Second-degree tears are deeper and affect the muscle of the perineum. These usually need to be repaired soon after birth using dissolvable stitches.
Second-degree tears involve the skin and muscle of the perineum and might extend deep into the vagina. Second-degree tears typically require stitches and heal within a few weeks.
second degree tears don’t usually cause long-term issues. Instead, the stitches will typically dissolve on their own within 6 weeks. That’s right — you won’t need to return to your doctor to have the stitches removed, so you can take that off of your to-do list.
It’s completely normal to have pain or soreness in and around the stitches, especially when you’re sitting or walking. Fortunately, many people report feeling less discomfort within just 2 weeks of delivery.
Home remedies for faster healing:
Use a peri bottle. Your hospital may even give you this postpartum essential as a parting gift before you return home. You fill the bottle with lukewarm water and point the stream at your perineum as you urinate to eliminate stinging.
Change your pads often. This will help keep the area clean and dry and ward off bacteria.
Use cooling pads. Consider layering your pads with Tucks medicated cooling pads or similar ones containing witch hazel. While traditionally used to help treat hemorrhoids, they may help relieve burning and itching around your stitches.
Try showering daily. Timing showers and bathing after bowel movements gives you an opportunity to wash away anything you missed that might infect your stitches.
Drink plenty of water. Aim for six to eight glasses each day to help keep your bowel movements regular and soft. If you’re worried about pooping with your stitches, that’s completely understandable. Still, it’s necessary to avoid constipation, which could be a whole lot more painful.
Eat a varied diet. Be sure to opt for foods that are rich in fiber, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, over cereal, whole grain breads, and pastas.
Kegels, Kegels, Kegels. When you feel ready (as soon as 2 to 3 days after delivery), be sure to do regular Kegel exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles.
How long does a 2nd degree tear take to heal after birth?
