Perineal Tear and Stitches – Care Postpartum
In Short
Perineal stitches heal best with water, air and rest. Rubbing, soap and pressure slow things down; cooling and taking it easy help.
What We've Been Sold as Normal
Hardly anyone talks about perineal tears before birth. So afterwards many are left at a loss, facing a wound in the most sensitive place there is.
The Honest Explanation
A perineal tear or cut is stitched and usually heals within a few weeks. The stitches mostly dissolve on their own. The wound sits exactly where wiping and pressure hurt. That makes water the gentlest way to clean: rinse with lukewarm water instead of wiping dry, then pat dry carefully.
Cooling eases swelling and pain, air supports healing. What to avoid: soap on the stitches, hard straining, and sitting for long stretches on a hard surface.
What You Often Hear – and What's True
“The stitches have to be disinfected.”
No. Clear water is enough; disinfectant irritates.
“Dry paper is the most hygienic.”
No. It tugs at the stitches. Water is gentler.
“The stitches have to be removed.”
Usually not. As a rule they dissolve on their own.
“Pain when sitting doesn't matter.”
A cushion ring and cooling help; increasing pain or redness belongs with your midwife.
Putting It in Context
Perineal stitches need very little: water, air, rest and a bit of cooling. With redness, pus, fever or severe pain, see your midwife or doctor.
