Perineal Massage Oil

HOW TO PREPARE: Take a warm bath or shower, using a washcloth compress to soften the area (approx. 10 minutes). Clean hands (yours/your partners) and make sure your nails are neatly trimmed.

TECHNIQUE 1: Lay in a comfortable position on a clean towel. Try propping your back up with pillows. Lean back with your legs apart reach your
hands in front. Gently insert both thumbs or fingers (if partner), 3-5cms into the vagina. Firmly apply pressure in a downward-and-out motion towards 5 and 7 o’clock using PURE MAMA Perineal Massage Oil. You can progress this to a sweeping motion.

TECHNIQUE 2: Alternatively standing with your leg propped up on a small chair, in a lunge position reaching hands behind. Gently insert one thumb 3-5cm towards the opposite side of the vagina. Firmly apply pressure in a downward-and-out motion towards 5 and 7 o’clock using PURE MAMA Perineal Massage Oil. Hold for 1 minute, repeat if necessary. Then swap arms and legs. Finish with a sweeping motion.

HOW IT SHOULD FEEL:
This massage should be felt as a strong stretching sensation, and held at the point between discomfort and pain. About 4/10 on the pain scale. The skin may also have a burning sensation which will diminish over time.

Avoid perineal massage if you are less than 34 weeks gestation, are at risk of early labour, your waters have broken, have placenta previa or any bleeding, or you have a vaginal infection such as thrush, herpes, urinary tract infection. If you have any medical conditions, please consult with your LMC before beginning.

Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil; Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil; Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil*; Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Extract*; Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil; Tocopheryl Acetate; Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil*; Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract. *Certified Organic. No parabens or sulphates. Fragrance free.

What is perineal massage? Perineal massage involves gently stretching and massaging the perineum, the area between the vaginal opening and the anus to increase its elasticity. This practice aims to prepare the perineal tissues for childbirth, potentially reducing the risk of tearing and the need for an episiotomy during vaginal delivery.

When should I start using it in my pregnancy? Begin anytime after 34 weeks.

How often should I use it? Aim to massage 2-3 times a week, for about 3-4 minutes.

Does perineal massage hurt? You may experience a slight burning or stretching sensation during the massage, especially initially. This discomfort should decrease over time as the tissues become more elastic. The sensation should not be painful; if you experience significant pain, stop the massage and consult your healthcare provider.

Can my partner assist with perineal massage? Yes, if you feel comfortable, your partner can assist with the massage. They should follow the same hygiene and technique guidelines, using clean hands and applying gentle pressure to avoid discomfort.

Will it help with tearing? While every birth outcome is different, research has shown perineal massage can help prevent the risk of tearing by by 64%*

Can I use it postpartum too? Definitely. Our Perineal Massage Oil is just as beneficial postpartum to soothe, hydrate, and support skin recovery after birth.

Are there any risks or contraindications? Perineal massage is generally safe, but you should avoid it if:

• You have an active vaginal infection (e.g., thrush, herpes)
• You have a low-lying placenta (placenta previa)
• You experience vaginal bleeding during the second or third trimester.
  

Always consult your healthcare provider before starting perineal massage to ensure it's appropriate for your specific situation.