The perineum is the area of skin and muscle between the vaginal opening and the anus (back passage).
Download our Wound Care Leaflet for more information about looking after your perineal wound until it has healed.
Most perineal wounds heal well. It is important however to be aware of possible complications and the resultant signs and symptoms to look out for in order to highlight them to your midwife as soon as possible.
A haematoma is a blood clot which can form underneath the wound. This can impede the healing of the wound so it is important that it is identified early. These symptoms are usually more apparent in the early stages.
There is a higher chance of infection in perineal wounds due to their location. An infection usually becomes obvious at around 3 – 5 days.
If you have any of these symptoms please speak to your midwife as soon as possible, as the wound will need to be examined and you may need to start a course of antibiotics.
If the stitches come undone and the wound opens up do not panic – they will rarely re-suture the wound and it usually heals well.
Your Midwife or GP may refer you to Physiotherapy if you have developed a haematoma or if the perineal wound has broken down (become infected or opened up). You will be contacted by telephone usually within 48 hours in order to arrange an assessment appointment.
Possible treatment options include Omega Laser (for wound breakdown) and Pulsed Shortwave (for haematoma). Both treatments are relatively quick and will not cause you any pain or discomfort.