Midwife Nikki replies:There's not much difference between clips or stitches, as long as they're kept as clean and dry as possible. Stitches can be individual stitches or a long running stitch, often secured with a bead at each end. On the fifth day

of the area that was stitched. This is common and is often a cause of soreness. What has happened is that the body has generated an excess of scar tissue and produced this haphazardly along the wound. It usually flattens in time, but you can help by gently

. Stock up on disposable pants for the first couple of weeks after the birth.SWELLINGSwelling should subside in around five to seven days if you haven’t torn or had stitches, or seven to ten days if you have. Sitting in a warm bath will help, as can

There’s no denying that a vaginal birth will leave you sore and swollen. But the reality is unlikely to be as bad as you imagine, and the good news is there’s a lot you can do to help your body’s natural healing process.One way you can help prevent damage occurring to your nether...

interventions are:Stopping smokingPromoting single pregnancies in IVF treatmentReducing planned early Caesarean sectionsProviding progesterone supplements to women with high-risk pregnanciesProviding cervical stitching for women suffering a weak cervix

if they could design a version of the Mobi which included a leopard print silk lining, chocolate brown exterior, bright pink stitching and super-bling gold coloured frame. The result pictured here, will undoubtedly become the ultimate yummy mummy accessory

stitches may burst (they won't). Pour warm water from a small jug over your perineum as you wee. Some women find a tear or episiotomy gives them very little discomfort while others find it remains quite sore for several weeks. It is not abnormal to feel

.Seams are flat inside and out with no bumps or ridges to scratch against or chafe tender skin. Tear-off labels are stitched on the outside.Pure cotton comfort

is born you'll be stitched up, usually with dissolvable stitches, which takes about 30 minutes. It's advised you leave the wound open to fresh air and keep it clean and dry - a dressing isn't always necessary.You'll be given painkillers while you recover

gradually. You are less likely to tear if you take the pushing stage slowly.’ Does it hurt? ‘Your perineum is numb and stretched, so you are unlikely to feel it tearing,’ say Gaby.Will I need stitches? If it’s a small tear, probably not. ‘With a longer