Stitches - Caesarean
birthTIPS
Stitches to the genitals
If you experienced a
vaginal tear or episiotomy, then it is likely you will have some stitches and caring for your
perineum will be an important issue for you. It may help you to know that a woman's genital area is similar in type to the skin and tissue in the human mouth. If you have ever injured your mouth, you will know that it can bleed heavily, swell immensely (like a 'fat lip'), but also have an amazing capacity to heal well on its own.
Vaginal stitches can be of various types, but all will dissolve over a period of a few weeks to a couple of months (depending on the
suture material used). Vaginal stitches do not need to be routinely taken out. However, if your stitches are feeling 'tight', or are giving you the sensation that they are 'pulling' after a few days, then you may need to see your caregiver (or local doctor) about cutting one or two, to release the tension.
The stitches usually need no extra care. Normal daily hygiene, such as a bath or shower, and gently patting the area dry with a soft towel, is adequate. You may wish to shower or bathe more regularly, or after opening your bowels. Your caregiver will check your stitches daily, while you are in the hospital (or having home visits), to make sure they are healing well.
When it comes time to open your bowels, try to avoid straining and placing extra pressure on these areas. The pelvic floor is usually weakened after a vaginal birth, and many women feel they do not have sufficient 'oomph' to open their bowels. To help support your pelvic floor, you can fold up some clean toilet paper (or use a clean pad) and place this on your
perineum. Keep your hand in place while you open your bowels, to provide some counter-pressure and support to the area. You may find you need to do this for a few weeks, until your pelvic floor strengthens again.