Hi, has anyone tried perineum massage in their previous pregnancies? Do you feel that it helped stretch your skin and did you tear/need stitches?

Is anyone currently doing the massage? When did you start and what kind of oil are you using?

I've heard some people saying it's a waste of time but don't really know anyone who's tried it. This is my first pregnancy (currently 24 weeks) and I'm so scared of labour/birth that I'm willing to give it a go! Read that you should start at the last 6 weeks before you're due but you have to do it religiously otherwise it won't work!

Your opinions/experiences would be appreciated. x

ohh i always said id try this and never did... i think u need to start from about 32 weeks and use some sort of lubricant... mind i had a 9lb 4 1/2 oz baby and only a tiny graze sorry not much help but i guess every little helps and if it makes u feel better doing it....
good luck on ur pregnancy love gemma n maddie xxx

I am nearly 34 weeks and intend starting perineal massage. I look at it this way, its a way of you and your partner being close and it can't hurt to try it. If it works, it works and if it doesn't, you had some fun!

I am 33+3 and have looked into this and discussed with my consultant. I think it's worthwhile - I'm measuring 4 weeks ahead of my dates and at my 32 week growth scan baby was already 5lbs 5oz so we think he'll be a big'un!! I think it can't do any harm at the end of the day, plus if you do tear or end up having an episiotomy and haven't done it, you'll think 'what if...?'

Here is a 'how to' guide I found on a US womens healthcare website which is the best guidance I've come across so far:-

Baby size doesn't really have anything to do with the amount of tearing you might experience. How big your baby's head is will actually determine whether or not you experience any tearing during delivery.

Is there anything you can do to avoid an episiotomy? Some women and healthcare providers encourage gentle stretching of the birth canal during labor and delivery. This is often referred to as a perineal massage. You can actually perform this massage in the weeks leading up to your birth.

Perineal massage is a form of exercise that can help prepare your body for labor. Many women begin massage in the five to six weeks leading up to delivery. Use of perineal massage may help reduce your risks for excessive tearing.

Many women choose to perform a perineal massage themselves, however there is no reason your partner can't help you. To perform a perineal massage you will need to do the following:

* Sit in a position that allows you to remain comfortable with your legs apart.
* Place some water soluble lubricant on your fingers and thumbs as well as the area between your vagina and anus.
* Next you will place your thumbs into the vagina about half way. Spread your legs and press down firmly on the perineal area. Try pressing down and to the sides at the same time so that you are stretching the area.
* Hold for a few minutes. You should feel some tingling.
* Massage the lower vaginal canal back and forth.

It is best that you ask your healthcare provider exactly how to perform a perineal massage if you are interested. It is often hard to visualize such activities without someone actually showing you how to perform them.

Ultimately the best way to avoid tearing is through a slow decent and controlled delivery of the head. If you work with a qualified health practitioner, you have the best chance of delivering your baby with minimal damage to your vagina and surrounding areas. If you have concerns about tearing talk with your healthcare provider. Typically your healthcare provider will be able to alleviate some of your concerns and inform you of all your options prior to delivery.

Good luck! Vicky x