Hi friends! The postpartum period can be a whirlwind of feelings and emotions. Being scared can certainly be one of them. There are many things you may be worried about, but one of the most common is going to the bathroom! Thinking about going to the bathroom, especially pooping, after delivery can be overwhelming. You finally get it out and everything is good, right? You go to wipe to clean yourself, ouch!
So, what’s the best way to wipe postpartum? There isn’t one “right” way to wipe, but some ways may definitely feel better than others. This is especially true if you had a vaginal delivery.
If you had an episiotomy, perineal tearing, or any other birth complications be sure to follow the instructions given to you by your provider.
One of the best ways to wipe if using a bottle filled with warm water. There are many different products out on the market. Try searching “peri bottle” to find one that works for you.
If you have to use toilet paper, pat yourself with the toilet paper to clean instead of wiping. Using the patting method is more gentle and therefore can be less painful than the pressure of wiping.
Here are some other postpartum tips to help with going to the bathroom:
Stay hydrated! Hydration is important for both your health and your milk production. Dehydration is one of the most common causes of constipation. With constipation, we often strain to poop which can make your recovering pelvic floor hurt!
Eat fruits and veggies (or other fruits that are high in fiber)! Fiber is another well to help prevent constipation. It helps keep our digestive system running smoothly so that our poop isn’t hard to pass.
If you are dealing with constipation, use a squatty potty! You can learn more about how a squatty potty makes pooping easier here.
When you are sitting on the toilet, allow the pelvic floor muscles to drop and lengthen to let out pee or poop. If you aren't sure how, a pelvic floor therapist can help you learn to use these muscles properly. Ask you doctor for a referral or find one near you at www.mypfm/com/find-a-pt
To learn more about the postpartum period, check out these great resources:
Watch our YouTube playlist on Postpartum and Your Pelvic Floor
Watch Netflix for Your Pelvic Floor at Pelvic Flicks
Learn more about your pelvic floor on our Instagram
Visit our Amazon store for our favorite pelvic health products
Sign up for our email newsletter
For providers, check out our online courses to help your clients. Consider joining our Ambassador Program and most of our courses are included with your membership!
Prep H: Hemorrhoids in Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period with Lacey Forsyth, BA (Hons), MA, MPT
The Impact of Delivery on the Pelvic Floor with Dr. Sarah Boyles, MD, MPH, FACOG, FPMRS
The Role of PT for the 4th Trimester & Beyond with Marcy Crouch, PT, DPT, WCS
Written by Emily Reul, PT, DPT