Perineal massage after birth

Dr. Sam is really easy to talk to and doesn’t make you feel insecure, judged, or awkward about talking about her areas of expertise. I’m speaking from first-hand experience here. Today’s topic of perineal massage after birth is an important and useful one. Do you have questions? Her contact info is at the bottom of this post and she would be delighted to connect with you to see how best she could fit into your care plan. Thanks so much for all of your wonderful tips, Dr. Sam!

Now, let’s talk about massage after birth.

Note: Pelvic floor muscles need a minimum of 6 weeks of healing time before any manual stretch or scar tissue massage is applied after all deliveries.

Benefits:

Increase the flexibility of the pelvic floor muscles; break up any scar tissue adhesions that have formed and prevent others that may form from perineal tearing during delivery and stitches post-delivery; and connect your brain to these specific muscles, their movements, and the tension held in them. 

When and How to Start: 

It is best to start after your 6-week midwife/OBGYN post-delivery check. Ideally, you would first have a full pelvic health evaluation performed by a pelvic health physical therapist or occupational therapist who can guide you. 

Be sure to empty your bladder and bowel if needed and to wash your hands. Use your favorite lubrication and prop yourself up in a semi-seated position with your legs in a comfortable, butterfly pose ((after a warm bath or shower could be great because your perineum is softer and more comfortable to touch). Place your thumb or partner’s finger into the vaginal opening up to the first knuckle. Imagine the pelvic floor as a clock (12 o’clock is the pubic bone and 6 o’clock is the tailbone), and gently push down towards 6 o’clock and hold the stretch. (If you are experiencing pain, lessen the stretch until you no longer feel pain, and then hold.) Hold for 30 - 60 seconds while taking in slow, deep breaths and letting go of any tension in your pelvic floor muscles. Then, move to 5 and 7 o’clock, separately, and perform the same stretch, 1x/day. Once you choose to start having vaginal intercourse again, this stretch is great to perform leading up to sexual intercourse!

*Note: For cesarean scars, scar tissue massage is very helpful to promote healing and strengthening of your core and abdominal muscles post delivery. It is best to schedule an evaluation with a pelvic health therapist to have your cesarean scar assessed before starting treatment. This person can create an individualized plan of care for you! 

I would be honored to be your Pelvic Health Provider! 

Please schedule an appointment through my website: www.TheEducatedPelvis.com, by calling (404) 295-3761, or email: DrSamParkhurst@gmail.com