Vaginal cut during normal delivery: what to know

An episiotomy is an incision in the perineum, the skin and muscle between the vaginal opening and anus. The clinician explains the reason where circumstances allow, uses local anaesthetic when needed, and closes the incision with dissolvable stitches after birth. A cut is different from a tear, although both can cause soreness, swelling, and discomfort when sitting or walking. The need for it depends on the birth situation, the baby's position and wellbeing, and how quickly birth needs to happen; it is not a routine part of every vaginal delivery.

Keep the area clean with water and pat it dry. Follow the maternity team's instructions for pain relief, bowel care, and changing pads. Rest, avoid activities that increase pain, and use a comfortable position when feeding. Contact the birth team if you are unsure about wound care, stitches, sex, or returning to exercise. A lactation consultation can help if pain or positioning makes feeding difficult.

Ask for prompt assessment if pain, swelling, redness, or wound discharge is increasing, if the stitches appear to open, or if you develop fever or feel unwell. Seek urgent help for heavy postpartum bleeding, faintness, severe pain, or difficulty passing urine or stool. Healing discomfort should gradually improve rather than become more intense.

Why was an episiotomy recommended in my birth? How should I care for the stitches? What pain relief is suitable while breastfeeding? When can I resume sex and exercise?