Many women receive stitches after childbirth, often following perineal tears or an episiotomy during vaginal delivery. Stitches help close the wound, promote healing, and reduce infection risk. Most stitches are dissolvable, designed to break down and be absorbed by the body over time, eliminating the need for removal.
Appearance of Dissolving Stitches
Dissolvable stitches gradually break down as the body heals. Initially, they appear as small, thin threads holding skin edges together. Their color varies, often clear, purple, blue, or black, depending on the material.
As healing progresses (typically 2-6 weeks), stitches loosen, shorten, or hang from the wound. This indicates the stitches are dissolving and the wound is closing. Small fragments or tiny knots might appear on toilet paper, in the shower, or on your sanitary pad. This is a natural part of the dissolution process.
Recognizing Normal and Concerning Signs
After childbirth, mild discomfort, slight swelling, and minimal discharge around the stitched area are common as it heals. These are normal parts of the body’s recovery. Pain often lessens after the first week, with most episiotomies or tears healing within 3 to 6 weeks.
However, certain signs indicate a potential complication or infection, requiring prompt medical attention. Concerning symptoms include increasing pain, new or worsening redness, warmth, or foul-smelling discharge. Other warning signs are pus from the wound, fever, chills, or stitches coming apart prematurely, leading to an open wound. If any of these symptoms develop, contact a healthcare provider immediately for assessment and treatment.
Caring for the Stitched Area
Proper care of the stitched area promotes healing and prevents infection. Maintaining good hygiene is primary; gently wash the area with warm water during showers or by pouring water over it after urination. After washing, pat the area gently with a clean towel or toilet paper, wiping front to back to avoid introducing bacteria. Changing sanitary pads every 2 to 4 hours keeps the area dry and clean.
Managing discomfort involves applying ice packs wrapped in a clean cloth for 10-minute intervals, or sitting in a warm sitz bath. Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen or paracetamol, alleviate pain and reduce swelling. Wearing loose-fitting clothing and cotton underwear enhances air circulation and comfort. Consuming a fiber-rich diet and staying hydrated prevents constipation, reducing straining during bowel movements and protecting healing stitches. Always follow specific medical advice from your healthcare provider.