Yep, I had a 2nd degree perineal tear and a vaginal wall tear. Expect to feel bruised and sore for a few more weeks. I think it was about 4 weeks until the swelling completely went away and my lochia finished shortly after that. By my 6 week checkup, everything was all good.

My stitches were around my vaginal wall just inside (so the midwife explained afterwards). It still feels a bit squishy in there and my pelvic floor feels quite weak, even though the physio in hospital checked it and said it was quite good considering.

Have plenty of warm salt baths if you can. It was the best advice I got from other lovely BB ladies It really helped. Plus during the day, stick your pads in the freezer so they are nice and cold which will help with the swelling.

I remember thinking at the time that this was never going to get better, but it does!