PERINEAL MASSAGE

What is Perineal Massage?

Perineal massage is the gentle stretching of the tissues that surround the vaginal opening, including the
perineum.

What is the Perineum?

The perineum is the area of tissue between the vaginal opening and the rectum. This area is susceptible to
tearing during a vaginal childbirth.

What are the benefits of Perineal Massage?

1. Decreases the likelihood of experiencing a perineal tear during vaginal childbirth by relaxing the tissues
surrounding the vagina.
2. Familiarises your nervous system and brain with the sensation of stretching of vaginal tissues, allowing
your body to be more relaxed when it occurs during a vaginal delivery.
3. Decreases the sensation of stinging during crowning.

When can I start?

32 weeks of pregnancy.

Performed by who?
This can be performed by yourself, your partner, or a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist.
*Note that your midwife or labour and delivery nurse may also perform perineal massage/stretching during
delivery. Ask your care provider if this is routine in their practice.

Method
1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Lay semi-reclined, with pillow behind you to prop you up. If performing this yourself, you can use a
mirror to help guide you.
3. Liberally apply lubricant to fingertips. This will help reduce friction.
4. Insert one finger into vagina, up to the second knuckle
5. Around the clock: Picture your vaginal opening like a clock. Gently apply pressure outwards to 2, 3, 5,
6, 7, 9, 10 o’clock. Aim to hold x 30, up to 60 seconds if able. Repeat this twice.
6. U-sweep: Next, slowly apply pressure from 3 o’clock, to 6 o’clock, to 9 o’clock (in a U-shaped sweep).
Repeat 5-10 times x 3 rounds
7. Perineal body rolling: The perineum is considered the connective tissue between the vagina and
rectum. Hold this area between your index and thumb, and, with moderate pressure, move your
fingers in opposite directions (forwards and backwards). Continue for 2 minutes
8. Peace sign stretch: Insert 2 fingers. Gently apply pressure to 3 and 9 o’clock with gentle move your
fingers out of the vaginal canal (keeping your fingers in). Repeat this 10 times. Repeat at 5 and 7
o’clock.
9. If your partner is helping you, guide them. Let them know when you feel a stretch, and what feels
comfortable for you. The more feedback you give them, the better.
10. Focus on deep breathing, relaxing your muscles throughout your inhale and exhale.

Mississauga Pelvic Health

3-3662 Hurontario Street • Mississauga, ON, L5B 1P3
905-565-2939
mississaugapelvichealth.com
 PERINEAL MASSAGE

Cautions
• Apply gentle pressure. The goal is to feel a stretching sensation, without pain.
• Do not perform this massage if you have any of the following:
o Active bladder infection
o Active yeast infection
o Active herpes lesions
o If you have been advised by your obgyn or midwife to abstain from sexual intercourse

Mississauga Pelvic Health

3-3662 Hurontario Street • Mississauga, ON, L5B 1P3
905-565-2939
mississaugapelvichealth.com