As your due date approaches, you might hear about perineal massage—a technique said to help prevent tearing during childbirth. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth adding to your prenatal prep, you’re not alone. Perineal massage has become a popular topic among moms-to-be, and for good reason!
Let’s dive into what perineal massage is, how it works, and whether it can truly help reduce the risk of tearing during delivery.
What Is Perineal Massage?
Perineal massage involves gently stretching and massaging the perineum—the area between your vagina and anus. This can help improve the elasticity of the perineal tissues, making them more flexible and better able to stretch during childbirth.
The massage is typically done in the final weeks of pregnancy, starting around 34–36 weeks. It can be done by you, your partner, or a trusted healthcare professional, using clean hands and a lubricant like coconut oil, olive oil, or a specially designed perineal massage gel.
How Does Perineal Massage Work?
During childbirth, your baby’s head stretches the perineum as it crowns. If the perineal tissues can’t stretch enough, tearing may occur. Perineal massage helps prepare these tissues by:
- Improving elasticity: The stretching encourages flexibility in the muscles and skin.
- Increasing blood flow: Gentle massage boosts circulation, promoting healthy tissue growth and healing.
- Familiarizing you with the sensation: Massage mimics the stretching feeling you’ll experience during delivery, helping you feel more prepared and relaxed.
Does Perineal Massage Really Help Prevent Tearing?
Research suggests that perineal massage can be effective in reducing the risk of severe tears, especially for first-time moms. A review of studies published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews found that women who practiced perineal massage in the last weeks of pregnancy were less likely to experience third- or fourth-degree tears.
However, it’s important to note that:
- Perineal massage may not completely prevent all tearing, especially first- or second-degree tears, which are common and usually heal well.
- Factors like baby size, delivery speed, and birthing position also play a role in whether tearing occurs.
How to Do Perineal Massage
- Find a Comfortable Position: Sit, stand, or lie down in a way that allows easy access to the perineal area. Many women prefer sitting on the edge of the bed or reclining with knees bent.
- Wash Your Hands and Use Lubrication: Cleanliness is key to preventing infection. Use a generous amount of lubricant to make the massage comfortable.
- Locate the Perineum: Use your thumbs or fingers to gently press into the vaginal opening and downward toward the anus.
- Stretch and Massage: Apply gentle pressure, pulling the tissues outward and downward in a “U” shape. Hold each stretch for 1–2 minutes before releasing.
- Take Your Time: Aim for about 5–10 minutes a few times a week. The goal is to stretch the tissues gradually without causing pain or discomfort.
If you’re unsure how to get started, ask your healthcare provider for guidance—they can show you techniques or recommend helpful resources.
Additional Tips to Prevent Tearing
While perineal massage is a great tool, combining it with other strategies can further reduce the risk of tearing:
- Controlled Pushing: Follow your provider’s guidance to push gently and gradually, giving the perineum time to stretch.
- Warm Compresses: Applying a warm cloth to the perineum during pushing can increase elasticity and provide comfort.
- Optimal Birthing Positions: Upright or side-lying positions reduce pressure on the perineum compared to lying flat.
Should You Try Perineal Massage?
If you’re feeling curious or open to trying something new, perineal massage is a low-risk, simple technique that may help reduce severe tearing. It’s especially worth considering if you’re a first-time mom or had significant tearing in a previous birth.
That said, it’s not for everyone, and that’s okay! If the idea feels uncomfortable or overwhelming, talk to your healthcare provider about other ways to prepare your perineum and protect it during delivery.
The Takeaway
Perineal massage is a proactive way to prepare your body for childbirth and potentially reduce the risk of severe tearing. While it’s not a guarantee, it’s backed by research and can give you greater confidence as you approach labor.
Ultimately, every birth is unique, and tearing isn’t always preventable. What matters most is having a birth team you trust and a plan that makes you feel supported. Whether or not you try perineal massage, you’re doing an amazing job getting ready for your baby.
