Perineal Massage for Easier Birth

How to do perineal massage at home is a common question for pregnant women. When to perform perineal massage, best positions and over all how to do it.

What is Perineal Massage During Pregnancy?

Perineal massage is a technique where you gently stretch and massage the tissue between the vaginal opening and the anus (the perineum) to make it more flexible before birth.

It is most commonly recommended starting around 34-35 weeks of pregnancy and done until delivery.

As an essential technique for expectant mothers, perineal massage can help reduce the risk of tearing during childbirth and promote a smoother delivery experience.

Why Do It? (Evidence-Based Benefits)

Multiple high-quality studies show it can help:

1. Reduce the risk of tearing (especially severe 3rd/4th-degree tears)

2. Reduce the need for episiotomy (the surgical cut)

3. Lower the chance of needing stitches

4. Decrease ongoing perineal pain after birth

5. Shorten the second (pushing) stage of labor slightly in some first-time moms

Key studies:

A 2016 Cochrane review (2,480 women) found perineal massage from 35 weeks reduced perineal trauma and episiotomy in first-time mothers.

It is most effective for first-time mothers; benefits are smaller if you’ve had a vaginal birth before.

Step-by-Step Instructions

In this informative guide, we'll cover the benefits, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips on how to effectively perform perineal massage safely.

Whether you're a first-time parent or looking to enhance your birthing experience, this video offers valuable insights for everyone involved in the birthing process.

How to Do Perineal Massage (Step-by-Step)

1. Preparation

Empty your bladder.

Wash hands thoroughly.

Find a comfortable, private position: lying propped up with knees bent, sitting on the toilet, one leg up on the tub, or squatting.

Warm the area first (warm shower or warm compress) - this helps a lot.

2. Lubricant (very important — reduces discomfort)

Use a pregnancy-safe oil: pure vitamin E oil, almond oil, olive oil, coconut oil, or a specific perineal massage oil. Avoid scented products or mineral oil.

3. Technique

Insert thumbs (or have your partner use index fingers) about 3-5 cm (1-2 inches) into the vagina.

Press downward toward the anus and sideways toward 5 o'clock and 7 o'clock positions.

Hold a gentle stretch until you feel a slight burning/tingling (not pain) - hold for 30-60 seconds.

Then massage in a U-shaped motion along the lower half of the vagina (4 o'clock to 8 o'clock)

You should feel stretching, not sharp pain.

4. Breathing

Breathe slowly and relax your pelvic floor - tensing up defeats the purpose

Be Prepared

Prepare for childbirth with this informative video on perineal massage. Learn about the benefits of perineal massage during pregnancy, how it can help prevent perineal tears, and why it's an essential part of childbirth preparation.

Join a physiotherapist as they guide you through the importance of perineum care and tearing prevention techniques.

Whether you're looking for prenatal massage tips or simply want to understand more about perineal massage for childbirth, this video has all the information you need.

Perineal Massage Techniques

Prepare yourself for childbirth with perineal massage techniques demonstrated in this video with our very own Physiotherapist Beth.

Learn from a qualified physiotherapist about the benefits of perineal massage during pregnancy, how it can help prevent perineal tears, and tips for an effective prenatal massage.

Enhance your childbirth preparation with these physiotherapy tips and ensure a smoother delivery experience.

Pelvic Health Physiotherapist, Beth Scott has all the answers.

Perineal Massage for Easier Birth

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Listen to this educational podcast to learn how to perform perineal massage to best prepare for childbirth.

When NOT to Do Perineal Massage

1. Vaginal infection or herpes outbreak

2. Preterm labor risk (before 34–35 weeks, unless your provider says otherwise)

3. Placenta previa or vaginal bleeding

4. If it causes pain (beyond mild discomfort)

Tearing during Birth

Many pregnant women worry about the possibility of tearing during birth, which can lead to longer recovery times and discomfort. This concern can be overwhelming, especially if you're a first-time mom.

The thought of tearing can make you anxious about the birthing process, and it's not uncommon to feel like you're not in control of your body.

Avoid the Fear

This fear can be especially daunting if you've heard horror stories from friends or family members who've experienced severe tearing during childbirth.

As a result, many women feel uncertain about what they can do to reduce the risk of tearing and make their birthing experience less traumatic.

Perineal Massage

Perineal massage is one technique that has been shown to make a significant difference, and it's something that I want to explore with you today.

The fear of tearing can also affect your mental preparation for childbirth. If you're worried about the possibility of tearing, you might feel like you're not fully prepared to face the challenges of childbirth.

Remove the Fear

This fear can be debilitating, and it's essential to address it head-on. One way to do this is by educating yourself about perineal massage and how it can help reduce the risk of tearing.

By taking control of your birthing experience and being proactive about your care, you can feel more confident and empowered as you prepare for childbirth.

In addition to the physical benefits, perineal massage can also have a profound impact on your mental well-being during pregnancy.

When you feel more in control of your body and more prepared for childbirth, you're better equipped to handle the challenges that come with it.

This confidence can translate to other areas of your life, and it's essential to prioritize your mental health during this critical period.

Perineal massage is a simple yet powerful technique that can be done from the comfort of your own home. It involves massaging the perineum, which is the area between your vagina and anus, to increase elasticity and reduce the risk of tearing.