How To Do Perineal Massage

Perineum Massage to Prevent Episiotomy and Tearing During Childbirth

Oct 6, 2008 Nicci Talbot

Perineal massage is essential to prepare the vaginal area for childbirth. It helps the skin to become more elastic. This article explains the benefits, and how to do it.

Perineal massage is a method of massaging the perineum (the skin between the vagina and anus) to prepare the area for childbirth. Studies* have shown that it’s beneficial for the vaginal tissues and reduces the risk of tearing, stitches and episiotomy (when the skin is cut during labour to allow the baby’s head to crown). So, what are the benefits of perineal massage during pregnancy and how do you do it properly?

The Benefits of Perineal Massage

During pregnancy the body prepares for childbirth by producing more hormones, which soften the ligaments so that the vaginal tissue can stretch enough to give birth. Regular massage around the perineum and vagina increases the suppleness of the tissues and encourages blood to circulate.
It helps the tissues to recover post-birth so you’ll be back in shape more quickly.
Psychological preparation – you’re doing something for yourself in order to prepare for childbirth and it will help you to feel more in control during the labour. By isolating the area, stretching your skin and tensing/relaxing your PC muscles it will be easier for baby to be born.
It’s a very intimate massage and bonding to do with your partner - a great way to involve him in things. You are both taking the time to get to know your body and prepare for birth.

How To Do Perineal Massage

Wash your hands and lubricate them with some natural vegetable oil (you can also buy specially made oils).
Insert your thumbs inside your vagina and touch the perineal area with your fingers. Gently start to manipulate the tissue.
The aim is to stretch and pull the tissues gently as you imagine the baby’s head will when it’s crowning. Be firm but don’t inflict any pain. Pull downwards and outwards to open the area up. Use a mirror so you can see what you’re doing over the bump.
As you pull you’ll feel a slight burning sensation so hold for a minute until it eases.
Massage all around your lower vagina taking care to avoid the urinary opening, as this can spread infection.
Squeeze your PC muscles while you massage so that you learn how to relax them when you need to. This will help you give birth and is a good habit to get into to tone the area post-birth.

Do this once or twice a week six to eight weeks before your due date. This is when hormone levels rise in preparation for the birth and your tissues start to loosen. After a few sessions you will be able to stretch the tissues further.

When You Shouldn't Do Perineal Massage

Generally perineal massage is safe for all. However, it's best to avoid it if you have any vaginal or urinary tract infections. If this is the case it's best to seek medical advice.

References

*Three studies were reviewed involving 2,434 women and provided evidence that perineal massage was beneficial for postnatal health and reduced the number of episiotomies by 15%. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2006, Issue 1, published by The Cochrane Collaboration, an organisation that assesses medical research.

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