Fourth-degree lacerations occur in less than 0.5% of patients.1 Figure 2 shows a fourth-degree perineal laceration. Tears usually happen spontaneously (on their own) as the vagina and perineum stretch during the baby's birth. Continuous suturing of second-degree perineal tears reduces short-term pain and pain medication use. During the second stage of labor, perineal massage and application of a warm compress to the perineum are beneficial. cyh.com/HealthTopics/HealthTopicDetails.aspx?p=438&np=464&id=2819, mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/expert-blog/tearing-during-childbirth/bgp-20055765, babycenter.com/0_perineal-tears_1451354.bc, matermothers.org.au/journey/childbirth/recovering-from-a-perineal-tear, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. Its also more likely if the baby weighs more than 9 pounds. Dont wash inside the vaginal opening. The causes of perineal pain are pretty varied, but they fall into a few different categories. A vaginal tear is a common complication of childbirth, but these injuries can happen at other times, too. Chilled witch hazel pads, a maxi pad with a cold pack, or a surgical glove filled with crushed ice also work. It provides effective soothing relief for dry skin and its mild formula is safe for external use on your baby's most delicate, sensitive skin. Depending on the severity of the tear, you may receive stitches or prescriptions for medicated creams and ointments. These injuries do not require immediate repair; hence, an inexperienced physician can delay the procedure for a few hours until appropriate support staff are available. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. Penetrative sex is the most common cause of non-obstetric vaginal tearing. https://gi.org/topics/fecal-incontinence/ Women at a higher risk of vaginal tears include: Tears can heal within 7 to 10 days with appropriate treatment. Warm soaks or sitz baths can also help relieve discomfort. A more recent article on prevention and repair of obstetric lacerations is available. This fairly common injury during labor is a concern for many pregnant people. The majority of obstetric anal sphincter injuries are third-degree lacerations that involve the anal sphincter complex without disrupting the rectal mucosa.1 The anal sphincter complex comprises the larger external anal sphincter containing striated muscle and a distinct capsule plus the small internal anal sphincter of involuntary smooth muscle that often cannot be identified. Applying an ice pack to the sore area can help control sweating. The perineum is the soft tissue between a woman's vagina and anus, and it has the capacity to stretch significantly during birth. This article was medically reviewed by Luba Lee, FNP-BC, MS. Luba Lee, FNP-BC is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and educator in Tennessee with over a decade of clinical experience. Pat the area dry with a clean towel. The drugs, which are. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f7\/Recognize-and-Avoid-Vaginal-Infections-Step-4-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Recognize-and-Avoid-Vaginal-Infections-Step-4-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f7\/Recognize-and-Avoid-Vaginal-Infections-Step-4-Version-3.jpg\/aid8833231-v4-728px-Recognize-and-Avoid-Vaginal-Infections-Step-4-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"