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Caring for perineal stitches after birth
stitches after birth · perineal stitches · perineal tear care · episiotomy care
After birth, you may have stitches in the perineum, the area between the vagina and the anus. Simple care helps them heal faster.
If you had a tear or a cut in the perineum during birth.
⏱ Duration: stitches usually heal in 2 to 3 weeks; dissolving stitches go away on their own
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Hygiene. Rinse with warm water after every trip to the toilet, front to back.
- Pads. Change your pad often, usually every 2 to 4 hours.
- Drying. Pat the stitches dry with a clean towel. Do not rub.
What to bring
- Soft postpartum pads
- Cotton underwear
- A separate towel for the area
- Your doctor's instructions
How it goes
- Wash your hands before caring for the stitches
- Rinse with warm water from front to back
- Gently pat dry with a towel
- If a product was prescribed, apply it as your doctor said
- Put on a fresh pad
- At first, sit carefully, on one side or on a soft cushion, unless your doctor says otherwise
What you'll feel
- For the first few days, the stitches ache and pull
- It may sting when you pee. Pouring warm water over the area helps
- The pain eases over time
Afterwards
- Do not lift heavy things
- Try not to strain on the toilet, and drink more water
- The doctor will check the stitches at your visit
- Sex is usually put off until your doctor says it is OK
Contact a doctor straight away if
- A fever over 38°C
- Severe pain, swelling, or pus around the stitches
- Discharge with a bad smell
- Heavy bleeding: call emergency services
Common questions
When can I sit?
Usually you can sit carefully right away, but your doctor will tell you more. A soft cushion helps.
Do the stitches need to be removed?
Usually the stitches dissolve on their own. If not, the doctor will tell you when to come.