3rd Degree Tear Stitches
If you tear during birth, the injury will need to be sutured together with dissolvable stitches.
How many stitches?
There are different types of tear. First and second degree tears are the most minor and may require just a couple of stitches. The repair can be performed by a midwife. Third and fourth degree tear are more severe and will require internal and external stitches. The repair must be carried out by a surgeon in theatre.
Will the stitches dissolve?
The stitches are dissolvable. They should dissolve on their own within five to six weeks. Some can fall out onto your sanitary pad. Very rarely a stitch will remain and will have to be removed by a medical practitioner. However, this is unusual.
Why are my stitches itchy?
The stitches can be sore and itchy in the weeks following the birth. The itching can be quite distracting but it is all part of the healing process. It is important not to itch them as it can introduce infection to the area.
Can my stitches become infected?
The stitches can become infected. In fact, they are particularly vulnerable to infection due to their proximity to the back passage, as bacteria can spread during the passing of faeces. You can help to prevent infection through good hygiene and drinking plenty of fluids.
If they do become infected, they will become very painful and smelly. There may also be some oozing fluid from the wound. If you develop such symptoms, you need to go straight to the doctors to get a course of antibiotics. If there is a delay in treatment, the stitches could rupture.
Will my stitches burst when going to the toilet?
It may feel like the stitches will burst when you pass a stool. This will not happen, but you can press a clean sanitary towel against the perineum when you go to the toilet for more support. You should also be prescribed laxatives when you leave hospital to soften your stools. This will put less pressure on the stitches while they are healing.
The stitches may also sting when urinating. If so, you can pour warm water over your perineum while you urinate, as this will dilute the urine. Afterwards it is important to gently pat the area dry, moving from front to back.
Ongoing problems from 3rd degree tear stitches
If you have any concerns about your stitches, do not hesitate to speak to your midwife or doctor.
Unfortunately some women will experience ongoing problems from their stitches, but this is usually do medical mistakes that have been made. For instance, poor stitching or not prescribing antibiotics for an infection quickly enough.
If you have suffered ongoing problems because of medical error, please get in touch with us at Glynns Solicitors.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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