 |
Warning: You may not want your children to read some topics or view some images in this section. |
The perineum is a strong flexible muscle between the opening of the vagina and the anus. This muscle stretches quite considerably to allow the baby's head to be born.
Image 1-17 is a drawing showing the female genital organs with the perineum highlighted.
Since the 1980s, there has been increased interest for pregnant women to use perineal massage to help minimise or prevent tearing. At present, an overall assessment of the research indicates that women having their first baby can lessen their chances of requiring stitches if they do regular perineal massage in last few weeks of pregnancy, but that it will not necessarily prevent tearing. For every 13 women who may tear but do perineal massage, 1 woman will avoid stitches. Other aspects to consider are:
| 1.
|
Some caregivers believe it is best to avoid massaging the perineal area in the event of possibly traumatising or bruising the area. |
| 2.
|
Many women feel it is helpful in giving themselves time to connect with this part of their body in a way that is neither sexual nor associated to going to the toilet - usually the only times that any attention at all is given to the perineum. |
| 3.
|
Many women have acknowledged the benefit of creating a body memory,or becoming familiar with the sensation of the perineum stretching and burning, as a useful exercise to help them deal with the pushing stage of their labour. |
Our thoughts...
We believe there can be some emotional and physical benefits from perineal massage. If you wish to practise perineal massage you can lay down a
body memory