The perineum is the area extending from your vagina to your anus. Although small, it plays a huge role during pregnancy and sex. That's why we want to make sure to keep your perineum healthy and tear-free.
Why do a Perineal Massage?
During labor, the perineum plays an important role in releasing the baby slowly and safely. For this, the perineal tissue needs to be strong but elastic. After the 36th week, you can start to prepare your body and perineal tissue for labor. A well-prepared perineum will cause minimal to no tears, provide an episiotomy-free birth, and will promote easier postpartum healing. Also doing a perineal massage will help to secrete oxytocin which is the hormone for labor. (For more tips take a look at 'Natural Birth induction, a myth?') Here's how you can do it:
Step 1: Talk to your Healthcare Provider
As we always say in our blog post, every body is unique and every pregnancy is one-of-a-kind. So before practicing anything, please make sure to consult your doctor or midwife.
Step 2: Wash your Hands
As you closer to labor your water starts to leak and your cervix starts to efface making you more prone to infections. That's why you should always make sure to wash your hands before touching yourself down there.
Step 3: Find a comfortable Position
We want to make sure that you're in a position where you can reach your perineum and feel comfortable. For this, you can either lie down in a half-sitting position or squat in a shoe-tying position. If you still cannot reach down you can always ask your husband for help!
Step 4: Use Oil
The best oil for perineal massage is:
12 ml st. John's Wort oil
12 ml wheat germ oil
7 drops of clary sage oil
7 drops of rose oil
Used by the german midwife Gisele Steffen. This oil helps to promote postpartum healing and decrease pain due to its analgesic effects. You can also use any non-irritant water-based lube as a substitute.
Step 5: Get Massaging
When you feel ready you can insert your finger 3 cm into your vagina and distend it towards your anus. As you start to feel a slight discomfort you should do a U-shaped movement on the lower end of your vagina. Do this massage every day for 2-5 minutes leading to your birth. As you get used to the discomfort you can gradually increase to using 2-3 fingers.
For any questions or suggestions make sure to contact us at info@woombwellness.com!
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