How Do You Push a Baby Out Without Tearing?

Tips for Decreasing Vaginal Tearing During Labor

• To decrease the severity of vaginal tearing, try labor positions that put less pressure on your perineum and vaginal floor.
• Hands-and-knees and forward-leaning positions can reduce perineal tears.
• Shaving is the preferred method adopted by doctors and midwives before delivery.

Pushing Without Tearing

• Pushing is an involuntary response and can be hard to resist when your body is pushing.
• If you feel the urge to push, it is likely time to do so.
• Proper breathing while pushing is crucial for your baby’s oxygen levels and pain management.

Understanding Vaginal Tearing During Birth

• Up to 9 in 10 first-time mothers who have a vaginal birth will experience some sort of tear, with most requiring stitches.
• Most tears occur between the vaginal opening and the anus, with second-degree tears being the most common.
• Third- or fourth-degree tears are less common, occurring in about 5% of cases.

Factors Affecting Vaginal Tearing

• Delivering a large baby or a baby in an awkward position can increase the likelihood of tearing.
• Relaxing during labor may decrease the chances of tearing from these causes.
• Using interventions can potentially increase the risk of tearing during delivery.