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I’m giving birth in January. Is there data on the helpfulness of extra-virgin olive oil perineum massage? Is it a good idea?
—Expecting
Perineum massage — that’s the practice of stretching out the perineum prior to birth — does seem to decrease the risk of tearing during birth. If you’re planning a vaginal delivery, this is a good idea!
You do not need to use an expensive olive oil, though. K-Y Jelly works fine, or sunflower oil, or even no oil. You do want to avoid baby oil or other mineral-based products. If you use olive oil, you can probably downgrade to the regular type — no need for the fancy Italian gift oils for this purpose.
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