What should you know about a double episiotomy?

An episiotomy is a surgical incision through the perineum, the tissue between the vaginal opening and anus, during childbirth. The phrase double episiotomy is not a standard diagnosis with one fixed meaning; it may describe incisions on both sides, repeated incisions, or a complicated tear and incision being discussed together. Ask the birth team to point out exactly what was cut or torn.

The wound is normally examined and closed with dissolvable stitches when repair is needed. Pain, swelling, bruising, and stinging with urination can occur during early healing. Bowel movements may feel uncomfortable, and the area may take time to regain comfort with sitting, walking, or sex. The extent of injury, repair, and your general health shape recovery.

Keep the area clean and dry, change pads regularly, wash your hands before and after care, and use pain relief only as advised for you. Rest between activities, drink fluids, and include fibre to reduce straining. A cold pack wrapped in cloth may ease swelling for short periods. Avoid inserting products or resuming sex until your clinician says the wound has healed sufficiently.

Arrange a review if pain is not settling, stitches seem to open, or you are unsure how much activity is suitable. Information about [Perineal Repair](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/perineal-repair/) may help you prepare for that discussion.

Contact your maternity or gynaecology team for increasing pain, new swelling, wound separation, pus, an unpleasant smell, fever, or difficulty controlling urine or stool. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, faintness, severe pain, or rapidly worsening illness. A painful wound with fever needs assessment for infection rather than home treatment alone.

Ask how many incisions or tears were present, which stitches were used, and what activities are suitable now. Ask when the wound should be checked, how to manage bowel discomfort, and who to contact about pain during sex or concerns about continence.