Small perineal tear: what to know

A minor tear may involve the skin and nearby vaginal tissue. Some tears need stitches, while others are allowed to heal with local care; the decision depends on depth, bleeding and whether muscle is involved. Soreness, stinging when passing urine, bruising and a pulling feeling can occur early in healing. Discomfort should gradually ease rather than steadily worsen.

A deeper tear can affect the muscles around the anus and needs careful assessment and follow-up. Do not judge the depth from appearance alone, particularly when swelling is present.

Keep the area gently clean, pat it dry and change pads regularly. Rinsing with lukewarm water after urination can reduce stinging. Use pain relief recommended for you, rest when possible, drink fluids and include fibre to reduce straining with bowel movements. Avoid inserting anything into the vagina or resuming sex until bleeding and soreness have settled and your clinician says it is appropriate. Postnatal physiotherapy can help with pelvic-floor recovery when symptoms persist.

Contact your maternity or primary-care team promptly for worsening pain, increasing swelling, wound separation, pus, unpleasant odour, fever or difficulty passing urine. Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, faintness, severe pain, loss of bowel control or inability to control gas. A persistent feeling of pressure, painful sex or trouble controlling urine also deserves follow-up.

Ask which tissues were affected, whether stitches are needed, how to keep the wound comfortable and when it should be checked. Ask when pelvic-floor exercises, physiotherapy, sex and strenuous activity are suitable, and which symptoms mean the repair needs review.