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Postnatal health

As with all health-related issues, please seek advice from a RL health professional if you're worried about anything.

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Original poster

3rd degree tear and anal leaks

11 replies

mumto1chap · 04/03/2018 22:03

Sorry if TMI 😪

I had a baby 7 weeks ago and had forcep birth, with a third degree tear.

Had a few infections in vaginal area. I have been absolutely fine with my bowel movement and urine until a few days ago. I pass a bowel movement easily with no issues however after a few hours when a have a wee and wipe I have (sorry!!!) poo on tissue like I've been leaking. Nothing on my knickers or not really an accident but the leaking out the anus is worrying me

Anyone else had this issue? I have seen a physio and have been doing pelvic floor exercises just getting worried again 😫

OP posts:

IncyWincySpiderOnRepeat · 07/03/2018 22:36

Hi, I had a 3c tear almost 3 years ago and unfortunately still now suffer with the same problem that you are having.

I think it is fairly common after a third degree tear to have wiping issues like this. I guess it is either a result of weak muscles or perhaps a pocket that has been created as a result of the change in shape of that area.

If you haven't already, it might be worth mentioning it to your physio in case there are specific exercises you could do that would help to reduce it.

There is also a really good private Facebook group for women who have suffered 3rd and 4th degree tears where you will find lots of women who have had similar experiences and can often help with advice and info about what is "normal" following a severe tear.

Bea18 · 07/03/2018 23:15

Unfortunately I have had the same problem from three years ago a 3c tear from forceps.

I didn't have any follow up appointments for the tear so I just put it to the back of my mind.

For my second I opted for a c section. However I think if the aftercare I received was better the first time round I would have been more inclined to have a natural birth again. But the thought of it just made me too anxious.

Definitely speak to your doctor about it now you've noticed it early. They might be able to refer you to a specialist.

MegRam · 08/03/2018 08:15

@IncyWincySpiderOnRepeat Do you know the name of the FB group you mention? I gave birth 9 weeks ago and have a third degree, so I'd be interested in joining x

4yearsnosleep · 08/03/2018 20:13

I'm still suffering from extreme pain and my daughter is 5 in Jan, so I'd love the FB Group details please

wonderstar1216 · 08/03/2018 20:23

Can I ask that if you need forceps surely it would be better to cut rather than let the poor lady tear? Just seems a little harsh! I had a cut on my first and a tear on my second, but if they'd just cut in the first place... excuse my out loud thinking?!

IncyWincySpiderOnRepeat · 08/03/2018 21:10

My tear was the result of an extended episiotomy.. necessary due to forceps. Unfortnately a cut doesn't always avoid a tear...

The Facebook group is called Birth Tear Support (Severe Birth Tears). It is a closed group to keep things private so you have to request to join.

I have found it very helpful to read posts and access advice from other women who have had similar experiences.

noodlmcdoodl · 08/03/2018 22:52

I’ve had this problem (3b tear 14 months ago). My physio explained (in my case) it was due to my bowel not fully emptying anymore. She suggested spraying with a shower head after (or using a bidet). Also when I go, feet on a small step and pressing either side of my anus (in front and behind)... this is actually a better way to pooh anyway as it helps minimise straining. Anyway i don’t have this issue anymore.

4yearsnosleep · 09/03/2018 07:16

I had an episiotomy for my forceps delivery and tore like a star, all the way up to my cervix, top, through to rectum & both labia. I was in surgery 4 hours being stitched up and have just had my 4th surgical repair 4.5 years later. Thus I can safely say that the episiotomy did eff all. I wish everyday that they'd given me a c-section. I'd been pushing for 3.5 hours when he used the forceps. He took the gas and air off me 'so I could concentrate on pushing' so I had zero pain relief when he pulled her out. Safe to say my daughter is an only and always will be!

Bumbrum · 11/05/2018 10:27

9 weeks after 3rd degree tear here too! Have had a couple of very minor accidents, only just not quite got to the loo in time but worry if I was away from the toilet it'd be much worse. Reeeeeeeally hoping this is temporary. Such a shit thing to go through... Feel like I wish I'd had a section....

Melliegrantfirstlady · 11/05/2018 10:30

The nasty third degree tear

My bottom has never been the same since!

Just keep doing tightening excercises and hope for the best

Mrsherdington · 13/08/2021 15:04

Dear OP how did u get on, did the wiping issue go away

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