The perineum is the area between the genitals and the anus.
Massage to the perineum may help decrease tightness and increase blood flow.
As a result, it can reduce pain and other related complications.
Martinns / Getty Images
Martinns / Getty Images
What Is a Perineal Massage?
Perineal massage is a massage to the soft tissue of the perineal area.
It can help improve blood flow and decrease tissue restriction for improved flexibility of the perineal muscles.
You may want to use a water-based lubricant to decrease friction, which will make the massage more comfortable.
Complications that can result from perineal injuries include:
These complications can cause significant discomfort.
Perineal tearing and resulting pain can cause difficulty walking and sitting.
What Is an Episiotomy?
Anepisiotomyis when the perineum and vaginal wall are surgically cut to enlarge the vaginal opening.
The incision is then closed with stitches.
However, there were more superficial tears in the people who had perineal massage.
Overall pain after delivery was also significantly reduced.
A review of studies also supports the use of perineal massage to lower the risk of severe perineal tears.
This process was repeated four times during the first stage of labor with 30 minutes of rest in between.
The residents then performed a 10-minute massage at the start of the second stage of labor.
This can help decrease the severity of perineal tearing and the need for an episiotomy.
2019 Sep;13(3):160-166.
