Labial lacerations can occur from scratching the vaginal area too roughly, or from having sexual intercourse when the vaginal area is too dry. Fortunately there are some things that can be done to ease discomfort and speed healing.
Keep the Area Clean
Most important is to keep the vaginal area as clean as possible. After urinating, use a gentle baby wipe or an irrigation bottle to gently rinse the area with warm water.
Sitz Baths
Sitz baths can be purchased from the drug store. They are small basins that you sit on for about 15 minutes at a time and the "bath" portion contains warm water and salt that soothe the area. There are also sitz bath recipes containing herbs, but some herbs are not safe to use during pregnancy, so check with your health care provider before using herbal sitz baths.
Tucks Pads
Line the underwear with a pad and then line the pad with several round Tucks Pads. They contain witch hazel which is soothing to the area. Or soak witch hazel onto a cotton ball and gently swab the area several times a day.
Refrain from further trauma
Until the area is healed, refrain from vigorous contact in the vaginal area. Always pat the area dry, do not rub.
Prevention
Using a generous amount of water-based lubricant during intercourse and refrain from scratching when the area is itching. This can aid in preventing labial lacerations from occurring.
Tags: vaginal area, from scratching, refrain from, Tucks Pads, warm water, witch hazel