How to do it yourself

Hygiene tips and creating a relaxing environment before starting

  • Firstly, you’ll want to thoroughly wash your hands and ensure your nails are short and smooth

  • Select a quiet, warm and private space. You may wish you use extra cushions to prop you up for support

Choosing an Oil for Perineal Massage

  • Using a small amount of oil can make perineal massage much more comfortable, helping your fingers to glide over tissues

  • You’ll want to use an oil that is unscented, gentle on sensitive skin, nourishing and moisturising and suitable for intimate use. You have a couple of options when it comes to choosing an oil to use.

    1 - You can choose between natural oils (I’ve done the research here for you with pro’s and con’s for each)

    Olive Oil
    Skin friendly, moisturising properties and natural components
    Some potential for irritation, heavier texture

    Coconut Oil
    Naturally moisturising and antimicrobial.
    Less convenient when as a massage oil as does not absorb quickly. May leave a lingering scent.

    Jojoba Oil
    Gentle, non-irritating and ideal for sensitive skin. Moisturising, non-greasy feel.
    Usually more expensive than other oils. Minimal noticeable scent

    Grapeseed Oil
    Lightweight, non-greasy and easily absorbed.
    Doesn't provide as much lasting moisture as heavier oils.

    Avocado Oil
    Rich in vitamins and deeply nourishing.
    Can feel heavier on the skin than lighter oils.

    2 - You can purchase a Perineal Massage Oil that is designed exactly for this. Here are a few products I would recommend

The best oil is ultimately the one that feels comfortable for you, doesn't cause irritation and encourages you to practise regularly.

Weleda Perineum Oil
Expert Midwife Peri Prep Oil
Mummy's Organic Perineal Oil
Weleda Perineum Oil

The Technique

  • Take a few slow breaths and allow your shoulders, jaw, bottom and pelvic floor to soften and relax

  • Take a few slow breaths and allow your shoulders, jaw, bottom and pelvic floor to soften.

  • Place one or both thumbs around 2–3cm inside the vagina.

  • Press gently downwards towards the anus and outwards to the sides. You are aiming for a stretching or tingling sensation, not pain.

  • Hold this gentle stretch for around 1–2 minutes while breathing slowly.

  • Then massage the lower part of the vaginal opening in a gentle U-shape movement, sweeping from one side, down towards the anus, and up to the other side.

  • Continue for around 2–3 minutes.

  • Keep focusing on softening and relaxing the perineum. Try not to clench against the sensation. Use your breathing to help you release.

  • Stop if it feels painful, if you feel sore afterwards, or if anything doesn’t feel right.