HealthPartners - Taking care of you and your newborn

Personal Care Of course, feeding and meeting all your baby’s needs are top priorities. But, you’ve also got to take care of yours. You need to know how to care for your body— inside and out. PERINEAL CARE To clean the area around your perineum, you can use a hand-held shower, squeeze bottle, or sitz bath. Sometimes an antiseptic spray or analgesic cream can provide pain relief. If using either of these, make sure you closely follow the directions. To dry the area, use moist antiseptic towelettes or toilet paper in a patting motion.

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SCAN + PLAY

Wash your hands carefully before and after changing sanitary pads

Wash the area with mild soap and water at least once daily 2

Check the amount and color of your lochia with each pad change 7

7 Tips for a Healthy Perineum

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Apply your pad from front to back Change your pad after every urination or bowel movement

Rinse with lukewarm water 2-3 times daily and after urination and bowel movements

Wash and wipe from front to back 5

Use all the water in the peri-bottle 4

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Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care