Signs of tearing perineal stitches

The article was professionally consulted by BSCK I Tran Thi Phuong Loan, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vinmec Phu Quoc International General Hospital.

Many pregnant women when giving birth, doctors cut the episiotomy and sew it up completely after the birth. However, sometimes the condition of the perineal stitches is torn, leading to bleeding, which worries many women. So what are the signs of tearing the perineal stitch and how should you handle it?

Perineal stitches in postpartum women are similar to those after surgery in other areas of the body. Usually, if the postpartum woman is cared for carefully and does not have any complications, the perineal stitch will heal on its own in 2-3 weeks. After about 1 month, the perineum will be relatively stable, feeling restored. Currently, doctors often use self-dissolving sutures to suture the perineum, which will help women not need to cut sutures.
However, not everyone is favorable for the perineum to heal itself completely. In fact, perineal stitches can be torn due to a number of reasons as follows
The cleaning process of the perineal stitches is not clean, many foreign bodies are left, making it difficult for the wound to heal. After suturing, the new tissue in the perineum is quite weak, easily damaged by the suture, causing the perineal suture to loosen and break. Some women's bad living habits, such as sitting on one side, holding the baby in the wrong position, having to change diapers or walking a lot, make the stitches open, torn or broken.

If you notice the following abnormalities, it is best to go to a medical facility for advice
Stitches perineal pain, discharge, and bad odor (sign of an infection in the perineum) Fever or chills Lower abdominal pain Pain and burning when urinating Incontinence when defecating No can control bowel movements Heavy bleeding or blood clots.

Infection is the primary risk when an episiotomy is torn. Moreover, this condition makes the healing process affected, causing a lot of pain, leaving scars, causing cosmetic loss. Thus, when realizing that there is an abnormality occurring after perineal stitches, women should immediately go to a medical facility for examination, to avoid dangerous complications.
The gynecologist will check the damage to the perineum to advise on timely handling. Depending on the case, the doctor can use massage to help soften the scar or do plastic surgery. In addition, women should pay attention to hygiene in the intimate area. Pay attention to perform gently, properly and always keep the private area dry, because the postoperative wound in this area is quite sensitive and prone to infection.
On the other hand, when you have a torn perineal stitch, you shouldn't worry too much, but take the initiative to see a doctor. Choosing a reputable medical facility with long-term expertise also contributes to quick recovery of perineal stitches and high aesthetics.

The problem of tearing the perineal stitches directly affects the genitals, so many women wonder how long it will take for the perineal stitches to heal completely, or when they can have normal sex again.
After performing the episiotomy, childbirth and complete stitches, it usually takes 2-3 weeks for the stitches to heal. It is best for the full recovery of function, then women should wait more than a month to be able to have normal sex again. For the fastest and safest recovery process, you need to note the following things to take care of the perineal stitches properly
At first it may be difficult and painful to walk, but please take care. Try to walk gently because this will help blood circulation better, the wound will be less red and swollen. Do not walk strongly and go up and down stairs too much, avoid wearing high heels, limit vigorous exercise or do other things. heavy, affecting posture Clean private area properly and cleanly, do not douche deep inside the vagina, easy to cause perineal sutures to break thread Choose loose, soft, comfortable underwear , cool After urinating or defecating, you should wash it with clean water. Eat a nutritious diet, avoid hot spicy foods, alcohol, and cigarettes. Spend a lot of time resting at home. Hopefully the above information about perineal stitches can help you prepare mentally and physically before and after giving birth.