What should you know about second degree tear during delivery?

The perineum helps support the vaginal opening. During delivery, it can tear as the baby's head or shoulders pass through. Second-degree means the split includes skin and the muscle underneath, while the anal sphincter is intact. The clinician will inspect the tissues, explain whether stitches are required, and check bleeding before you leave maternity care. Pressure, stinging, and difficulty finding a comfortable position are common early concerns.

Use water to clean after urinating and blot the area dry. Cold packs wrapped in cloth may soothe swelling for short periods if your maternity team approves. Take prescribed or recommended pain relief, keep stools soft with fluids and fibre, and avoid straining. Build activity gradually and stop if pain rises. [Postnatal Physiotherapy](/treatments/pelvic-floor-and-rehabilitation/postnatal-physiotherapy/) may help with pelvic-floor recovery, scar sensitivity, or confidence returning to movement.

Call your maternity unit if the wound becomes more painful, hot, swollen, or red, or if discharge smells unpleasant. Fever, chills, pus, or feeling increasingly unwell can point to infection. Urgent assessment is needed for heavy bleeding, severe worsening pain, fainting, or a new inability to control urine or stool. [Perineal Repair](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/perineal-repair/) is a relevant review option when a repair needs specialist attention.

Ask how the tear was graded, what appearance and discomfort are expected, and when follow-up should happen. Discuss safe bathing, pain medicines, bowel care, pelvic-floor exercises, and the point at which sex or higher-impact exercise can be considered.