Preventing Tears
Preventing Tears
Many pregnant women are concerned that they might care when they give birth, but there are things you can do to help prevent this:
- Giving birth at home
- Giving birth in water
- Your position as you give birth - give preference to staying upright, forward and open.
- Perineal massage
- Gently breathing the baby down
Remember many women do not tear
Perineal Protectors? By Rachel Reed
Evidence on Perineal Tears and the Importance of Avoiding Episiotomy
Fear causes tears - Perineal injuries in home birth settings. A Swedish interview study
Perineal outcomes in a home birth setting
Perineal Massage
Perineal massage is shown to reduce the risk of tearing in childbirth. Here are some tools: