After the strain of labour and delivery, a woman's body undergoes overwhelming changes. Paying attention to post delivery care is crucial, to get back to normalcy as quickly as possible. After all, you will need all the energy to nurture your little one.
If you have had a vaginal birth, chances are you are struggling to cope with the discomfort of the stitches, bleeding and pain in the vulval area.
"A new mother may face some common problems around the vagina post birth," says Dr Sita Rajan, consultant obstetrics and gynaecologist, Columbia Asia Hospital, Bengaluru. These may include:
- Vaginal infection and/or itching in vagina or vulva
- Soreness in vaginal area
- Lax in vaginal muscles due to the stretch in the process of delivery
- Vaginal tears during the process of delivery, which can, though rarely, extend up to the anus or uterus
Post delivery care: Tips to maintain vaginal health
Follow these steps religiously after your delivery to avoid any vaginal infections and vaginal laxness:
- Wash the area gently with lukewarm water when you bathe
- Keep the vaginal area clean and dry. Gently use a soft, clean tissue to wipe
- After passing stools, wash and gently dab dry the area from the vagina towards the anus
- Perform Kegel's exercises regularly to maintain vaginal muscle strength
Post delivery care: Dealing with vaginal stitches
Giving birth vaginally may involve a tear or a cut in the perineum that needs stitches. Here is how you can ensure they heal completely:
- Sit in a warm water tub for 10 mins at least twice, daily, to alleviate the pain of stitches, and continue this for 2 weeks
- Change your sanitary pad frequently so the area is kept dry
- Take your pain killers as advised by your doctor
Dr Rajan advises the new mother not to use any medicines or cosmetic washes on the vulval area, unless advised by the doctor.
It is advisable to call your doctor if:
- There is a foul smelling discharge from the vagina
- You develop a high fever
- Your abdomen experiences sharp pains
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