Natural Birthing Company's Down Below Perineal Massage Oil is a safe and 100% natural oil formula that can be used during perineal massage to help increase elasticity 'down below'.
Perineal massage is recommended from 34 weeks of pregnancy to help prepare for labour; the massaging action helps to gently stretch skin and increase elasticity of perineal muscles to reduce the risk of tearing or episiotomy (needing a cut) during labour.
Blending Rosehip, Apricot, Calendula and Evening Primrose Oils, the relaxing formula helps to prepare your intimate area for child birth, and also doubles as a body massage oil; it moisturises skin and may reduce the appearance of stretch marks during and after pregnancy.
100% Vegan.
Ensure you wash your hands before you undertake perineal massage. Find a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed. Consider making perineal massage part of your routine following your shower/bath as the warmth of the water will help with the blood supply to the area and surrounding tissues. Adopt a comfortable position, semi-sitting, one foot up on the toilet, bath or stool, or squatting against a wall.
- Place 1-2 drops of “Down Below” massage oil onto your fingers and apply to the outside of the perineum.
- Place your clean thumbs about 2 inches (5cm) into your vagina.
- Using your thumbs press downwards in the direction of your anus so that you can feel the stretch of the muscles surrounding the vagina and the vaginal tissues. Once you have this downward pressure, use your thumbs to sweep from side to side in a rhythmic “U” shape/hammock movement. Whilst massaging the perineum from the outside with your other fingers. When massaging apply steady pressure towards the anus. This may tingle, but should not hurt! This will also help you to recognise the sensation when your baby is ready to be born.
- Apply more oil to the outside of the perineum if required.
- The perineum will possible feel tight when you first start, but in time you will begin to feel a change and remember this should not hurt!
- If your partner is performing the massage, just follow the same instructions, but ask them to use their index fingers using the same “U” shape/hammock motion. It is important that you tell your partner how much pressure to apply.
Do not undertake perineal massage if you are suffering from Herpes, Vaginal thrush or other known infections. Please contact your midwife or GP if you suspect any of these infections.
Cenothera Blennis (Evening Primrose Oil), Rosa Mosqueta (Rosehip Oil), Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot Oil), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower Seed Oil), Calendula Officinalis Flower (Calendula Oil).