Tips to prevent episiotomy
In Spain, 90 percent of episiotomies are performed every year, a very high number that has managed to alert the World Health Organization. Episiotomy is a surgical cut performed during vaginal delivery, in the perineum. Many Spanish gynecologists and midwives bet because the practice of episiotomy is increasingly restrictive.
According to the WHO, episiotomy should not be performed in more than 20 percent of births. There are other techniques that help facilitate delivery without carrying out this surgery, as are the massages in the area of the perineum, with natural oils that help to hydrate and stimulate the production of elastin and collagen, and Kegel exercises, which strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor.
How to practice this perineal massage?
It must be done at least twice a week for four or six weeks prior to the birth of the baby. The massages should be prolonged at least between five and ten minutes each time, with movements in the shape of a U, always practiced with the index fingers and thumb impregnated in 100% natural oil. It is best to always do it in a position that is comfortable either squatting, sitting or lying down.
What are Kegel exercises?
The Kegel exercises are exercises designed to strengthen the pelvic muscles. They are also recommended to avoid common disorders such as urinary incontinence or to facilitate the part.
As for the theory of Kegel exercises, it is enough to perform contractions of the vaginal muscles: up to 200 repetitions per day, divided into several series. LThe exercises can be completed with specific devicesfor pregnant women who, by constantly changing their size, help prepare the birth canal.
Other recommendations to prevent episiotomy
Practice disciplines such as pilates, yoga or spherodynamicsalso allows to improve circulation, elasticity and strengthen the tone of the pelvic muscles, as well as control respiratory capacity.
- YogaLearning to breathe properly and maintain strong muscles are some of the goals of yoga, an ideal sport for pregnant women. It also reduces depressive symptoms duringgestation due to the change of hormones that the woman suffers.
- Pilates. Helps to cope with physical discomfort during pregnancy. As well keeps the bones of the spine low in a correct posture, like the pelvis, which during the nine months suffers change in terms of widening.
- SpheroidismIt is the work with balls of different size that helps Exercise the body during the period of pregnancy. The benefits of this practice are an increase in respiratory capacity, a feeling of relaxation, greater joint mobility and general harmony throughout the body. Likewise, it is recommended in the prevention and treatment of tense and painful areas.