Musings from a soon to be mom # 3 on the topic:

I've used the inflatable ring with moms before for upright positioning
cradle and football, though not much.  Immediately postpartum, I also
emphasize lying down and nursing for two reasons-sleep and reducing
perineal pressure.  I've also heard some concerns about the pressure from
the rings reducing perineal circulation and actually making the pain and
swelling worse.

In my opinion, all mothers need 24 hours of ice to reduce perineal
swelling.  600mg Ibuprofen every 6 hours is a wonderful analgesia if she is
having a lot of pain.  They also need sitz baths 3 or 4 times a day from 24
hours postpartum to several days postpartum (at least until after their
milk comes in).  And it's ok to nurse the baby while you are sitting on the
sitz bath-just be sure to wash your hands before and after (though I found
the sitz bath a welcome respite of privacy for at least a few minutes).   I
haven't tried any herbals in the sitz bath yet though witch hazel was
pretty soothing and we use this in the hospital as a compress.  Have also
read that Yarrow and comfrey root are great additions as well.

Hoping for an intact perineum this time....

Maurenne Griese, RNC, BSN, CCE, CBE
Birth and Breastfeeding Resources  http://www.childbirth.org/bbfr
Manhattan, KS  USA
[log in to unmask]