Pereneal Massage!

So here's a subject I find no one is willing to have a chat about.  

***WARNING!***

This blog post contains graphic images and references to female genitalia! 

When I have raised the subject talking to other mothers, or mum-to-be's, I am usually met with screwed up noses and red cheeks! So I have done my research, I don't want to take any chances when it comes to tears.


I've been looking into medically approved sites and I have also chatted to the mums who didn't mind getting into that conversation, and I've come up with  a few things I'd like to share with any expectant mothers who want to start pereneal massage.


First You need a substance you can use for massage, there are a wide variety of products on sale at most maternity shops and drug stores. The product I have begun using is:

Mothercare Bump and Beyond Perfect Delivery Perineal Gel - 30ml

Mothercare's pereneal gel retails at £4.99 for 30ml, which isn't that great value for money, this bottle isn't much bigger than my mobile phone.

It's main ingredients are 5 essential oils including Olive and Calendula oils. The product feels smooth and smells faintly of olive oil. 

I have very sensitive skin so I was a little skeptical about using a bottled product instead of using a natural remedy, but this gel contains barely anything but natural oils and has been lovely to use!

I have noticed an improvement in elasticity in the pereneal area after only 1 week of using this product, but the real test is the birth :)

I will post my thoughts on whether it was worth it to use pereneal products and massage once bump is here!

I would recommend this product, but would suggest perhaps buying some olive oil and using that instead, as it has the same effect, and is much better value.

Massage time!

So here is the technique I've been using for the past week! Usually you wouldn't start this exercise until 6 weeks before your due date, but it doesn't do any harm to get there early! (even if I am 7 months early!) 

I recommend massaging every day from 5-10 min.

This massage can be done by yourself or your partner. Find a warm and comfortable place, you may want to sit with your knees bent or reclining in a position that allows you access to your perineum.

I hope this step by step guide helps you out, and I'm more than willing to answer any questions if this isn't clear, just email allyamourbaby@gmail.com

Step by Step!

A wonderfully graphic image to help you locate the pereneum!

1. Start with clean hands! also you want to make sure there are no sharp edges to your nails before you start.
2. Locate the perineum, directly below the vagina. It is the skin between the vagina and the anus.
3. Apply whichever product you chose to use on thumbs and perineal tissues if done by yourself or on both index fingers if done by your partner
4. Place the lubricated thumbs at the base of the vagina and slowly insert them inside to about 1 inch (up to your first joint)
5. Using gentle but firm pressure, press thumbs down towards the anus and up the side walls as if you were making a “U” and hold this position for 2 breaths
6. Take a big breath in through your nose, exhale and relax the muscles
7. Slowly return the thumbs to the base of the vagina, and repeat this process for 5- 10 min.

As you become more comfortable with the massage you will notice less burning and more elasticity of your perineum. You may increase the amount of pressure next time you massage.

The same technique can be applied when you are receiving the massage from your partner, however instead of thumb he or she can use the index fingers. Take this opportunity to learn how to relax your muscles and practice deep breathing exercise, which will serve you greatly during labor.

I really hope you all find this useful! Good luck and congratulations!

Ally