Behind the Birth Story: How Many Stitches Are Needed For a Normal Delivery and Why

Childbirth is a powerful and transformative experience, but it can also raise many questions, especially for first-time mothers. One common concern after a normal vaginal delivery is stitches. Many women wonder: How many stitches are needed after a normal delivery? The answer is not the same for everyone. It depends on several factors, including the type and extent of perineal tearing, whether an episiotomy was performed, and how the body heals.

This article explains why stitches may be needed after a normal delivery, how many stitches are needed, the types of tears, the healing process, and practical tips for recovery.

Why Are Stitches Needed After a Normal Delivery?

During a vaginal delivery, the baby passes through the birth canal, stretching the perineum. The perineum is the area between the vaginal opening and the anus. While this tissue is designed to stretch, it may tear during childbirth. In some cases, doctors or midwives may also perform an episiotomy, a small surgical cut to enlarge the vaginal opening.

Stitches are used to:

• Repair tears or episiotomy cuts
• Control bleeding
• Help tissues heal properly
• Reduce the risk of infection

The goal is to restore the perineal muscles and skin as naturally as possible.

How Many Stitches Are Usually Required?

There is no fixed number of stitches for a normal delivery. The number can range from a few stitches to more than twenty, depending on the severity of the tear or cut.

Here is a general idea:

• Minor tears may need 2 to 5 stitches
• Moderate tears may require 6 to 15 stitches
• Severe tears can need 15 to 30 or more stitches

Doctors usually use dissolvable stitches, which do not need to be removed and dissolve on their own within a few weeks.

Types of Perineal Tears and Stitches Required

Perineal tears are classified into four degrees. Understanding these helps explain why stitch numbers vary.

First-Degree Tear

This is the mildest form of tearing. It affects only the skin around the vaginal opening.

• Usually small and superficial
• May need few or no stitches
• Healing is quick, often within 1 to 2 weeks

Some first-degree tears heal naturally without stitches.

Second-Degree Tear

This is the most common type of tear during normal delivery. It involves both the skin and the perineal muscles.

• Requires stitches for proper healing
• Typically needs 6 to 15 stitches
• Healing time is around 3 to 6 weeks

Most women who receive stitches after normal delivery fall into this category.

Third-Degree Tear

This tear extends into the muscles surrounding the anus.

• Requires careful stitching, often in layers
• May need 15 to 30 stitches or more
• Healing can take 6 to 8 weeks or longer

These tears are less common and usually repaired by an experienced doctor.

Fourth-Degree Tear

This is the most severe type and extends into the anal lining.

• Requires advanced surgical repair
• Stitch count varies widely
• Longer recovery and follow-up care are needed

Fortunately, fourth-degree tears are rare in normal deliveries.

What About Episiotomy Stitches?

An episiotomy is not routinely performed in modern obstetric practice, but it may be done in specific situations, such as fetal distress or assisted delivery.

• Episiotomy stitches usually range from 10 to 20 stitches
• Healing time is similar to second-degree tears
• Proper care reduces pain and infection risk

Does the Number of Stitches Affect Pain?

Pain after delivery is not always related to the number of stitches. Some women with fewer stitches may experience more discomfort, while others with more stitches may heal smoothly.

Pain levels depend on:

• Location of the tear
• Swelling and inflammation
• Individual pain tolerance
• Quality of stitching and aftercare

Doctors often prescribe pain relief medications and recommend home remedies to ease discomfort.

How Long Do Stitches Take to Heal?

Most stitches used after normal delivery are absorbable.

• Begin dissolving within 1 to 2 weeks
• Fully absorbed by 4 to 6 weeks
• Deeper stitches may take longer

During healing, mild itching or tightness is normal, but severe pain or foul-smelling discharge should be reported to a healthcare provider.

Tips to Heal Faster After Stitches

Proper care can significantly improve comfort and healing.

• Keep the area clean and dry
• Use warm water to gently rinse after urination
• Apply ice packs to reduce swelling in the first 24 hours
• Sit on a soft cushion or donut pillow
• Avoid constipation by eating fiber-rich foods and drinking plenty of water
• Do pelvic floor exercises as advised by your doctor

Rest is essential. Avoid heavy lifting and excessive strain during recovery.

When Should You Contact a Doctor?

Seek medical advice if you notice:

• Increasing pain instead of improvement
• Signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or pus
• Fever or chills
• Difficulty controlling bowel movements
• Stitches opening or bleeding

Early treatment prevents complications and supports better healing.

Emotional Impact of Stitches After Delivery

Beyond physical recovery, stitches can affect emotional well-being. Some women feel anxious about pain, intimacy, or body changes. These feelings are normal and temporary.

Open communication with your partner and healthcare provider can help. Remember, your body has gone through a major event, and healing takes time.

Also Read: 5 Most Powerful Postpartum Changes in Body, Skin, and Beyond.

Final Thoughts

There is no standard answer to how many stitches are needed after a normal delivery. It can be as few as a couple or more than twenty, depending on the type of tear or whether an episiotomy was performed. What matters most is not the number of stitches, but proper repair, good aftercare, and allowing your body the time it needs to heal.

Every birth is unique, and so is every recovery. With the right support, patience, and care, most women heal well and regain comfort and confidence in the weeks following childbirth.

Also Read: How To Care for Your Episiotomy Stitches