Looking after your stitches after birth

Stitches after birth can feel sore and worrying. Here’s what the NHS says about caring for them, easing the pain and spotting problems.

Healing

The NHS says an episiotomy cut is usually repaired within an hour of the birth. Tears are stitched using dissolvable stitches too, so you won’t need to go back to have them removed. Healing should happen within about 1 month.

Looking after the area

Rinse with warm water after using the toilet, and wipe gently from front to back.
Hold a clean pad against the area when you poo.
Use an ice pack or ice cubes wrapped in a towel, never directly on the skin.
Lying on a towel without underwear for about 10 minutes once or twice a day may help.
Squatting may reduce stinging when you pee, and laxatives can help if pooing is painful.

Pain relief

The NHS says paracetamol is safe while breastfeeding, ibuprofen is thought safe but you should check with a doctor first, and you should avoid aspirin. Stronger prescription painkillers such as codeine may be needed but can affect breastfeeding.

Pelvic floor exercises

The NHS says pelvic floor exercises help healing and reduce pressure on the stitches. A midwife can explain how to do them. See pelvic floor and tummy muscles after birth.

When to get help

Tell your GP, midwife or health visitor as soon as you can if you notice red or swollen skin, pus or liquid coming from the stitches, an unusual smell, or pain that doesn’t ease. The NHS also says pain lasting beyond 2 to 3 weeks is unusual and should be raised with a health professional.

Sex

There are no rules about when to start again, and the NHS says pain is very common in the first few months after a tear or episiotomy. A water-based lubricant can help, and oil-based products such as Vaseline can damage latex condoms and diaphragms. You can get pregnant from 3 weeks after birth, so use contraception every time if you don’t want another pregnancy.

Questions people ask

How long do stitches take to dissolve?

The NHS doesn’t give a time. It says healing should happen within about 1 month.

Is it normal to still have pain after a few weeks?

The NHS says pain lasting beyond 2 to 3 weeks is unusual. Tell your midwife, GP or health visitor.

What about a third or fourth degree tear?

Third and fourth degree tears involve the muscle around the anus and need specialist stitching and follow-up. Your hospital team should explain your aftercare and arrange a follow-up. If you haven’t been told, ask your midwife or GP.