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Aiding Childbirth with Episiotomy on the Central Coast

During childbirth, an episiotomy can progress a vaginal birth when your baby needs a little extra help to enter the world.

A large baby or one that isn’t positioned headfirst can lead to an episiotomy, which is an incision made between your vagina and anus, so that your Dignity Health Central Coast doctor or midwife can safely deliver your baby.

Find a Doctor at one of our birthing centers who is focused on you and your baby’s well-being. We can help you know what to expect from childbirth, including the possibility of episiotomy, on the Central Coast of California.

 

Episiotomy Care at Dignity Health Central Coast

In addition to the size and position of your baby, an episiotomy also helps if your doctor needs to deliver your baby right away or when instruments are used to help with birth. If you are concerned about having episiotomy stitches, talk with your doctor or midwife about perineal massage before you deliver to soften your tissue. Massage and warm compresses to the area during labor and delivery also can prevent a perineal tear and the need for an episiotomy. Your healing and well-being, as well as your personal wishes, will help guide your health care providers during your entire birthing experience.

 

Episiotomy Healing After Your Baby’s Delivery

Your doctor will carefully close the incision with episiotomy stitches and repair any perineal tears. You will likely feel sensitive and sore in that area for a few weeks. To help with healing and reduce any pain, here are a few tips offered by doctors at our Dignity Health Central Coast birthing centers:

  • Apply cool packs and ice.
  • Sit carefully and use a pillow if it provides comfort.
  • Use a squeeze bottle with lukewarm water on your perineum when you urinate.
  • Take recommended medications.
  • Soak the area in a clean sitz bath to ease pain.

We want you to feel as confident and comfortable as possible going into labor and delivery. Talk with an expert from episiotomy during childbirth today.

Dignity Health birthing centers help deliver babies safety with episiotomy on the Central Coast of California.