Perineal massage is a technique that prepares the perineum in the weeks prior to delivery, so that it is reduce your chances of tearing during labor. This massage increases the elasticity of the area. What is highly recommended in women who have already undergone episiotomy, multiparous and for any pregnant woman.
Because it is very important to prepare for childbirth in every way, both emotionally and physically. Just as it is advisable to walk every day to keep the body well prepared, it is necessary to prepare the pelvis, hips and the birth canal in general. The perineal massage also made at home, so you can do it yourself in privacy and even ask your partner to help you to involve him in this special moment.
When to start with perineal massage
What specialists recommend is to start with the perineal massage from the six weeks prior to delivery. That, taking into account that the pregnancy has occurred normally. If done correctly and regularly during these last weeks of pregnancy, It is very helpful and very effective. It is not painful, does not cause discomfort, and will help you prepare physically for the time of delivery.
This technique is explained during childbirth or childbirth classes. maternal education. Some classes that are very valuable and in which you can receive very useful information regarding the last moments of pregnancy and the first days of the baby at home. You can also receive instructions on how to do iteven a product that will help you to do the massage more comfortably.
Before starting
Before starting to perform the perineal massage you must take into account some questions. The main thing is that pregnant women at risk of premature delivery should not perform this technique, as well as women with urinary infection. It is also very important to approach this massage as something sensory, rather than simply a mechanical matter. Because The moment of visualizing yourself in labor will help you a lot, giving life and getting to know your baby.
If your partner is involved in the moment, you can create a very intimate environment in which both of you will prepare for the moment of delivery. You can use an oil with which to better prepare the area, such as sweet almond oil, olive oil or a specific product to lubricate the area. What's more, you will have to take these tips into account before starting.
- Nails should be very short and clean.
- Empty the bladder before positioning yourself for the perineal massage.
- Put yourself in a comfortable place, with your back supported on the wall. You can familiarize yourself with the area by placing a mirror in front of you.
- If you are going to do the perineal massage yourself, use your thumb. On the other hand, if the massage is going to be done by your partner, it is better to use the index finger and the middle finger.
How to do the perineal massage
Perineal massage consists of making movements so that the muscles of the vagina stretch and gain elasticity. To start, spread your legs and insert your finger about an inch or two into your vagina. Press down on your rectum until you feel a slight stinging sensation. Now, slide your finger in and out, keeping light pressure while you do it.
The frequency with which you must perform the perineal massage to be really effective, is between 3 and 4 times a week, for about 10 minutes each time. You can start from week 34 of pregnancy, although the most appropriate is check with your midwife to make sure that you can do it safely. If you do it correctly, you can inform the gynecologist to assist you in the delivery so that she can make an assessment of your perineum.
In this way, you can check the status of the area and thus use the best technique based on it. For protect your perineum, your health and that of your baby.