Vaginal or perinea tear is common in women delivering for the first time, and in women with big babies. A midwife may intentionally cut your vagina to create enough space for your baby to pass. Such cutting is called episiotomy. The episiotomy and tears are repaired after the placenta has been removed.

Vaginal care after repair:

1. Change your sanitary pad frequently
2. Ensure strict hygiene to prevent infection of the stitched area
3. Pour lukewarm water on your vagina after urination
4. Go without pants often so that the area gets enough air
5. Do Sitz bath regularly
6. Take painkillers e.g., paracetamol to relieve pain in the stitched area
7. Episiotomy and tears heal within 2-4 weeks except it is infected in which case you may perceive bad smell or foul discharge from the stitched area.