After childbirth, many women receive stitches to repair tears or episiotomies, which are incisions made to enlarge the vaginal opening. These stitches are commonly made from materials designed to dissolve naturally within the body, aiding postpartum recovery without requiring removal.
The Dissolution Timeline
The time for postpartum stitches to dissolve varies, from a few days to several weeks, depending on the suture material. Stitches for perineal tears or episiotomies often dissolve within one to two weeks, with some remnants possibly remaining for up to six weeks. You might notice small pieces of stitch material on sanitary pads or toilet paper as they break down.
Different types of dissolvable sutures have varying absorption rates. Vicryl sutures lose strength within 7-14 days and absorb completely within 56 to 70 days, with Vicryl Rapide dissolving by 14 days. Chromic catgut sutures retain strength for about 10-14 days and dissolve within 21 days, though complete absorption can take up to 90-120 days. Polydioxanone (PDS) sutures provide extended support, retaining strength for several weeks and fully absorbing between 91 and 210 days. The material’s thickness and individual healing rate also influence how quickly the stitches dissolve.
Supporting the Healing Process
Proper care of the stitched area promotes healing and stitch dissolution. Maintaining hygiene is key; gently cleaning the area with warm water after using the toilet and patting it dry helps prevent infection. Frequent sanitary pad changes also reduce infection risk.
Pain management can include over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Applying ice packs wrapped in a thin cloth to the sore area for 10 to 20 minutes helps reduce swelling and discomfort. Sitz baths, involving sitting in shallow warm water, soothe the area, increase blood flow, and aid healing. Consult a healthcare provider regarding sitz bath additives, as excessive soaking might affect stitch integrity. Avoiding strenuous activities, consuming a fiber-rich diet, and staying hydrated support overall healing and prevent constipation, which can strain the perineum.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Be aware of signs indicating a complication that require medical consultation. Increased pain, redness, or swelling around the stitches, especially with pus or an unusual odor, signal an infection. Fever or chills are also concerning symptoms.
If stitches do not dissolve within the expected timeframe or appear to be coming apart prematurely, seek medical advice. Excessive bleeding, unusual discharge, or new and worsening pain also warrant prompt evaluation by a healthcare provider.