Why Women Often Ignore Perineal Health and How It Affects Recovery?

PhysioMatters
Dec 19, 2025
2 min read

After childbirth or gynaecological surgery, many women overlook their perineal health.

The perineum is broadly the area between the pubic bone and tail bone encompassing the muscles, connective tissue, and nerves: between your vagina and anus (perineal body), supporting your bladder, bowel, and sexual function.

Ignoring this area of your body can slow recovery, cause discomfort, and affect confidence.

Early attention and birth prep physiotherapy can make a significant difference.

Why Perineal Health Is Often Overlooked?

Despite it’s importance, perineal care is often neglected due to:

Cultural taboos and embarrassment: Many women feel awkward discussing intimate health.
Lack of awareness and education: Healthcare providers don’t always provide clear guidance on postnatal or post-surgical care.
“Normalising” pain: Some women believe leaking, soreness, or tightness is just part of recovery.
Prioritising baby’s needs over self-care: New mothers often put their own recovery on hold.

Understanding Perineal Health

What is the Perineum and Why It Matters

The perineum plays a key role in supporting pelvic organs, controlling continence, and enabling sexual function. Post-childbirth or surgery, your perineum may experience:

Tears or episiotomies
Swelling or bruising
Muscle weakness or nerve strain
Scar tissue formation

Attention to this area ensures faster healing, better function, and long-term comfort.

Common Issues Women May Face After Childbirth due to Perineal Neglect

Women may often experience:

Faecal or urinary incontinence
Pelvic organ prolapse
Pain or discomfort during sex
Scar tissue tightness
Reduced core stability

Neglecting care can exacerbate these problems and affect quality of life.

Consequences of Neglecting Perineal Health

Short-Term Issues

Pain, swelling, and discomfort
Increased risk of infections or delayed healing

Long-Term Issues

Pelvic floor weakness which may lead to incontinence or prolapse
Sexual health challenges and discomfort
Reduced core and overall physical stability

Emotional and Psychological Impact

Lower confidence
Anxiety about movement, intimacy, or bodily function
Feelings of frustration or isolation

How Perineal Health Affects Recovery?

Neglecting perineal care can impact:

Physical healing: Slower recovery and prolonged discomfort
Daily activities and exercise: Difficulty returning to normal mobility and strength
Mental wellbeing and confidence: Emotional stress due to ongoing symptoms

Breaking the Silence Around Perineal Care

Open conversations are essential. Here are a few ways to encourage dialogue with:

Healthcare professionals and support groups: Provide guidance, exercises, and reassurance.
Partners and family members: Offer practical support, understanding, and patience.

Practical Steps for Better Perineal Care

Simple daily care tips: Gentle hygiene, rest, and avoiding strain.
Physiotherapy and pelvic floor exercises: Strengthen muscles, improve control, and reduce long-term issues.
When to seek professional help: Persistent pain, leaking, prolapse, or emotional distress should be assessed by a physiotherapist or doctor.

Conclusion

Perineal care is essential for all women. Paying attention to this often-overlooked area empowers women to recover faster, reduce complications, and regain confidence. Early care, education, and physiotherapy make a lasting difference.

It is our role as Women's Health Physiotherapists to check and advise you of your perineal health before, during and after birth or at any stage of concern for you.

Book an appointment with Claire, Danielle or Xan.