Vaginal Birth Recovery

It’s normal for you to have symptoms such as swelling, bruising and pain around your perineal area (between your birth canal/vaginal and bottom/anal openings) after a vaginal birth.  Some people may have an episiotomy (a cut between the birth canal/vaginal and bottom/anal openings) that may be tender and uncomfortable. 

It is important to know how to reduce perineal discomfort and care for (clean) your perineum following a vaginal birth, whether or not you have an episiotomy.  Your nurse, midwife or physician will give you this information before you are discharged from the hospital or following a home birth.

• Pregnancy Info - Vaginal Recovery

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• Mayo Clinc - Postpartum care: What to expect after a vaginal delivery