What should you know about fourth degree perineal tear?

You may have soreness, swelling, bruising or discomfort when sitting. Passing stool can feel difficult, and fear of opening your bowels is common. The repair is designed to realign the damaged layers. Stool-softening treatment, fluids and fibre can reduce strain while the area heals. Do not insert anything into the vagina or rectum until your maternity team says it is appropriate.

Take prescribed pain relief and bowel medicines as directed, keep the area clean and dry, and wash gently after using the toilet. Avoid heavy lifting and high-impact activity until reviewed. Postnatal Physiotherapy can help assess pelvic-floor coordination and gradual return to activity. Perineal Repair explains the surgical care used for this injury.

Contact your maternity or surgical team promptly for worsening pain, increasing swelling, fever, pus, wound separation, heavy bleeding or difficulty controlling gas or stool. Seek urgent help for severe bleeding, faintness, rapidly worsening illness or inability to pass urine. New bowel-control symptoms deserve review even if the wound looks settled.

Ask when the repair will be checked, which bowel regimen is suitable, when pelvic-floor exercises can begin, and what symptoms should trigger an earlier appointment. You can also ask when sexual activity, driving and lifting are reasonable for your recovery.