How to Treat the Burning Sensation After Birth

After childbirth it is not uncommon to feel burning in the vaginal area. This burning sensation is often caused by the pressure and strain of pushing during labor and can be moderate or severe. Before you resign yourself to dealing with discomfort there are a few things that you can do at home to treat the burning sensation after birth.

Things You'll Need

  • Squirt bottle
  • Portable sitz bath
  • salt

Instructions

    • 1

      Change sanitary napkins and underwear often. After birth many hospitals and practitioners will given women large, extra absorbent sanitary napkins. The extra absorbency combined with general discomfort make it tempting to avoid changing sanitary napkins for long periods of time. Failing to keep the vaginal area clean and dry after birth can increase the burning sensation that many women experience after birth.

    • 2

      Purchase a plastic squirt/squeeze bottle (similar to those used for applying hair highlights) to spray the vaginal area with warm water after using the bathroom. Doing this will help keep the vaginal area clean, which will reduce the burning sensation and help avoid infections. Squeezing warm water onto the vaginal area can also provide immediate relief if the burning sensation becomes overwhelming.

    • 3

      Take 15 to 20 minute sitz baths using a portable sitz bath. Sitz baths are often used to treat hemorrhoids but are also perfect for treating the burning sensation after birth. Portable sitz baths which can be placed on a toilet can be found at any pharmacy or drugstore. Some hospitals will even give new mothers a free sitz bath to take home if asked.

      When using a sitz bath install it on the toilet according to the instructions. Fill the sitz bath with enough warm water to cover your buttocks and vaginal area. In some cases (depending on your doctors recommendation) salt can be added to provide additional relief. Sit in the water for 15 to 20 minutes for relief several times a week as needed. Always pat the vaginal area after a sitz bath never rub it since vigorous rubbing can cause even more irritation and burning.

    • 4

      Take over the counter pain medication as needed. Mild pain killers such as Advil and Tylenol can provide relief especially at night if discomfort remains after taking a sitz bath or cleaning the area with warm water. If you are breast feeding or taking other medication consult your doctor before taking any over the counter pain medications.

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