Thrive and Shine Women's Wellness

Obstetric Tears Physiotherapy in North Somerset

Specialist women’s health physiotherapy support for perineal tears and stitches after childbirth

What are obstetric (perineal) tears?

Obstetric tears, often referred to as perineal tears, are injuries to the perineum (the area between the vagina and anus) that can occur during vaginal birth. These tears may happen naturally or as part of an episiotomy, and many require stitches after birth. Tears vary in severity and are commonly classified from first-degree to fourth-degree, depending on the tissues involved.

While many perineal tears heal well, some women experience ongoing symptoms such as pain, sensitivity, pelvic floor changes, or discomfort with everyday activities, long after the initial healing period.

Common symptoms following perineal tears

Symptoms following perineal tears can vary and may include one or more of the following:

  • Perineal pain or discomfort

  • Scar tightness, pulling, or sensitivity

  • Altered sensation, including numbness or heightened sensitivity

  • Pain during intercourse or difficulty with penetration

  • Pelvic floor weakness or reduced control

  • Bladder or bowel control symptoms

  • Ongoing discomfort with sitting, walking, or daily activities

  • Fear or anxiety around intimacy, pelvic examinations, or returning to exercise

How physiotherapy can help following perineal tears

Women’s health physiotherapy following perineal tears focuses on supporting recovery of the perineum, pelvic floor, and surrounding structures, while also addressing the wider physical and functional impact of childbirth.

Physiotherapy support may include:

  • Assessment of scar healing, mobility, and sensitivity

  • Hands-on treatment to address scar and surrounding soft tissue restriction

  • Pelvic floor assessment and rehabilitation

  • Support to improve pelvic floor strength, coordination, or relaxation

  • Guidance with managing pain, sensitivity, or discomfort

  • Treatment of related musculoskeletal issues, such as pelvic, hip, or back pain

  • Movement-based rehabilitation and graded return to activity

  • Support with confidence around movement, exercise, and intimacy

  • Consideration of wider recovery factors such as stress, sleep, and fatigue

Support is always tailored to the individual, based on symptoms, contributing factors, and personal goals.

When to seek support

If you have experienced a third-degree or fourth-degree tear, it is strongly recommended to have a physiotherapy assessment, even if you feel you are coping well. These tears involve deeper tissues and benefit from specialist assessment to support recovery and pelvic floor function.

If you have had a first- or second-degree tear, physiotherapy can still be helpful, particularly if you are experiencing symptoms such as pain, sensitivity, bladder or bowel changes, or discomfort with movement or intercourse.

Even if you are not currently experiencing symptoms, many women find it reassuring to have a postnatal check following any perineal tear. An assessment can help identify any areas that may benefit from support and provide guidance for recovery, confidence, and return to activity.

Appointments take place at the clinic in Winscombe, supporting women across North Somerset.

Book an appointment

If you have experienced a perineal tear during childbirth, a women’s health physiotherapy appointment offers the opportunity to check healing, discuss any concerns, and receive guidance to support recovery and confidence moving forward.

Many women choose to book an assessment whether they are experiencing symptoms or simply want reassurance and advice as they return to everyday activities, exercise, and intimacy.

If you’re unsure whether this is the right appointment for you, you’re welcome to get in touch to discuss your options.

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Get in Touch

Thrive and Shine Women's Wellness Studio

Corner House

Woodborough Road

Winscombe

BS25 1AQ

07862620259

Thrive and Shine Women’s Wellness provides Physiotherapy, Pilates, menopause support, and remedial hypnosis / CONTROL method for women across Winscombe, Weston-super-Mare, Cheddar, Axbridge, and North Somerset.

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