Bedikot after tearing with childbirth
3 September, 2014
Question:I'm six and a half weeks postpartum, and no longer spotting. I had a 3rd degree perineum tear, as well as internal tearing, and I'm still feeling discomfort⁄soreness in those areas. How does one do bedikot for the clean days in a situation like this? Thanks in advance.
Answer:Mazal tov on the brith of your baby!
We are sorry to hear of your tearing and the ensuing discomfort. In this case, you should perform the absolute minimum number of bedikot: a hefsek taharah (omitting the moch dachuk) and one bedikah each on days one and seven of the clean days.
Perform the bedikot lying down, perhaps using a hand mirror to help ensure that you not aggravate your sore areas. The bedikah should be performed very gently and only to a depth that is comfortable to you. (To about the first knuckle is the bare minimum.)
It is permissible to immerse in the mikveh even if relations will not be immediate.
Refuah sheleimah! Please write back with any further questions.
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