Is it normal for an episiotomy wound to still hurt after nine days?

May 10, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Is it normal for an episiotomy wound to still be painful after nine days? This needs to be assessed based on factors such as the degree and duration of pain. If the pain is mild and intermittent, without redness, swelling, or discharge, or only occurs with large physical movements, it is generally considered normal. However, if after nine days of recovery the wound still causes severe pain that lasts for a prolonged period, this is considered abnormal.

The episiotomy wound has been painful for nine days; whether this is normal usually depends on factors such as the severity and duration of the pain. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Normal

If the pain is mild and intermittent, with no signs of redness, swelling, or discharge, or if pain only occurs during large limb movements, it is generally considered normal. Due to the unique location of an episiotomy wound, healing takes longer compared to surface wounds. In the absence of infection, the pain typically subsides gradually.

2. Abnormal

If significant pain persists after nine days of recovery—such as difficulty walking or lifting the leg—and the pain lasts for a prolonged period, this is considered abnormal. It may indicate poor wound healing due to infection or re-tearing caused by excessive physical movement.

Following medical advice to keep the episiotomy area clean and dry, along with regular follow-up examinations, helps promote proper wound healing.