Hello Everyone! Perineal Massage, a term that most people go most of their lives without hearing unless they or their partner have carried a child. So what is it, and does it really make a difference?
What is Perineal Massage and Why Is It Recommended?
Perineal massage, or the massage and stretching of the tissues along the vaginal canal, is recommended during the last 4 weeks of pregnancy in order to prepare the tissues for labor and delivery.
The tissues of the perineum are also those of the pelvic floor, and while they need to be strong to provide support and continence, they also need to be mobile to allow for passage of the baby through the vaginal canal during delivery.
Getting Started with Perineal Massage
Starting at week 34 during pregnancy, you or a partner can massage along the inside of the vaginal canal daily for about 5 minutes.
So first and foremost, you want to make sure your nails are trimmed and you wash your hands.
After that, make sure to find a position that is comfortable for you that allows access to the perineum, and feel free to switch positions if you become tired midway through.
You take some massage gel to start, since you want to make sure the tissue stays hydrated throughout the massage, and the amount of lubricant needed can differ from person to person.
Now the goal with the massage is to create length along the back portion of the vaginal canal, so you would start with your fingers facing the rectum and work along the sides of the vaginal canal. Another option is to push gently down on the tissue and hold for a few seconds. There should not be pain, but a stretching or light burning sensation is common. Repeat daily.
And that’s it! If you want to review in person, feel free to contact me at Center for Spine Care and Mobility for an in depth review of how to do perineal massage at home.
