Perineal massage - what did you use?

[RevoltingPeasant]

Tried it properly for the first time tonight and, holy fuck.....It hurts! I used some diagrams off Google so I am fairly sure I am doing it right.

Also I think I got over-enthusiastic and grazed myself as there was some blood afterwards :(

It has kind of scared me, thinking that if that's why I can do with my fingers, what is a baby's head going to do?!

But I wonder if this is because I am using water based lubricant. Do I maybe need something more...moisturising, like an oil? To help the stretch?

Any experiences or tips gratefully received!

[WhyOWhyWouldYou]

Olive oil is fine to use. It shouldn't really hurt (sting slightly maybe but not hurt) and definitely shouldn't cause you to bleed.

I'd give yourself chance to heal, then start again more gentle and gradual.

[cosmicglittergirl]

Coconut oil is fine too. I found the sensation a bit unpleasant at first. Did it after a bath which helped.

[TestingTestingWonTooFree]

Some fancy oil from weleda.

[RevoltingPeasant]

Thanks all. I did it after shower but might try bath next time. I am not sure whether I over stretched the skin or nicked it with my nails. Either way, have an ongoing ring of fire down there now

Will try olive oil in a couple of days then.

Now panicking I have left it all too late as I'm 35+3 already!

[TheScenicRoute]

Oh dear, but you have made me giggle.

I need to start as well. Will try tomorrow, joy oh joy.

[RevoltingPeasant]

How far along are you scenic?

bloody DH keeps singing Ring of Fire to me.

[TimefIies]

I used the mothercare own brand perineal gel. By the time I reached the right number of weeks to start though, I could barely reach, so only did it twice...

[cosmicglittergirl]

I haven't bothered this time (30 weeks) as I can't really reach.

[leanne963]

Oh Jeez, I didn't even know this was a thing that was recommended to do. I feel like such a naive first time mum lol.

Tearing doesn't sound fun though so I may give it a go in a few months! MN is so informative!! Thanks ladies!!

[Sonics]

I've been using the weleda oil as well but just wanted to jump in to say what a pain the whole thing is! I'm following the instructions but really don't know if I'm doing it right. It's so awkward with a bump as well and just the most undignified process - guess that's good prep for labour though!

Some websites suggest to get your partner involved but I just think that would be so awkward and it is the least sexual thing ever!