I ripped with my first son also how bad did you rip? Healing truly was dreadful for myself I did a lot of the baths I'm sure what I tell you the nurses might of told you but keep the area clean every time you go to the bathroom i use the spray bottle every time I went to the bathroom let your stitches air out! Wear loose cloths, if the pain too much call your doctor they will prescribe you some meds! Hope you feel better