BUMP & BEYOND™
Perineal massage involves massaging the area between the vagina and anus during late pregnancy. Some pregnant women massage their perineum themselves, while others prefer to get their partner to help.
Why is perineal massage recommended?
• Perineal massage helps prepare the perineum for childbirth. It makes the area more flexible, allowing it to stretch more easily during labour.
• Research shows that perineal massage can reduce the chances of a perineal tear or episiotomy during labour. This is particularly the case for women and people giving birth vaginally for the first time.
• It can shorten the second stage of labour and reduce perineal pain after birth. Additionally, it can lead to a decrease in anal incontinence during labour.
• It can reduce recovery time and the pain of recovery. This is because of the decreased risk of tearing and chance of episiotomy.
How to do a perineal massage
1. Perineal massage can be done from 34 weeks. After washing your hands, get into a comfortable position and towards your chest, then relax your knees down to the side. You may find it easier to put one foot on the toilet / bath / stool in a similar way to how you would insert a tampon.
2. Apply a small amount of massage oil to your fingers (discontinue use if irritation occurs).
3. Gently press both thumbs into your vagina and place your forefingers on the skin of the perineum.
4. Stretch the skin carefully by pressing downwards towards your anus and to the sides, until you feel a slight burning sensation. This should not be painful. Hold the stretch for 1 to 2 minutes.
5. After stretching, massage the area between your thumb and fingers upwards and outwards in a ‘U’ shape.
6. Perform this massage 3-4 times per week. After a couple of weeks, you should notice an increase in elasticity.
Top tip: our Perineal Massage Oil can be used as body massage oil for external use, helping smooth and soothe skin.
