episiotomy 5 days ago....

[stilldazed]

I gave birth 5 days ago and needed an episiotomy. The stitches were fine until yesterday evening when they started to get painful. The midwife said this is because they are sarting to pull the skin together? is this right/normal? also, how long does it take for dissolvable stitches to dissolve?

Sounds like mine - I was in some pain for a couple of weeks afterwards though that was straight from the birth - it didn't suddenly come on. Not sure how long it took for stitches to dissolve though.

Baths with lavender oil and calendula cream on a pad really helped with the pain.

But may be worth getting checked out for an infection - did the midwife actually look ?

Congratulations on the birth of your new DC! I can sympathise, as I've had 2 lots of stitches (one episiotomy, one from a tear). They take up to 2 weeks to dissolve, and I do remember them getting a bit uncomfortable as they tightened. A couple of tips: fold 2 towels, put them on the sofa about 5cm apart, so they create a channel, and sit on them (one cheek on each towel) - it keeps you from sitting on the stitches, and dragging them along the sofa when you stand up - ouch!! Also, put some witch hazel with some water in a drink bottle (one that you're happy to throw out), and keep it in the loo. When you go to the loo, lean forward and run the water from the back across the stitches to keep them clean and stop the wee from hitting them (the acid can really burn!).

Hope that helps - enjoy your baby!

I had both episiotomy and a second degree tear. Loads of stitches and they just wouldn't dissolve. It wasn't infected, but at four weeks the swelling and discomfort was such that I went and had them taken out. Instant relief! I still had some more stitches further up and these weren't bothering me, but it was six weeks before bits of thread started coming out and that lasted for a few weeks. I suppose it depends on your tissue type how quickly these things happen.

So if I was you I'd give it some more time and meanwhile avoided putting pressure on the area. Shower it lots and don't sit for long periods at a time. Perfect excuse for lying down, snuggling your baby

Congratulations on your baby & hope this helps!

Yes! Mine tighened up at about that time and I was worried but I got the midwife to take a look to check for infection and it was fine. Get her to check when she comes in to see you next as it will out your mind at ease.

And congratulations!

Tea tree oil and lavender in a bidet (if you have one, a bowl if you haven't) instant relief. Thick thick pads held against yourself when you go to the loo, and yes, lots and lots of lying down....on the sofa, being adminstered to by kindly relatives bearing platters of dainty and nutritious morsels......

i had an episiotomy and my stitches started to be painful 4 days after birth. Mine took about 9 weeks to dissolve completely. I did ask the midwife to check it wasn't infected to put my mind at ease.