Do you need a referral for perineal repair?

Perineal repair closes a tear or cut in the tissue between the vagina and anus, often after childbirth. A clinician assesses the wound, bleeding, pain, swelling, and healing before deciding whether repair, review, or another treatment is appropriate. Some repairs are carried out during maternity care; a later concern may need an appointment with obstetrics or another clinician.

Contact the maternity unit, obstetrician, midwife, or primary care service that knows about the birth or injury. Ask whether you can book directly or need a referral. Take discharge information and a list of medicines. Do not remove stitches or apply products inside the wound unless a clinician has advised this. You can read more about [Perineal Repair](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/perineal-repair/).

Seek prompt medical assessment for heavy or increasing bleeding, severe or worsening pain, fever, foul-smelling discharge, wound separation, dizziness, or difficulty passing urine or stool. After a birth, sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or one-sided leg swelling needs emergency attention. These symptoms warrant care regardless of whether a referral has been arranged.

Ask which service should review the area, whether an examination is needed before booking, how to care for the wound, what pain relief is suitable, and when healing should be checked. Ask what to do if stitches loosen or bowel control changes.