Healing the Perineum after Birth

Vaginal birth takes a toll on the perineum. Even without tears, you will have lots of healing to do. These recipes contain soothing herbs that will help speed recovery.

Padsicles

Padsicles combine cold with healing herbs and witch hazel. Spray maxipads with herbal infusion and witch hazel, add aloe gel, freeze. Use within the first 24-48 hours postpartum.

Periwash

Fill a spray bottle 2/3 with herbal infusion and 1/3 with witch hazel. Use to clean the perineum after using the toilet.

Sitz Bath

Combine herbal infusion, Epsom salt, witch hazel, and baking soda in warm water. Soak for about 20 minutes.

Herbal Infusion

• 1 oz dried Comfrey leaves (not roots)
• 1 oz dried Calendula flowers
• 1 oz dried Yarrow flowers
• 1 oz dried Lavender flowers

Bring 6 cups water to boil, add herbs, steep 30 minutes, strain.