Articles
Episiotomy: When it's needed, when it's not
The role of warm compresses and tissue massage
The episiotomy tradition
The new approach
Healing from an episiotomy
Accept some uncertainty
Content
The history
Today's approach
How it works
Episiotomy risks
Healing after an episiotomy
Learn what to expect
The episiotomy tradition
The new approach
Healing from an episiotomy
Accept some uncertainty
Content
The history
Today's approach
How it works
Episiotomy risks
Healing after an episiotomy
Learn what to expect
Healing from an episiotomy
Any stitches used to repair the episiotomy are usually absorbed on their own. You might take prescription medications or use a nonprescription pain reliever or stool softener. However, pain-relieving creams or ointments haven't been found to be effective for episiotomy wounds.
While you're healing, expect the discomfort to improve over time. Contact your health care provider if the pain gets worse. Also call your provider if you develop a fever or if the wound produces pus. These could be symptoms of an infection.
