Perineal Massage – What Is It and How It Is Done ?

A lot of women dread the experience of childbirth and, therefore, it is not surprising that they try to find ways to ease the birth. It is in search of a solution that the question, “What is perineal massage?” arises. The answer to this question encompasses any perineal massage tool that can be used as well as the techniques involved. 

What is the Perineum?

First off, it is important to understand the anatomy involved. The perineum is the portion of skin and muscles opening to your back passage, between the vagina and anus. The baby’s head and body will naturally widen this area to allow the birth of the child. 

The perineum might be torn as a result of this stretching,  whether or not the skin is capable of stretching sufficiently for the birth of a child.  When a baby’s delivery is in jeopardy or requires assistance; a minor cut called an episiotomy is needed during childbirth,  made in the surrounding region.

Perineal Tearing During Birth 

During vaginal childbirth, nine out of ten women will have some degree of perineal damage (a tear or episiotomy). Most of these women will need sutures, but not all of them. Preparing the perineum for easier stretching during vaginal birth is accomplished by perineal massage. 

What is Perineal Massage?

Perineal massage is a method for relaxing the muscles in this area. Some mothers may be apprehensive about this type of massage because it entails massaging the delicate perineal area. Perineal damage can be minimized by massaging this area to increase its flexibility.  In addition, it may help you get used to the sensation of pressure or stretching on your perineum during childbirth.

In the final weeks of pregnancy, consistent vaginal massage minimizes the need for an episiotomy and the incidence of perineal rips requiring stitches, according to research. Women who have given birth via vaginal delivery have been found to benefit from perineal massage the most. Women who have given birth via vaginal delivery more than once may benefit from regular vaginal massage in the months after their second or subsequent delivery. A prenatal vaginal massage is safe to perform even if you’ve had a perineal tear or episiotomy in the past.

How a Perineal Massage is Conducted

To prepare for labor and delivery, this method is frequently employed. It is advisable to begin perineum massage at 34 weeks of pregnancy.  Preparing the perineum for a challenging stretch like this helps to relax and strengthen the muscles.  Starting at week 34, it is suggested that you begin receiving weekly perineum massages.  It is much more effective if it is done twice a week. It also helps reduce the pain in the perineum after the birth.

Because this is a massage for a sensitive area, there are a number of methods and techniques that must be employed to guarantee that it is done effectively. In addition, purely as a matter of preference, you can use a perineal massage tool of your choice. 

Perineum massage can be performed by women themselves if they are relaxed and able to stretch their bodies without pain. Alternatively, they can delegate the task to their companion. The most essential thing is to feel at ease and relaxed in either setting. 

As a preliminary step, make sure your hands are free of any dirt or bacteria. For additional comfort, nails should be trimmed so that they don’t cause any discomfort. A perineum massage tool may also be used. Whether the hands or the tools are used, they should be scrubbed and cleaned thoroughly, even if gloves aren’t worn because they can be painful and less lubricated. Regardless of whether the woman is sitting or lying down, she can receive a massage.

It can be done in the bathtub or shower. When using a vaginal massage tool, one popular position is to stand up with one leg on the chair and the other on the floor.  

Using a mirror is a common practice for ladies who are doing it on their own. Having a clearer view of the vagina and where they are conducting the massage makes it easier for them to perform the procedure. 

When a woman is inexperienced with the perineal area, a floor-to-ceiling approach works best.  In order to get within the vagina, the thumb is rubbed with some vitamin E cream or pure vegetable or olive oil. Then, using both hands, press forcefully against the vaginal walls and toward the perineum. A tingling sensation is quite natural.  

A firm U-shaped massage stroke pattern is recommended.  Doing this for a minute is the optimal length of time to move from side to side and back.  It’s possible to perform it for extended periods of time once you’ve become used to it and it feels natural. A  clean towel should be available to remove any remaining fluids from the hands.

Conclusion

Although the perineum may feel tight at the beginning of the massage, as one continues, they should notice a difference in the flexibility of the tissues. A  perineal massage can be uncomfortable and if one feels any discomfort at any point,  it is recommended to stop and try again later. 

Friction is reduced by applying more oil/lubricant. If there is any concern or  distress by the massage, a professional  should be consulted about it. Perineal massage should only be performed if one is comfortable doing so.