Episiotomy stitches gaping :(

[Pinkrach]

Hi all,

I recently has an episiotomy, and after increased pain, my midwife told me that about 1cm of the stitches have opened. She said it would heal on its own but it's so so painful. I am terrified to go to the toilet because of the pain - it's really getting me down. Any tips? Please tell me it will get better.... :( x

Poor lukewarm water over it while you pee.

Tea tree oil in the bath helps too.

Warm towel does wonders softens the stitches. just thinking about it brings the memories back, failing that run a hot bath and just sit in it, makes a world of difference. no t sure about tea tree oil, wouldn't that burn your arse off?

I have this too. Lean forward and put your hands on the ground while you pee xx

I'll try that. It's really getting me down. Terrified it's going to take ages for this open bit to heal and no one seems to have any positive stories about it. It's really taking the shine of these early days of motherhood, because even getting into position to feed my little boy can bring me to tears xx

Tea tree oil helped me - just a few drops in a bath though, not neat!

I'd go to gp or midwife again and ask to be referred for re stitching.

In the meantime I'd try a bath with dissolved free running table salt or bicarbonate of soda in. Weirdly I liked a bath as hot as poss but you'll work out what suits you.

Go to the GP you may need Some antibiotics but it should come together on its own