What should you know about repairing episiotomy?

After the baby is born, a clinician checks the depth and position of the incision and makes sure bleeding is controlled. Local anaesthetic may be used if the area is still sensitive. The layers of tissue are brought together with stitches designed to break down as the wound heals. Soreness, swelling, bruising, and pulling around the stitches can occur during the early recovery period.

Keep the area clean with water, pat it dry rather than rubbing, and change sanitary pads regularly. Passing urine may sting; pouring lukewarm water over the area while urinating can make this more comfortable. Constipation and straining can put pressure on the repair, so fluids, fibre, and any prescribed stool-softening treatment may help.

Use the pain medicine recommended for you, and try a wrapped cold pack for short periods to ease swelling. Rest when possible, avoid lifting more than advised, and increase walking gradually. Do not put soap, perfume, or other products directly on the wound unless your maternity team tells you to. Wait for advice before having sex, using tampons, or returning to strenuous exercise.

Contact your maternity team promptly if pain or swelling is increasing, the wound opens, the area smells unpleasant, or you notice pus or new bleeding. Fever, feeling faint, or feeling generally unwell can signal infection or another postpartum problem. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, severe pain, or difficulty passing urine.

Ask which pain relief is suitable while breastfeeding, whether the stitches are healing as expected, when an examination is needed, and when you can resume sex, exercise, and driving. Ask for advice if bowel movements remain painful or if scar tightness affects comfort.