MemorialCare - Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care

After Vaginal Birth

Although every person’s birth experience is a little different, there are physical changes after a vaginal birth that require self-care to enhance healing and prevent infection.

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PERINEUM Your perineum is the area between your vagina and anus. In the first few weeks after giving birth, it will need some extra care. During vaginal birth, this area stretches and may tear. You may have had an episiotomy in your perineum to help the baby be born. If you received stitches, they will dissolve on their own within a few weeks.

PERINEAL CARE Keeping your perineum clean and dry helps prevent infection and promote healing. Gently clean the area using a handheld shower or

squeeze bottle. Then pat the area dry using toilet paper or a moist, disposable wipe. Many hospitals provide a “peri bottle” you can fill with warm water and use to clean your perineum.

MOVING AROUND You should be able to get up and walk soon after a vaginal birth. If you had an epidural, you should wait for it to wear off (1 hour or more) before getting out of bed. Be sure to have your nurse with you to help when you get up for the first time. Get up slowly to prevent falling. After you’re able to get up, continue to be careful and don’t try to do too much too soon. When you get home, avoid housework and heavy lifting. Limit your trips up and down stairs. Taking it easy helps your body rest and heal as the muscles and ligaments that hold your uterus in place regain their strength.

To prevent infection • Wash your hands carefully before and after changing your pad

• Rinse area with warm water 2 to 3 times daily and after urination and bowel movements • Always rinse and wipe the perineal area from front to back Perineal pain If you experience pain and discomfort in the perineal area, here are some things that can help. To reduce pain and swelling • Apply an ice pack in the first 24 hours after giving birth

SHOWERS & BATHS You can usually shower soon after a vaginal birth. If you had an epidural, you will need to wait until it has worn off. You may also want to wait until your IV is removed.

At home • You can shower every day • 3 to 4 daily sitz baths: keeps perineum clean, enhances healing, reduces pain • Ask your health care provider when you can take a full tub bath

• Take a medication like ibuprofen • Lie on your side to rest or sleep To increase circulation and promote healing

• Apply warm compresses 24 hours after giving birth • Soak for 10 to 15 minutes in a warm bathtub or a sitz bath • A sitz bath is a small container filled with water, placed on top of a toilet seat

8 Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care