Episiotomy care and healing
Healing and care after an episiotomy is essential to ensure comfort, prevent infection, and promote recovery.
Keep the Area Clean
Wash the perineal area daily with warm water, avoiding harsh soaps and using a mild, unscented one if necessary. Use a peri bottle to gently spray warm water over the stitches after using the toilet to keep the area clean without scrubbing. Always pat the area dry gently with a clean towel or soft tissue rather than rubbing.
Manage Pain and Swelling
Apply a cold pack or chilled pad, wrapped in a cloth, to the area for 10-15 minutes to reduce swelling and discomfort. Paracetamol or ibuprofen can help, but it’s important to consult your healthcare provider first, especially if breastfeeding. Pads soaked in witch hazel can also be soothing and reduce inflammation.
Promote Healing
Allow the area to air dry whenever possible to avoid prolonged moisture. Taking a sitz bath with warm water and Epsom salt for 10-15 minutes a few times a day can promote healing and comfort. Gentle Kegel exercises can improve blood flow to the area and speed up recovery; consult your midwife or doctor for guidance.
Homeopathic and Naturopathic ideas (see a professional for how to approach these)
Arnica Montana: Commonly used to reduce bruising, swelling, and pain after childbirth.
Calendula: Known for its wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties, it may help promote healing and prevent infection.
Staphysagria: Often recommended for surgical wounds, including episiotomies, to ease pain and support tissue healing.
Hypericum: Useful for nerve pain or tingling sensations around the stitches.
Warm Sitz Baths: Add herbs like calendula, chamomile, comfrey, or lavender to a warm sitz bath to soothe the area and promote healing. Use for 10-15 minutes a few times a day.
Herbal Peri Sprays: Use sprays containing aloe vera, witch hazel, or calendula extract to cool and soothe the perineal area.
Manuka Honey: Apply a thin layer of medical-grade Manuka honey to the stitches to help reduce inflammation and encourage healing.
Essential Oils: Add a few drops of lavender or tea tree essential oil to a sitz bath or diluted carrier oil (like coconut or almond) for their antibacterial and soothing properties.
Arnica Gel or Cream: Apply externally around (but not on) the stitches to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Prevent Infection
Change sanitary pads frequently, at least every 4 hours, to keep the area dry and clean. Always wash your hands before and after touching the area to maintain hygiene. To avoid constipation, drink plenty of water and eat fibre-rich foods; stool softeners may also be recommended by your doctor.
Be Gentle with Movements
Minimise activities that put pressure on the area, such as heavy lifting or prolonged standing. Use a soft cushion or a donut pillow to ease pressure while sitting. If sitting is uncomfortable, try breastfeeding positions that don’t require sitting directly, such as side-lying.
Monitor for Signs of Infection
Contact your healthcare provider if you notice increased pain, redness, or swelling around the stitches, an unpleasant odour or discharge from the wound, or fever and chills.
Emotional Wellbeing
Healing takes time, so it’s important to be patient with your body. Seek support from loved ones or a postpartum doula to reduce stress and focus on recovery.
Diet and Supplements
Vitamin C and Zinc: Essential for tissue repair and wound healing. Include foods rich in these nutrients or consider supplements if advised by your healthcare provider.
Probiotics: Support gut and vaginal microbiome health, especially if you’ve had antibiotics during labour.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil or flaxseed oil, these help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Hydration and Nutrition: Stay well-hydrated and consume a nutrient-dense diet rich in leafy greens, fruits, nuts, and seeds to support your body’s healing processes.
Follow-Up Care
Attend all postpartum check-ups to ensure proper healing and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
Recovery from an episiotomy typically takes time. By prioritising care and following these steps, most people heal well and regain comfort quickly.
