What is a Perineal Massage?

Perineal Massage is a type of massage that is commonly used to help reduce the pain and discomfort that can be associated with childbirth. It can also be used to help heal the perineum after birth. The perineum is the area of skin and tissue between the vagina and the anus. 

This area can be susceptible and can tear or stretch during childbirth. Perineal massage can help to reduce the risk of this happening, as well as help to heal any damage that does occur. There are a few different ways that perineal massage can be carried out. 

You can do it at home, or a professional masseuse can do it. If you are pregnant, it is essential to check with your midwife or doctor before having any massage to ensure that it is safe for you and your baby.

How Perineal Massage is done?

Massaging the perineum helps to stretch it and make it more flexible, which can help to reduce the risk of tearing during childbirth.

To do a perineal massage, you will need the following:

• A water-soluble lubricant
• A clean, soft cloth
• A small, rolled-up towel
• A pillow or cushion

Start by washing your hands thoroughly. Then, apply a generous amount of lubricant to your thumbs and index fingers. Gently insert your fingers into the vagina and locate the perineum. You should feel a slight, doughnut-shaped area of tissue. Apply pressure to this area with your fingers and massage it in a circular motion. Continue massaging for 5 minutes or longer if desired.

When you are finished, rewash your hands and clean up any lubricant that may have leaked onto your body or clothing.

Perineal Massage Technique

A Perineal Massage is a technique that is used to help relax and stretch the perineum. The perineum is the area between the anus and the vulva. This area can be very tight and uncomfortable during childbirth.

To do a Perineal massage, you will need the following:

• A water-based lubricant
• Place your thumbs about an inch inside the vagina and press down towards the rectum. You should feel a “tenting” sensation as you do this.
• Gently massage in a circular motion for about 10 seconds.
• Repeat this process 3-5 times.

How Long do you do a Perineal Massage?

Perineal massages can be performed by a healthcare provider or a pregnant person. When completed by a healthcare provider, it is typically done with gloved hands using a lubricant on the perineum.

The person receiving the massage will be asked to breathe deeply and relax as much as possible. Usually, it should not take long and can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour.

What are the Main benefits of a Perineal Massage?

There are several benefits of getting a perineal massage, including:

• Increased blood flow to the area.
• Softened tissue that is more flexible and less likely to tear during childbirth.
• Reduced swelling in the area.
• Less pain during childbirth due to the reduced risk of tearing.
• A quicker healing process after childbirth due to the increased blood flow and softened tissue.

Who should not do a Perineal Massage?

There are a few contraindications to perineal massage. Avoid massage if you have any open wounds or sores in the genital area until they have healed. If you have an active herpes outbreak in the genital area, wait until it has cleared before starting the massage. 

And finally, if you have any kind of Vulvovaginal infection (Bacterial Vaginosis, Yeast infection, Trichomoniasis), perineal massage can spread the infection, so it’s best to wait until you’re cleared up before starting.

Conclusion

A perineal massage is a great way to keep your perineum healthy and prevent tears during childbirth. It’s easy to do and only takes a few minutes. Plus, it’s free! So there’s no excuse not to try it.