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“Will I tear?”
It’s one of the most common questions people ask when preparing for birth—especially first-time birthers. The thought of tearing or needing an episiotomy during labor can feel overwhelming, particularly when it’s added to the long list of things already on your mind. But getting informed and prepared can go a long way in calming those nerves.
If you’re reading this, you’re already taking important steps to face labor with more confidence, calm, and clarity. Let’s walk through this together.
What Is Tearing During Labor?
Tearing happens when the skin and muscles around the vaginal opening stretch beyond their limit as your baby is born. It’s very common—50–70% of first-time moms experience some degree of tearing during vaginal delivery.
Not all tears are the same. They’re classified by degree based on how deep they go:
- First-degree tear: A small, shallow tear that affects only the skin. These often heal quickly and may not require stitches.
- Second-degree tear: A deeper tear involving skin and muscle. This is the most common type and usually does require stitches.
- Third-degree tear: Extends into the muscles around the anus. Requires stitches and often benefits from pelvic floor physical therapy during recovery.
- Fourth-degree tear: The most severe, extending through the rectum. It also requires stitching and a longer recovery, including pelvic floor therapy.
While it might sound scary, most tears are mild and heal well with the right care and support.
What Is an Episiotomy?
An episiotomy is a surgical cut made at the vaginal opening to help deliver the baby. While it used to be routine, medical practice has changed significantly. Today, providers typically allow the body to tear naturally unless there’s a specific reason to intervene, such as:
- A need to deliver the baby quickly due to heart rate concerns
- Difficulty delivering the baby’s shoulders
- Use of tools like a vacuum or forceps
Episiotomies are now used sparingly and usually only in urgent situations. If one is needed, your provider will use local anesthesia (and possibly additional pain relief via your IV or epidural) to keep you as comfortable as possible.
What Happens If You Tear or Have an Episiotomy?
If you experience a tear or receive an episiotomy, your provider will carefully repair the area after birth—often while you’re skin-to-skin with your baby. They’ll use dissolvable stitches that your body absorbs over time, and anesthesia will be used to keep you comfortable during the repair.
Pain management starts right away. You may receive ice packs, numbing spray, and medication to help ease discomfort. Most people describe the pain as sore, tender, or stinging—especially during activities like sitting, using the bathroom, or moving around in the early days postpartum.
What Recovery Feels Like Postpartum
Healing from a tear or episiotomy is a process, but the good news is that most people feel significantly better within 2–3 weeks, with full recovery typically taking 4–6 weeks, depending on the severity.
In the early days, you might notice:
- Swelling or bruising
- Tenderness when sitting
- Discomfort while urinating
- Light bleeding (which is normal for all postpartum recoveries)
Self-Care Tips for Healing
Caring for your body after birth is essential—especially if you’ve had a tear or episiotomy. Here are expert-backed tips to support your healing:
- Ice packs: Use them in the first 24 hours to reduce swelling and numb the area.
- Peri bottle: Rinse with warm water while urinating to ease stinging.
- Sitz baths: Soak your bottom in warm water 1–2 times per day to soothe soreness.
- Rest: Keep your feet up and take it easy—your body needs time to repair.
- Stay ahead of pain: Use pain relievers and numbing sprays as recommended by your provider.
- Use the right products: The right postpartum supplies can make a big difference.
Having your recovery essentials on hand can help you feel more prepared and supported. The Momcozy Postpartum Recovery Essentials Kit includes ice packs, cooling sprays, a peri bottle, and more—all thoughtfully designed to make healing easier and more comfortable.
Encouraging Self-Advocacy
You have a voice in your birth experience—and it’s OK to use it. Before labor, talk to your provider about your preferences and what to expect. Consider asking:
- What can I do during pregnancy to reduce my risk of tearing?
- How do you typically support the perineum during birth?
- When might you recommend an episiotomy?
- What will recovery support look like if I tear?
- Are there ways we can work together to protect my pelvic floor?
Being informed and asking questions helps you feel more connected, empowered, and in control during labor and recovery.
Final Thoughts
Whether you experience a tear, an episiotomy, or neither, know that your body is strong and capable—and that you’ll be well supported through the healing process. You don’t have to go into labor feeling uncertain or unprepared. A little knowledge (and the right tools) can make all the difference.
You've got this—and we’re here with you every step of the way.
