Episiotomy Recovery

Episiotomy is a surgical procedure in which an incision is made in the perineal region. Perineum is the area between vagina and rectum. A surgical cut opens up the vagina so as to facilitate easy and fast labor. This surgery is performed in the second stage of labor. Earlier, about 40% of women in labor had to undergo this surgery. However, the need for episiotomy has decreased in the past few years. Nowadays, this surgery is only performed if there is no other alternative to accelerate childbirth. Long and painful recovery is mainly the reason why this option is chosen only in emergencies.

The perineal region stretches maximum when the baby is pushed out of the uterus. Often, the natural vaginal opening is not sufficient for the baby to come out fully. Sometimes, the baby is abnormally positioned or her shoulders might get stuck. In this case, the vaginal opening needs to be enlarged beyond its natural capacity. This is achieved by making a clean surgical cut in perineum. Certain other medical conditions may also trigger the need for fast and quick labor. Some babies may get distressed and feel deprived of oxygen. In such cases, they need to be taken out as fast as possible. Besides, the medical condition of the mother may also put restriction on the extent to which she can push the baby. Birth assisting techniques are used in such cases. An episiotomy is often performed to prevent excessive tearing of perineum during such difficult labor.

Episiotomy Recovery

Episiotomy leads to quite some problems in women post childbirth. These include incontinence, short term sexual dysfunction etc. Besides, the woman also has to endure a lot of pain and discomfort. Moreover, there is a risk of infection as is in any other surgery. However, with proper episiotomy care you can minimize the pain and promote faster healing. Given below are some measures to be taken during recovery time after episiotomy.

Medications
Episiotomy patients are prescribed pain relievers like paracetamol. Analgesic creams are also to be applied to numb pain and reduce inflammation. The medications should be taken under the supervision of a medical practitioner only. Do not take OTC pain relievers on your own.

Witch Hazel or Hemorrhoid Pads
Applying ice pack is the simplest and best remedy for reducing swelling and relieving pain. Ice treatment should begin as soon as you are in the recovery room. Wrap a few ice cubes in towel and compress the area till you feel better. Do not apply ice directly on the fresh wound. Witch hazel and hemorrhoid pads are a good option for promoting rapid healing. Change the pads whenever required to maintain proper hygiene.

Sitz Bath
Soaking your bottom in bathtub is also a good remedy for episiotomy wound. Sitz bath can offer even more comfort. You can also buy sitz bath with herbs which soothe the wound and heal it. Avoid using any perfuming agents in bathtub as they can irritate the wound.

Hygiene
Maintaining good hygiene measures is of prime importance to avoid any possibility of infections. Wear cotton panties throughout the recovery period and change them several times during the day. Treat the wound with lukewarm water to disinfect it after defecation and urination. Squirt water on the wound to reduce the sting while urinating.

Exercises
The weakened pelvic muscles can gain strength from kegel exercises. Also, walking is the best exercise during the recovery period as it encourages blood circulation to pelvic region thereby promoting faster healing.

The perineum is one of the fastest healing part of the body. Hence, you can expect your wound to heal within a few weeks of surgery.