Make the right choices for your birth prep

Perineal massage is uncomfortable at first. That's not a warning to ignore it, it's useful information about what you're actually doing and why it gets easier. Here's what to expect, session by session.

Most guidance suggests starting perineal massage around week 34 to 35 of pregnancy, roughly four to six weeks before your due date, and practicing it a few times a week until birth.

A perineal massage wand, often called a peri wand, is a slim, handled tool designed to help you reach the perineum in late pregnancy, when a growing bump makes reaching by hand difficult. It extends the reach of your fingers so you can apply the same gentle, controlled pressure to the perineal area on your own, without help from a partner and without straining into an awkward position. In the US it is offered as a general wellness device rather than a medical device.

Week 37. Your pregnancy is now considered early term. Your baby weighs about 2.9kg and is essentially fully developed. Birth could happen any time in the next few weeks — and your perineal massage routine is paying off.

You have made it to week 34. Your baby is about the size of a cantaloupe, your belly is definitely in the way, and birth is roughly 6 weeks away. This is the week most healthcare professionals recommend starting perineal massage — and it is also a great time to start pulling together the rest of your birth preparation.

Week 38. You are full term. Your baby weighs about 3.1kg and could arrive any day. If you have been doing perineal massage since week 34, you have had 4+ weeks of consistent practice. 

Week 33. Your baby weighs about 1.9kg, and you are entering the home stretch. Birth is about 7 weeks away, and this is the perfect week to prepare for starting perineal massage next week.

Welcome to week 35. Your baby weighs about 2.4kg, and you are now roughly 5 weeks from your due date. If you started perineal massage last week, this week is about building consistency. If your have a normal pregnancy and your healthcare provider approves it, start. It is not too late.

Week 36. You are officially one month from your due date. Your baby weighs about 2.7kg, and if you have been doing perineal massage since week 34, you are now 2-3 weeks into your routine.

Learn how to choose the best perineal massage tool for birth preparation. Discover what features matter, when to start perineal massage, and why many women use Perimom during pregnancy.