If you’ve had a vaginal birth, it’s very common to experience some degree of tearing or a small surgical cut called an episiotomy. In many cases, these are repaired using perineal stitches - dissolvable sutures applied to the area between the vaginal opening and anus (the perineum).
Perineal tears are incredibly common, especially in first births. They range from small grazes that heal quickly, to deeper second- or third-degree tears that may need more time and care. Episiotomies are sometimes performed to help deliver the baby quickly or reduce the risk of further tearing.
Regardless of the type, caring for your perineal stitches at home is key to avoiding infection, easing discomfort, and supporting faster healing.
What Does Perineal Healing Feel Like?
Everybody heals differently, but in the first few days you might notice:
- A sore, bruised, or swollen feeling around the vaginal opening
- Stinging or discomfort when weeing
- A pulling or tight sensation as stitches dissolve
- Itching or mild tenderness as the wound closes
- Lochia (normal post-birth bleeding)
These sensations are expected. Most people find that discomfort significantly improves within 7–10 days, with full healing usually by 4–6 weeks – though this may last up until 3 months postpartum.
How to Keep Perineal Stitches Clean and Comfortable
Hygiene is a crucial part of caring for stitches. The area is delicate and prone to irritation - so think gentle, clean, and dry.
1. Rinse With Warm Water After Using the Toilet
Avoid wiping with toilet paper for the first few days. Instead, rinse gently with warm water using a Post-Birth Wash Bottle. Pat dry with a soft towel or let air dry if possible.
2. Use Lansinoh® Post-Birth Relief Pads
Lansinoh’s Post-Birth Relief Pads are designed to deliver instant, soothing relief from perineal soreness, swelling, and inflammation. These flexible (even when frozen) pads offer up to 2 hours of drug-free pain relief.
3. Change Maternity Pads Frequently
Always wear breathable maternity pads (not tampons) and change them every 2–4 hours to prevent infection. Lansinoh’s Maternity Pads are soft, absorbent, and designed for sensitive skin post-birth.
4. Take Regular Rests (Yes, Really!)
Lying down reduces pressure on your perineum and encourages healing. Rest with your legs slightly apart to relieve swelling. Avoid long periods sitting upright, especially on hard surfaces.
What to Avoid While Healing
It’s tempting to get back to normal life quickly - but taking it slow now will serve you better long term. In the first few weeks:
- Avoid bubble baths or perfumed products near your stitches
- Skip tampons until cleared at your postnatal check
- Avoid heavy lifting or squatting
- Don’t resume penetrative sex until you feel ready - and pain-free
Relieving Pain and Discomfort Naturally
If you’re feeling sore, here’s how to manage it at home:
- Apply cold & herbal therapy with Lansinoh Postpartum Padsicles
- Take pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, if advised by a midwife
- Use a cushion or donut pillow to ease pressure while sitting
Scared to Go to the Toilet Post Birth?
It’s common to feel nervous about having your first bowel movement after birth - especially if you’ve had stitches.
- Eat fibre-rich foods like oats, fruits, veg, and whole grains
- Drink plenty of water (aim for 2 litres/day)
- Don’t strain - use a footstool to align your body better
- Even though the stitches won’t open when passing a stool, some mums like to gently press a clean sanitary pad over the stitches during a bowel movement to make them feel more comfortable
- Consider a gentle, over-the-counter stool softener (check with your pharmacist)
Signs Your Perineal Stitches Are Healing Well
By week one, you should notice:
- Pain and swelling reducing
- Itching (a good sign the skin is repairing)
- Stitches beginning to dissolve
- Easier movement when sitting or walking
By week six, the area should feel mostly healed - though some tenderness or tightness can persist for a little longer.
When to Seek Help
Contact your GP, midwife, or health visitor if you notice:
- Increasing pain or swelling
- A strong or unpleasant odour
- Pus or unusual discharge from the area
- Bleeding that gets heavier rather than lighter
- Pain that interferes with walking, toileting, or sleep
There’s no such thing as a silly question. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and speak up. Use our Live Midwife Chat to put your mind at ease.
Long-Term Perineal Care and Recovery
Even after the stitches dissolve, you may feel tender or cautious about the area. Over time:
- Start pelvic floor exercises to build strength and control
- Reintroduce sex slowly, using lubricant if needed
- Talk to a women’s health physio if you experience pain, leaking, or heaviness
Midwife’s Top Tips
- Clean with warm water using a peri bottle, not wipes
- Use cooling pads to ease swelling and pain
- Lie down or recline often to reduce pressure on stitches
- Add fibre and fluids to your diet to make going to the loo easier
- Don’t wait if something feels wrong - early care = faster healing
Looking after perineal stitches may feel daunting at first—but with gentle care, rest, and the right support, your body will heal as it should. Remember: you’ve just done something extraordinary - now it’s time to honour that with patience and kindness. One day at a time.
