Tears, often known as perineal lacerations, can happen to a birthmother when their child’s head is too big for the vaginal opening or the perimeter of the opening can’t expand. The range of effects that tearing can have on your body starts with the skin near the vagina but can reach the anus if it’s a third- or fourth-degree tear.
If you are expecting a child soon, you might be wondering how to prevent or reduce the risk of tearing during childbirth. With that in mind, here are a few tips for reducing tearing during childbirth.
Get Ready Before Pushing
The second stage when you are in labor is the pushing stage. Even though it may be painful, try to control your pushing and avoid pushing too hard.
If you aim for gentle and slow pushes, this will give your tissue enough time to properly stretch so that your baby can come through. In addition, those that are guiding you through the birthing process can help you control the pushing by offering clear directions on what to do.
Make Sure Your Perineum Stays Warm
Keeping the perineum warm while you give birth is another essential tip for reducing tearing during the procedure. If you want to give birth at home, learning how to properly set up a water birth tub at home might help you reduce the level of pain while you give birth. Water births help improve blood flow to your uterine muscles while you give birth, and they also help your body produce endorphins that will limit how painful the process feels.
Ask for a Perineal Massage Before You Push
Before the doctor or nurse prepares you for the second stage of labor, ask them to give you a perineal massage to prevent tearing. This is when your nurse or doctor moves two fingers near the entrance of the vagina with slight pressure. They perform this motion with gloves on and lubrication so that it’s more comfortable when the baby finally comes.
Overall, childbirth is an arduous process, but you can reduce the amount of upheaval by following the right tips. Now that you know some tips for reducing tearing during childbirth, you have the foundational knowledge to achieve the best outcome.
Christina Duron is a writer living in the Chicagoland area. Her passion for writing and health helps create thought-provoking and engaging pieces, and she hopes to use them to empower readers to play a more active role in their personal healthcare journey.
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