Question
Hello doctor, I gave birth 1 month and 1 week ago, but my perineal stitches are still swollen. It feels a bit sore if I press lightly on it, but otherwise, I don’t feel anything. I don’t have any pus, fever, or bleeding. Is it normal for the swelling to go away on its own? Thank you!
-Ms. Chi (Hai Phong)
Hello doctor. I gave birth 1.5 months ago. I had a natural birth, and now the stitches in my perineum are suddenly swollen and sore. Can you explain this to me? Thank you, doctor.
-Anonymous Question
Hello doctor, I had a natural birth and an episiotomy. After 1 week, the wound was less painful, but recently, it has become more painful and sore, and the incision is red. Can you give me some advice? Thank you.
-Vũ Thị Liên (1992)
Answer
Hello, the perineotomy/episiotomy, is usually performed for women during natural childbirth to help the baby be born safely and more easily. After the perineal stitching procedure, it is completely normal for the stitches to be swollen and painful. The swelling and pain at the stitches will last about 5 to 7 days. After this period, the stitches will start to heal and may still be slightly swollen. The perineum after stitching can develop scar tissue, which can make walking painful. If this condition persists, or if there is swelling, bleeding, or pus, you should see a doctor.
-Dr. Le Thi Phuong - Obstetrics and Gynecology Department - Vinmec Ha Long International Hospital
