Perineal Massage
The perineum is the tissue between the vagina and the anus. During childbirth 4 out of 10 women experience a perineal tear with two-thirds requiring stitches; as you can tell this is extremely painful and problematic to heal even after months of rest. To help reduce this tearing an episiotomy is given, which is where the lower vaginal opening is cut wider and in theory helps reduce the difficulties of healing due to a cleaner cut; however, it still takes considerable time to get back to normal.
Thankfully perineal massaging may help reduce this and normally started at 35 weeks up to the big day. While traditionally this was once done with figures either yours or a partner, a quicker and easier methods involve using a perineal massage device and tailored perineal massage oils and gels to lubricate the area.
The massage puts a slight pressure to the lower part of the vagina for around 5-10 minutes and should be done at least 3 times each week until the big day. As with continuing your pelvic exercises that firm up the pelvic muscles this exercise creates a more elasticated skin. Both work harmoniously to enhance the birthing and recovery process.
The Massage Technique
First relax yourself and to help with this find somewhere private and secure where you will not be disturbed. Wash your hands and clean your perineal massage device if using one.
Put your massage tool or fingers about 1 inch inside near the back wall of your vagina. Now press down towards the anus and around to the sides; you should feel some stretching and a little discomfort, this is natural. You will need to hold these stretches for about 2 minutes each time you do them. If you use perineal massage gel it should reduce the discomfort; remember you will need to keep these exercises up from 35 weeks until childbirth.
Now massage the lower part of your vagina for two minutes and focus on the perineum. Thumbs pointing up and out create a U-shape motion that you need to repeat. As your body form has changed using a perineal massage device can help significantly here.
While the massage shouldn’t hurt you will feel pressure initially. Avoid this massage if you suffer from vaginal harpies, thrush or any other infection.
Perineal Massage Oil
Perineal massage oil is usually a mixture of natural oils for different properties. Ingredients that may be used include;
Sweet almond oil; helps to moisturize your skin.
Lavender oil; creates a calming atmosphere.
Grapeseed oil with vitamin e; reduces damage to skin cells.
Avocado oil with omega 9 for promoting skin health and protection.
Eucalyptus oil; for promoting blood supply.
Additional ingredients such parfume may also be present.
Perineal Massage Gel
Perineal massage gel has a few advantages over oils, there rheology allows it to stay where it has been applied and are water based, meaning it is far easier to clean up once the massage is complete. They have the benefit of allowing for much more hydration to occur at the skin level, reduce irritation and can use natural preservatives such as a rose water extract. These natural preservatives typically reduce irritation associated with synthetic alternatives. Gels normally incorporate Tamarack tree herb for natural moisture and antioxidant support and since it is a standard stabilized gel pH balanced which further aids comfort during use.
So How do you Choose
When using either perineal massage oil or gel it is difficult to find a clear winner for traditional hand-based massage, with personal preference being the determining decision. For perineal massage devices the rheological shear profile of the gel will provide a better experience over prolonged usage and reduce pain over the treatment; however, find out what suits you.
