Contents
Looking to perform a perineal massage? Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
Checkout this video:
Introduction
A perineal massage is a type of massage that helps to promote relaxation of the muscles in the perineum. This muscle group is located between the anus and the scrotum in males, and between the anus and the vagina in females. The perineum is often referred to as the “taint” or “gooch.”
Perineal massages can be performed by either gender on oneself or by a partner. This type of massage can be used to prepare for childbirth, as well as to promote healing after childbirth. Perineal massages are also said to help with urinary incontinence and pelvic floor dysfunction.
To perform a perineal massage, you will need:
– Lubricant (can be purchased at most drugstores)
– Clean hands
– A towel or washcloth (optional)
– A comfortable place to lie down
What is a Perineal Massage?
A perineal massage is a massage of the perineum, which is the area between the anus and the genitals. The purpose of a perineal massage is to improve blood circulation and flexibility in this area, which can help to prevent or reduce pain during childbirth.
Perineal massages are most commonly performed during the last few weeks of pregnancy, but they can be done earlier if needed. They usually take place once or twice a week, and each session lasts for about 10 minutes.
If you’re planning to have a perineal massage, talk to your doctor or midwife first to make sure it’s appropriate for you.
Why is Perineal Massage Important?
Perineal massage is when you massage the perineum, which is the area between the anus and the vulva or scrotum. The perineum stretches when you give birth, and this massage can help reduce the risk of tearing.
Tears happen when the baby’s head is too big to fit through the pelvis without stretching the perineum too much. The risk of tearing increases if you’ve had a baby before, if your baby is big, or if you’re having a forceps or ventouse delivery.
Perineal massage may also help reduce the need for an episiotomy (a cut made in the perineum to make more space for your baby to be born).
How to Perform a Perineal Massage
The perineum is the area between the anus and the scrotum in males, and between the anus and the vulva in females. It stretches to accommodate a baby during childbirth, but can tear or become damaged during delivery.
To help reduce the risk of perineal tearing, many healthcare providers recommend perineal massage beginning at 34-36 weeks gestation. Perineal massage helps to increase blood flow and elasticity to the perineum, making it more likely to stretch instead of tear during childbirth.
Follow these steps to perform a perineal massage:
-Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
-Apply a water-soluble lubricant such as KY Jelly liberally to your thumbs and index fingers.
-Find a comfortable position. You may want to sit on the toilet with your legs slightly apart, or lie down on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the bed.
-Place your thumbs into the vagina about an inch apart and press down towards the rectum while maintaining pressure on both sides of the vaginal opening. You should feel resistance as you reach deep tissue.
-Move your thumbs in a U-shape from side to side along the bottom edge of the vaginal opening several times.
-With both thumbs still inside the vagina, press down firmly towards the rectum while spreading your fingers apart along either side of vaginal opening, making a V shape with your hands. You should feel resistance as you reach deep tissue.
Repeat these massaging techniques for 5 minutes daily until delivery.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has been helpful in teaching you how to perform a perineal massage. This simple technique can help reduce the risk of tearing during childbirth and promote healing afterwards. Remember to be gentle with yourself and listen to your body to ensure the best possible experience.
