Is this true? I've been doing them religiously because the thought of tearing during labor (and then having to pee afterwards while the area heals) terrifies the crap out of me.
They are supposed to help after the delivery, not with tearing. Try perineal massage if you are that worried, but it really is somewhat out of your control.
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Nope - it's to help strengthen your pelvic floor for pushing and recovery (snizzing prevention!).
Perineal massage during labor helps though as does having a practitioner who really works with you while you are pushing. And of course some luck is involved. But I swear by the perineal massage - kiddo had a big ole head and yet I had only a tiny (not even 1st degree) tear.
Re: Kegels really help prevent tearing during labor?
it did not help me, although the peeing afterward was not as bad as the #2's! I was scared to death to do it, because it HURT every time! Sorry (TMI)
I hear that the warm compresses help during labor. Although I cannot tell for sure if it really does.
Nope - it's to help strengthen your pelvic floor for pushing and recovery (snizzing prevention!).
Perineal massage during labor helps though as does having a practitioner who really works with you while you are pushing. And of course some luck is involved. But I swear by the perineal massage - kiddo had a big ole head and yet I had only a tiny (not even 1st degree) tear.
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