perineal massage during pregnancy to prevent tearing

[lsmama]

With my DD, my DH and I began doing perineal massage a few times per week around 32 weeks with the hope that we could help stretch things out and prevent a major tear.  I delivered DD in the hospital with a great midwife.  She was 8.10 oz and had shoulder dystocia, yet I only needed 1 stitch.  Not sure if this was due to my perineum or the dexterity of my midwife.  Anyway. I'm 32 weeks with baby #2 and am gearing up to start doing the massage again, but I feel like I read something about perineal massage actually causing tearing (perhaps on another thread).  It sounded like they were talking about perineal massage during delivery, though.  I certainly don't want to do anything counterproductive!

What are your thoughts/experiences?

[starrlamia]

I've read conflicting studies, some say it helps, others say it helps only first time moms, others say it doesnt help at all.

[CBEmomma]

I did it with #2 starting at 36 weeks and he was born at 39 weeks. I had no tears. DH also held a cloth of almond oil on my perineum once his head started to come out.

[MaryMarg]

I'm wondering the same thing as delivery 3 approaches.  I found lots of good info when I searched the Birth Professionals subforum under "Birth and Beyond".  Just do a search for "perineal massage."  Best wishes...