What does perineal repair treat?

The perineum is the area between the vaginal opening and anus. During birth it may split naturally, or an episiotomy may create a deliberate cut to widen the opening. A clinician checks the depth and location of the injury, gives suitable pain relief or anaesthesia, and places dissolvable stitches in layers when repair is appropriate. A deeper tear may involve muscles that help control the bowel, so careful examination and follow-up matter. Repair does not remove every sensation immediately; soreness, swelling, and pulling around the stitches can occur while tissue heals.

Keep the area clean and dry according to your maternity team's advice, change pads regularly, and take prescribed or recommended pain relief as directed. Rest when possible, drink fluids, and avoid straining with bowel movements; ask about a stool-softening plan if needed. Pelvic floor exercises can be introduced when advised. Attend follow-up if offered and report concerns about wound healing, continence, or pain with sex.

Contact your maternity team promptly for increasing pain, new swelling, worsening redness, pus-like discharge, fever, wound separation, or difficulty passing urine. Urgent assessment is needed for heavy bleeding, faintness, severe weakness, or symptoms that may suggest postpartum haemorrhage.

How deep is the tear and which tissues were involved? What care will protect the stitches? When can I resume exercise, sex, and driving? Which changes in bleeding or pain are expected? When should my wound and pelvic floor be reviewed?