How long will the stitches take to heal?

The reason you needed them has a lot to do with the time that will be taken to heal. Generally, it takes somewhere around two to four weeks for perineal stitches to heal but not everyone’s body is the same, so one may even take a bit longer than this. On the other hand, if you had stitches due to caesarean then it will take you around 6 weeks, which can also be extended up to 12.

In this article, we will look at some of the self-care tips to fasten the recovery process and also avoid the spread of infections.

Read More: 15 Healing Tips for Post Birth Stitches and Tears

Natural Ways to Help  Stitches after Normal Delivery

Stay clean

You are likely to be provided with a squeeze bottle or sitz bath by your healthcare provider so that you can keep your perineal area clean. Put some lukewarm water in the squeeze bottle and rinse it after you go to the bathroom. On the other side, sitz baths are like plastic tubs that can be filled with lukewarm water. You are then required to sit in it for a few time that will help in cleansing your skin.

Cool temperature

This will help in the reduction of pain and will also speed up the recovery process. You can have a bath of cold water and then pat dry using a clean soft towel. Another option is to use a cold gel pack that is wrapped around in a clean flannel. However, you are only supposed to use it for half an hour and not more than that.

Read More: 7 Ways to Speed Up the Recovery from a Caesarean Delivery

Say no to sex

It is absolutely normal to find sex a lot painful for a few months after the stitches. In fact, a lot of them are also advised by their doctors to completely avoid sexual intercourse with their partners for a prescribed time. In such a case, you should talk about the same with your partner and take your time to heal before having sex.

Rest

I can understand that it’s hard to rest and even complete your sleep hours when you have your little one beside you but this one plays an important part in the healing process. Thereby, ask your family members or your friends for help when needed and most importantly, sleep when the baby falls asleep.

Stay hydrated

Remember, you do not have to resist your bowel movement whenever you feel the urge to go because this can lead to constipation. And in order to avoid constipation, it is vital for your too stay hydrated throughout the day and eat plenty of fibre so that you do not have to push hard when you go to the loo.

Read More: Post Caesarian Wound Infection: Everything you Need to Know 

Exercises

Little exercises are of no harm and by this, I mean that you can do some certain pelvic floor exercises or take short walks on a regular basis. this will help in boosting the blood circulation and furthermore, speed up the recovery process. You can do four sets of exercises throughout the day on a regular basis.

Hygiene

You may already be suffering through a lot of discomfort and pain and during this time, you should avoid any such things that can lead to the spread of infection. Therefore, you must ensure you wash your hands properly after using the toilet or changing the maternity pads.

Read More: 7 Foods that Help your Body Heal after giving Birth

Precautions for stitches after normal delivery

You must avoid any activities that can deteriorate your condition and make it even worse. Some of these activities are listed below:

• Use sanitary pads and avoid using the tampons.
• Avoid taking salt baths.
• Do not use perfumes lotions or talcum powder.
• Application of hot water or packs to the perineal area.
• Sexual intercourse
• Do not squat as this will stretch your skin.

In case, you notice any complications with your stitches, it is recommended that you consult your healthcare provider. Some of these complications are as listed below:

• Excessive bleeding or passing clots.
• High temperature.
• Severe pain in the lower abdomen.
• Pain or bad smell in the perineal area.
• An urge to poo and rush to the toilet
• Finding it hard to control the poo.

In the meantime, you can also take painkillers to ease the pain in case it gets worse. However, make sure that you confirm the medicines with your doctor at first before deciding to them on. If you notice any sign of an infection such as excessive pain or bad smell, contact your doctor straight away.

Read More: 11 Side Effects Of C-section No One Told You About