What should you know about third degree tear in labour?

During labour, tissue between the vaginal opening and anus can tear. A third-degree tear is deeper because it involves the ring of muscle that helps control wind and bowel movements. The team examines the area after birth, explains the findings and repairs the layers with stitches.

Early tenderness and bruising are common after repair. Passing stool can feel uncomfortable, which is why avoiding constipation matters. Your clinician may provide a bowel-softening plan, pain relief and advice about washing, sitting and gradually returning to normal movement.

Take medicines exactly as directed and follow instructions for keeping the wound clean and dry. Rest when possible, use comfortable positions and avoid lifting or exercise that worsens symptoms. A follow-up review helps assess the repair and discuss bowel control, pelvic floor symptoms and sexual comfort.

Postnatal physiotherapy may support pelvic floor awareness, strength and relaxation once your care team recommends it. Perineal repair care can provide focused assessment if healing is painful, slow or uncertain.

Call your maternity team if pain or swelling is getting worse, the wound opens, discharge smells unpleasant, you develop fever, bleeding becomes heavy or urine is difficult to pass. Get urgent medical help for new inability to control stool or wind, severe pain, or feeling faint or very unwell.

Ask how deep the tear was, which stitches were used and how healing will be reviewed. Clarify the bowel-care plan, safe activity, when pelvic floor rehabilitation is appropriate, and which changes in continence or wound symptoms should trigger a call.