The healing time for this surgery is approximately 4-6 weeks. The actual recovery duration depends on the incision size and what kind of suture (stitch) material is used to cover or close the wound.
Post-surgical care for episiotomy
As soon as this surgery is completed, the recovery care begins. The recovery phase should take into consideration both local wound care and pain management.
In the first 12 hours of the delivery, an ice pack might be extremely helpful in preventing pain and swelling of the wound site. The spot of incision and its surrounding area needs to be kept clean and dry. This helps prevent infection.
Spare 20 minutes 3-4 times a day and soak the wound part in a small tub or bucket (whichever is comfortable) filled with warm water. It is an easy and effective way to keep the wound area clean. After every bowel movement or urination, the episiotomy incision or wound area should be cleaned thoroughly. Probably, you can use a spray bottle with lukewarm water.
Sometimes you might feel some pain when urine comes in contact with the incision area. A spray bottle can be used to reduce that pain. After spraying with water or after soaking, the wound spot should also be dried properly and gently – either with the help of a tissue or very soft towel.
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen might be used to manage pain.
You should refrain from using tampons or douches in the post-delivery phase to enable smooth healing and to prevent re-injury of the same area. Do not have sex until your episiotomy is completed healed and confirmed upon by your doctor. This might take up 4-6 weeks after your delivery.
Key takeaway
An episiotomy is a surgical procedure in which an incision is made in the perineum as part of giving birth. It might be necessary to help facilitate successful delivery of the baby. Recovery time is about 4-6 weeks, during which the incision area must be cared for and kept clean.
Learn more about Labor and Delivery here.
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