Will Perineum Massage Help with Tearing During Labor?

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!

Glass pipette dripping oil in front of a pink background. — Getty Images

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.