Scared to Pee or Poo After Birth? You’re Definitely Not Alone 💛
Let’s talk about something no one really warns you about postpartum: that first pee… or poo 😬
I can absolutely relate. After birth, when your perineum (that area between the vagina and anus) feels tender, raw, and sore, the idea of using the bathroom can be genuinely scary. This is especially common if you had a tear or an episiotomy during delivery — and if that’s you, please know: you’re not alone.
Perineal tears and episiotomy scars can take 6–8 weeks to heal (as long as there’s no infection). In the meantime, here are some gentle ways to make toileting a whole lot more comfortable:
⭐️ Stool softener
If recommended by your doctor or midwife, this can make bowel movements much easier and less stressful.
⭐️ Sitz baths
Warm water with Epsom salt, non-alcoholic witch hazel, and a drop of lavender or chamomile can be incredibly soothing. (You can also find ready-made herbal kits online.)
⭐️ Peri bottle
Fill it with warm water and spray while you pee — it helps reduce stinging and makes things feel much gentler.
⭐️ Deep breathing
Slow breaths in through your nose and relaxed sighs out through your mouth help your pelvic floor soften and relax, making it easier to pee or poo.
⭐️ Splinting (yes, it helps!)
After a C-section: gently press a pillow into your belly during bowel movements for support.
After a vaginal birth: use a few sheets of toilet paper and apply gentle pressure to the perineum with your fingers while passing stool. This helps control stretching — which is often what causes the pain.
Keep an eye out for signs that something might need medical attention. Check in with your care provider if you notice:
Increasing pain
New bleeding
Pus-like discharge
Feeling generally unwell
And on rare occasions, stitches can come undone. If you notice stitch material coming away or the wound reopening, definitely get it checked as soon as possible.
The postpartum period can be a lot. You’re caring for a newborn, running on very little sleep, and healing from birth — physically and emotionally. All of this matters. Please don’t hesitate to reach out for support, whether that’s physical, emotional, or both.
I truly wish I had asked for more help during this stage — and I encourage you to do the same 💛
Wishing you a gentle and speedy recovery. You’ve got this.
Mia Dang, PT, is a pelvic physiotherapist with extensive supplementary training in pelvic floor physiotherapy and perinatal care