How to Reduce Vaginal Tearing During Childbirth

Childbirth can be an intense and overwhelming experience, both physically and emotionally. While many expectant parents focus on preparing for labour and delivery, they often overlook the risk of vaginal tearing, which can cause significant discomfort and pain during the recovery period. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce the risk of vaginal tearing and make childbirth a smoother experience.

Here are some tips on how to reduce vaginal tearing during childbirth:

​1. Practice Perineal Massage

Perineal massage involves gently massaging the perineum, which is the area between the vagina and anus. This technique can help to increase the flexibility and elasticity of the tissues in the area, reducing the risk of tearing during delivery. You can start perineal massage around 34 weeks of pregnancy, and continue until delivery. Be sure to use a pure, ideally organic oil, and NOT 'lube' of any kind. Even olive oil from your kitchen will work great!

2. ​Stay Hydrated
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Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated both before and during labour can help to keep the tissues in the perineal area supple and pliable, reducing the risk of tearing during delivery. Make sure to drink at least eight glasses of water per day, and avoid beverages that can dehydrate you, such as coffee and alcohol.

3. Use Warm Compresses

During labour, using a warm compress on the perineum can help to increase blood flow to the area, reducing the risk of tearing. You can use a warm, damp cloth or a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel. Ask your birth partner or midwife to help you with this.

4. Choose the Right Delivery Position
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The position you choose to give birth in can have a significant impact on the risk of vaginal tearing. Positions such as squatting or kneeling can help to widen the pelvic outlet and reduce pressure on the perineum, while lying on your back can increase the risk of tearing. Discuss the best delivery position with your midwife or obstetrician.

5. Be Mindful of Episiotomies

An episiotomy is a surgical cut made to the perineum during delivery to widen the vaginal opening. While they were once common practice, episiotomies are now generally only performed when necessary. Talk to your healthcare provider about your options and preferences regarding episiotomy.

6. Consider Using Perineal Support Devices

Perineal support devices, such as a plastic or silicone device called an Epi-No or Aniball, can help to stretch the perineum and reduce the risk of tearing during childbirth. Talk to your healthcare provider to see if this is an option for you.

7. Follow Post-Delivery Care Guidelines

After delivery, it's important to follow post-delivery care guidelines to help reduce the risk of vaginal tearing and promote healing. This may include using ice packs, taking pain medication, practicing gentle pelvic floor exercises, and avoiding sexual activity until you are fully healed.

8. Hire a doula!

Research shows time and time again that a supportive birth team who are knowledgeable of your wishes and protective of your birthing space and journey, provide endless benefits for your birth - including vastly reduced rates of intervention and tearing, and vastly increased rates of satisfaction postpartum.

While vaginal tearing can be a concern during childbirth, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk and promote a smoother delivery. Talk to your birthing team about your options and preferences to help make the experience as positive as possible.