Caring for Birth Injuries – What Your Skin Needs Now

That care needs products: wash lotion, spray, ointment, ideally all with “intimate” on the bottle. A fresh wound mainly needs one thing: not to be disturbed.

What kinds of injuries there are. Small grazes, tears to the labia or vagina, perineal tears of varying degrees, and episiotomies. Stitches are usually dissolvable.

The real problem is the toilet. Urine stings on the wound, paper rubs, and many people dread the first bowel movement. This is where the most relief is possible.

When you pee, let lukewarm water run over the area. It dilutes the urine and takes the sting out. Afterward, rinse with clear water and pat dry with a soft cloth.

When you poop, don't strain. Drinking plenty keeps the stool soft. Some midwives suggest gently holding a clean pad against the stitches the first time – it gives support and takes the fear away.

In between, change pads often, let air get to the wound now and then, and cool it in the first days – with a cold pack wrapped in a cloth, never directly on the skin.

When to get in touch: if the pain gets worse rather than better, or with swelling, pus, a foul smell, fever, or if the stitches seem to be coming apart.

“Disinfecting keeps the wound clean.”
It tends to irritate and get in the way of healing. Only use disinfectant if your midwife or doctor specifically recommends it.

“Bath additives make the wound heal faster.”
Many additives irritate sensitive skin. If you want a bath, check first.

“The stitches have to come out.”
Usually not. As a rule, they dissolve on their own.

“The stitches will tear when you poop.”
That's very rare, especially if you don't strain.

The wound heals by itself. You just mustn't put anything in its way – no paper that rubs, no soap that stings, no pressure that pulls.