices such as donut to sit comfortably during the recovery period. Sit on the chairs that make you feel comfortable than using a strain causing chair.