Many of our clients express a serious concern over tearing while they push. To be precise, they are concerned about the tearing of the skin between their vagina and their anus, called the perineum. While this experience can be relatively common, being proactive may help you reduce the risk of tearing during pushing.
A recent study published by the European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology found that the use of a warm perineal compress can considerably reduce your risk of tearing during pushing. Their findings clearly recommend the use of a warm compress during the second stage of labor (pushing phase).
Doula wisdom, has taught us that a warm compress on the perineum is a wonderful tool and should be used often and in many ways. It’s never too early to start.
Our muscle memory is amazing! From practicing for a marathon, to practice pushing, to the skill of relaxing the perineum, our bodies respond to conditioning.
Start by yourself either before or after you go to the bathroom. The “Throne of Progress,” also known as the toilet, is a tremendous place to labor because our bodies are used to voiding in this position. The same holds true during labor because of….you guessed it….muscle memory.
So the next time you think a bowel movement is in the making, gather a warm, wet washcloth and hold it on your bottom between the vagina and anus for a few minutes before you try to go. See how that eases the movement.
Do this daily and you’ll find you have a new, favorite self-care activity.
Want to step it up a bit? Try a warm compress before sex. You can do it yourself or add it to your foreplay activities. You’ll go into your experience a little more relaxed and will likely enjoy it that much more.
If you have been practicing using a warm compress daily, or semi-regularly, your body will recognize the familiar sensation during labor as well. When a warm compress is applied during labor, your body will relax and allow the baby to descend and exit with less resistance thus, reducing your risk of tearing.
Are you wondering who should hold this warm compress? The choice is up to you. You can do it, so can your partner. Your doula, a nurse or your care provider are options too. If this is something you plan to do during the pushing phase, be sure to discuss it with your care provider and doula before you go into labor. This way, everyone knows the plan and you can set your mind at ease.
We wish you the best! If you want more advice on how to reduce the risk of tearing, reach out today.
