Perineum is the name given to the area between the vagina and
the anus. It is an area of about 2-3 cm in diameter and is the region where
tears are most common during normal birth. The purpose of episiotomy performed
in some normal births is to prevent tears in the perineum. With episiotomy, a
smooth incision can be made as desired and can be repaired properly after
birth. However, tears that may occur involuntarily can be irregular and can be
very difficult to repair.
What is
perineal massage? How is it done?
Massage of the perineum is applied to this area for 5-10
minutes by applying a lubricant (glycerin, almond oil, etc.) and massaging by
hand. Massage is done 3-4 days a week. The perineal massage can be done with
the help of the mirror itself, but this can be difficult. Therefore, it is
preferred that the patient's spouse does it. Massage is started after 34 weeks
of pregnancy and continues until delivery. Before doing the massage, hands
should be washed thoroughly and the expectant mother should empty her bladder
by urinating. If the mother will apply the massage on her own, she should use
her thumb. If the patient's wife or someone else is going to apply the massage,
they should use the index finger. The finger should enter the vagina no more
than 3-4 cm. The finger should move left and right between 3-9 o'clock and
stretch the vagina lower wall and perineum. Meanwhile, while the finger is
moved left and right, it is slightly pressed down to the anus. There may be
slight burning and pain during the procedure. During delivery, perineal massage
is applied by the doctor to facilitate the baby's exit by stretching the
perineum.
Apart from that, balloon systems that can replace massage by
hand have been produced. Similar to hand massage, the small balloon swells and
shrinks, allowing the perineum to stretch.
The
benefits of perineal massage:
Perineal massage aims to prevent tears that may occur at
birth by increasing the flexibility of the tissues and muscles in this area.
To date, experience and research often report that perineal
massage can be beneficial especially for mothers who will give birth. The view
that there is no benefit in women who have given birth before is dominant.