Preparing and Caring for Your Body: Perineal Massage and Postpartum Recovery

Do you know a woman preparing for birth? 

Each year in the U.S., around 68% of births are vaginal deliveries (about 2.4 million) and 32% are C-sections. While these birth experiences are different, both involve significant changes to skin, muscles, and connective tissue, and both benefit from gentle, supportive care before and after delivery.

Before Birth: Perineal Massage

In the last 4–6 weeks of pregnancy, gentle perineal massage can help prepare the tissues between the vaginal opening and anus (the perineum) for stretching during birth.

• Why it matters: A 2013 Cochrane Review found that women who practiced perineal massage late in pregnancy were less likely to have significant tearing or need an episiotomy.
• How it’s done: With clean hands and a nourishing lubricant, massage the perineal area for a few minutes several times a week. This helps increase elasticity, improve blood flow, and reduce tension.
• What to use: A gentle, plant-based balm like Honor Everyday Balm can provide slip, hydrate delicate skin, and support suppleness.

After Birth: Postpartum Topical Care

• Vaginal Delivery: Once your provider confirms healing has begun, massaging the perineum with Honor Everyday Balm can help maintain moisture, comfort, and elasticity in the recovering tissues.
• C-Section: While there’s no perineal trauma, C-section recovery involves a surgical incision. After it has fully healed and your provider gives the all-clear, gentle application of Honor Everyday Balm can help hydrate and soften scar tissue, supporting flexibility and comfort.

Birth is both beautiful and physically demanding. Thoughtful preparation before delivery and consistent care afterward can support comfort, healing, and long-term pelvic health.