Healing After Birth: Navigating Recovery from Vaginal Tearing

Childbirth is powerful, raw, and transformative. But for many birthing parents, it also comes with physical trauma—especially vaginal tearing. Whether it’s a minor graze or a deeper laceration, healing from a tear requires time, tenderness, and informed care. If you’re navigating this recovery, know this: you’re not alone, and your body is resilient.

What Is Vaginal Tearing?

Vaginal tears—also called perineal lacerations—occur when the skin and muscles around the vaginal opening stretch or tear during delivery. About 85% of vaginal births involve some degree of tearing. These tears are classified into four degrees:

Degree Description Healing Time Treatment

1st Superficial skin tear Few weeks May not need stitches

2nd Skin + muscle between

vagina and rectum 3–4 weeks Usually stitched in

delivery room

3rd Extends to anal sphincter 4–6 weeks May require OR repair, antibiotics

4th Through rectal lining 6+ weeks Complex repair,

close monitoring

Gentle Care Tips for Recovery

Your postpartum body deserves compassion and care. Here’s how to support healing:

• Cool Compresses: Ice packs or chilled witch hazel pads can soothe swelling and reduce pain.

• Peri Bottle Magic: Use warm water to rinse while urinating to avoid stinging.

• Sitz Baths: Soak your perineum in warm (or cool) water for 5–20 minutes, 2–3 times a day.

• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter meds like ibuprofen can help. Ask your provider about numbing sprays or creams if needed.

• Stool Softeners: Prevent constipation and reduce pressure on healing tissues.

• Pelvic Floor Therapy: Around 6 weeks postpartum, a specialist can help restore strength and function.

What to Avoid While Healing

• No tampons or menstrual cups until fully healed.

• Avoid intercourse until cleared by your provider—typically after 6 weeks.

• Skip heavy lifting or straining during bowel movements.

When to Call Your Provider

Reach out if you experience:

• Severe or worsening pain

• Fever or foul-smelling discharge

• Leaking urine or stool

• Difficulty urinating or passing stool

• Signs of infection or wound separation1

Emotional Healing Matters Too

Physical recovery is just one part of the journey. Many parents feel surprised, frustrated, or even disconnected from their bodies after birth trauma. That’s valid. You’ve just done something extraordinary—and healing takes time.

Affirm this truth:

“My body is healing. I honor its strength and give it grace.”

You’re Not Alone

Whether you’re a first-time parent or a seasoned birth worker, sharing these insights can empower others to heal with confidence. Recovery isn’t linear, but with support, knowledge, and self-compassion, it becomes a path toward wholeness.

For more tips like these contact me for a free consultation!