Surviving an Episiotomy: A New Mom's Guide to Recovery
Picture this: you've just brought a beautiful bundle of joy into the world, and along with the bliss of new motherhood comes a few not-so-pleasant side effects, one of them being the dreaded episiotomy.
Don't worry, though; you're not alone in this. Many moms have been where you are in recovering from episiotmy, and they've survived it with grace, humor, and a few tried-and-true remedies. So, buckle up, because we're about to share a few secrets to recovery that'll have you feeling like yourself again in no time.
Postpartum Recovery: Levels of Episiotomy
Typically, episiotomies are classified into four levels. A first-degree episiotomy involves a small incision in the vaginal tissue, while a second-degree episiotomy extends into the muscles of the perineum. Third-degree episiotomies reach the anal sphincter, though they are less common due to increased risk of complications. And a fourth-degree goes all the way through the anal sphincter.
The level of episiotomy depends on factors such as the baby's size, the mother's anatomy, and the urgency of the delivery. Recovery from an episiotomy and vaginal tears like these can vary, but proper care and attention can help alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
The Pains of Episiotomy: A Rite of Passage
Let's address the elephant in the room: the pain. Yes, we won't sugarcoat it. An episiotomy, the surgical cut made to widen the vaginal opening during childbirth, can leave you feeling sore, tender, and downright uncomfortable. And let's not forget about the possibility of those pesky hemorrhoids making an appearance, adding insult to injury.
The good news is that a full recovery is not just a distant dream; it's completely attainable with the right care, time, and the products to support you.
Dead Sea Salt Bath Soak: The Secret to Soothing Vaginal Tears
Ah, the blissful escape of a soothing bath. Imagine yourself soaking in warm water infused with CaboCréme's Postpartum Sitz + Bath Salts, feeling your aches melt away with each passing minute.
We created our postpartum bath soak to give you the extra healing power of magnesium chloride in dead sea salt as well as the anti-inflammatory properties of cabbage extract, calendula, arnica, and vitamin E. Aim for 3 to 5 baths per week, whether you opt for a specialized Sitz bath or simply sink into your regular tub. Trust us; your body will thank you for it.
Perineal Numbing Spray: A Word of Caution
There are several numbing sprays on the market; however, most contain ingredients that sting and can be incredibly uncomfortable. Try if you must, but don’t say we didn’t warn you!
Get a Donut - Not the One You Eat
If you’ve had a third or fourth-degree episiotomy, you’ll want to get an inflatable donut to sit on. This will take immediate pressure off of the sensitive area. You’ll likely want to use this for several weeks as you heal.
Nourish Your Gut, Soften Your Stool
Now, let's talk about the unglamorous side of recovery: bathroom visits. Trust us; we get it. The last thing you want to deal with postpartum is constipation and dreaded hemorrhoids. That's where high fiber foods come to the rescue. Load up on fruits, veggies, whole grains, and legumes to keep things moving smoothly down there. Your gut will thank you, and so will your episiotomy wounds.
An over-the-counter stool softener can work wonders as well. Start these as soon as you can after delivery. If you’re in dire straits, you can purchase magnesium citrate and you’re guaranteed success, just don’t go very far from the house.
Embrace the Road to Recovery with CaboCréme
With CaboCreme's Postpartum Sitz + Bath Salts by your side, you'll be navigating through your postpartum journey with more comfort. So draw yourself a luxurious bath and embrace the healing powers of Dead Sea salt and nourishing botanicals. Do this for yourself. Your body, mind, and spirit will thank you for it. Here's to a fast, soothing recovery and many joy-filled moments with your little one!
