During a vaginal delivery the pelvic floor muscles are stretched and you may develop a tear in the pelvic floor muscles that requires stitches.

It is important to exercise your pelvic floor muscles if you have had a tear or not.

• It increases blood flow to the area
• Stimulates healing
• Helps to reduce swelling

3rd or 4th degree tears

Significant perineal trauma will have been referred to us by the midwife/consultant and will be reviewed at 6-8 weeks by telephone. A series of questions will determine whether an appointment to see a physiotherapist is required.

Pelvic Floor Exercises

The pelvic floor muscles are at the bottom of your pelvis supporting the pelvic organs.

Pelvic floor muscles are needed to:

• Aid bladder and bowel control
• Help reduce any pelvic pain you may have experienced during your pregnancy
• Help prevent a prolapse of your pelvic organs
• Increase sexual enjoyment for you and your partner.

You can start your pelvic floor exercises as soon as you have had the baby.

If you have a urinary catheter inserted you may want to wait until it is removed and you are passing urine normally before you start the exercises.

For more information:

• Pelvic Floor Exercises For Women