What happens after episiotomy?

The perineal area may feel sore, swollen, bruised, or tight, especially when sitting, walking, passing urine, or opening your bowels. Stitches usually dissolve as the wound heals. Lochia, the normal vaginal bleeding after birth, can continue at the same time, so note changes in amount, colour, smell, and pain.

Healing affects comfort and movement, but recovery is individual. Pelvic floor muscles may feel weak or unfamiliar after birth. A midwife, obstetric clinician, or physiotherapist can assess persistent pain, wound concerns, or difficulty controlling urine or bowel movements.

Keep the area clean and dry, change maternity pads regularly, and wash your hands before and after pad changes. Rinse with lukewarm water if that feels soothing, then pat dry. Rest, change position often, drink fluids, and eat fibre-rich foods to reduce straining. Use only pain relief and products recommended for you. Avoid putting anything inside the vagina until your maternity team advises it is suitable.

Contact your maternity team promptly if pain or swelling is worsening, the wound opens, stitches look disrupted, discharge smells unusual, or you have fever or chills. Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, faintness, severe pain, or feeling suddenly very unwell. A painful, hot, or increasingly red wound also needs assessment.

Ask how the wound looks, which pain relief is compatible with breastfeeding, when to resume sex and exercise, and whether pelvic floor support would help. Ask who to contact if sitting, urination, bowel movements, or intimacy remain painful.