Perineal massage...

[VelvetQuilt]

Hi ladies,

I'm almost 20 wks now but I'm considering doing the perineal massage thing around a couple of weeks before I'm due. Anyone doing this or know how to do it? I have a book which mentions it, but not sure it's right to put something like sunflower/olive oil just inside your fanjo is it??? Does that not leave you wide open (if you'll excuse the pun!) to infection?

Also, is there anyone who found this really helped during labour?

Thanks!

Hi Velvet Quilt,

yes, perineal massage does work.
It has been shown to reduce perineal trauma by 18%!
You can find a lot of clear instructions on the web, even with drawings.
I usually suggest almond or wheat germ oil as this is very light. Olive oil is thicker and stickier.
It is fine to use oil in your vagina. It is there as a lubricant as you do not want to create friction.
Perineal massage does not aim to stretch your vagina very wide but rather is an opportunity to learn how to relax this area when stretched by using your breath and positive imagery.
I usually suggest thinking of soft, melting butter or marshmallow.

It is recommended not to start perineal massage before 34 weeks.

Good luck,

Anja
Sunrise Birthing

As long as your waters haven't gone, there should be no worries about infection.
Have you heard of the epi-no? Not used it myself, but heard a good report about it from someone I knew, and it looks like a great idea to me, wish I had heard of it. Anyone else have an opinion of it?

Thank you for your help ladies!

I will definitely give it a go nearer the time. I have heard of the epi-no yes but I think they're nearly £100 which is a little too pricey for me. Think I'll just give it a go with the oil!!!