What Helps Stitches Feel Better During Healing?

September 29, 2025 •

5 min read

According to the Cleveland Clinic, proper wound care is essential for healthy healing and minimizing complications. Knowing what helps stitches feel better can significantly ease discomfort and promote a smoother, faster recovery process.

Quick Summary

Manage discomfort by following your doctor's instructions, keeping the wound clean and dry, using over-the-counter pain relievers, and applying antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly to promote a moist healing environment and minimize itching.

Key Points

Follow Doctor's Orders: Adhere strictly to the specific aftercare instructions provided by your healthcare provider for the best healing outcomes.
Keep it Clean and Dry: Prevent infection by gently cleaning the wound with mild soap and water after the initial 24-48 hour dry period and patting it dry completely.
Manage Pain with OTC Meds: Use approved over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen to control mild to moderate pain and discomfort.
Combat Itch Safely: Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the wound area and use a cold compress to relieve itching without scratching.
Elevate to Reduce Swelling: Elevate the stitched area above your heart to minimize swelling and throbbing pain, especially in the first few days.
Monitor for Infection: Be aware of signs like increased redness, pus, or fever, and contact your doctor immediately if they appear.
Support Healing Internally: Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated to give your body the nutrients it needs to repair tissue effectively.

Managing Pain and Discomfort in the Early Stages

Experiencing some pain or soreness around the incision site is a normal part of the healing process. Fortunately, there are several ways to manage this discomfort, especially in the first 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions, and following them is the most crucial step.

Elevation and Rest

One of the most effective methods for reducing swelling and throbbing pain is to elevate the injured area. If your stitches are on a limb, prop it up on pillows so it is above the level of your heart. This uses gravity to help reduce fluid buildup and inflammation. Limiting activity and resting is also critical during this initial period. Avoid any strenuous activity or movement that could put tension on the stitches and potentially reopen the wound.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

For mild to moderate pain, over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication can be a great help. Options like acetaminophen (Tylenol) are often recommended, as they can help with pain without increasing the risk of bleeding. Your doctor may advise against nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) in the very beginning, as they can potentially thin the blood, though this depends on the specific wound and your health history. Always check with your healthcare provider before taking any medication.

The Critical Role of Keeping the Wound Clean and Dry

Preventing infection is key to minimizing pain and ensuring the stitches heal correctly. The absolute number one rule is to follow your doctor’s precise instructions for wound care. This typically involves keeping the wound clean and dry, particularly in the first day or two.

The Cleaning Process

After the initial dry period, your doctor will advise when and how to gently clean the area. This usually involves washing the area around the stitches with mild soap and clean water. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing the stitches directly. Instead, let soapy water run over the area and then pat it completely dry with a clean towel or gauze. MedlinePlus advises against using harsh chemicals like hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as they can damage the healing tissue.

Bathing vs. Showering

For the first week or so, showering is usually preferred over bathing. Submerging the stitches in a bathtub, pool, or lake should be avoided until the wound has fully healed, as it increases the risk of infection. If you do shower, try to keep the direct stream of water from hitting the wound forcefully and cover it with a waterproof bandage if necessary.

Managing Itching and Skin Irritation

As the wound heals, it is common to experience itching. This is a sign of new skin growing and is generally a positive indicator, but it can be frustrating. The most important thing is to avoid scratching or picking at the stitches or the scab. This can introduce bacteria, lead to infection, and increase scarring.

To manage the itch, your doctor may suggest a few methods:

Moisture: Applying a thin layer of a non-antibiotic ointment like petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or Aquaphor can keep the wound moist and reduce irritation. This is especially helpful after cleaning the wound and patting it dry.
Cold Compress: A cold compress wrapped in a towel can help soothe the area. Avoid placing ice directly on the skin.
OTC Medications: For persistent itching, an over-the-counter antihistamine may help, but always consult with your healthcare provider first.

Scar Minimization Techniques

After your stitches are removed, you can take steps to minimize the appearance of a scar. Sun protection is crucial, as UV rays can cause permanent discoloration. Cover the area with clothing or use a mineral-based sunscreen with a high SPF (once the wound is fully closed and your doctor approves). Gentle massage, once cleared by your doctor, can also help flatten and soften the scar tissue over time.

When to Contact Your Doctor

While some discomfort is normal, certain signs may indicate a complication, such as an infection. You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:

Increased pain, swelling, or redness around the wound.
Red streaks radiating from the stitches.
Pus or yellow fluid draining from the wound.
A fever or chills.
The wound breaks open or the stitches break.

Comparison Table: Aftercare Products for Stitches


Product	Purpose	Best Used For	Notes
Petroleum Jelly	Moisturizing, protecting	Keeping a moist healing environment, reducing itching	Can be applied after initial healing phase; check with doctor
OTC Pain Relievers	Pain management	Reducing mild to moderate pain and throbbing	Acetaminophen is often preferred; consult with your doctor
Ice Pack	Reducing swelling, pain	Acute pain and swelling in the first 24-48 hours	Always wrap in a towel; don't apply directly to skin
Silicone Gels/Sheets	Scar reduction	After stitches are removed	Requires consistent use for several months for best results
Mild Soap	Cleaning	Gentle cleansing around the wound after the initial dry period	Avoid harsh antibacterial soaps or chemicals

Promoting Healing with a Healthy Lifestyle

Your body's ability to heal is directly linked to your overall health. To help your stitches feel better, it's important to support your body's natural healing processes. This means eating a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and staying well-hydrated. Proper nutrition provides the building blocks your body needs to repair tissue and fight off infection. Getting adequate rest also allows your body to dedicate its energy to healing. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption is also recommended, as they can impair the healing process.

Conclusion: The Path to Comfort

Healing from a wound with stitches is a process that requires patience and diligent care. By prioritizing your doctor's instructions, maintaining a clean and dry wound environment, managing discomfort with safe pain relievers and elevation, and resisting the urge to scratch, you can significantly help your stitches feel better. Staying vigilant for any signs of infection and supporting your body with proper rest and nutrition will set you on the best path to a full recovery with minimal scarring. For more detailed instructions on specific wound types, always refer to a trusted medical resource like MedlinePlus: How to Care for Stitches.

Frequently Asked Questions

You should only take pain medication recommended by your doctor. In the early stages, NSAIDs like ibuprofen can sometimes be discouraged because they may increase bleeding risk. Acetaminophen is often a safer initial choice, but always confirm with your healthcare provider.

To relieve the itch, you can apply a thin layer of a non-antibiotic ointment like petroleum jelly to the wound area, or use a cool compress wrapped in a towel. Avoid scratching at all costs, as it can cause infection and damage the healing tissue.

Your doctor will provide a specific timeline, but typically you can shower after the initial 24-48 hours. Avoid submerging the wound in baths, pools, or hot tubs until it is completely healed. Gently pat the area dry immediately after showering.

Use mild soap and clean water to wash around the wound. Let the water run over the area and pat it dry with a clean towel. Do not use harsh antibacterial soaps, alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide unless specifically instructed by your doctor.

Some initial redness and swelling are normal, but it should gradually improve. If the redness or swelling increases, or is accompanied by pus, warmth, or fever, you should contact your doctor immediately as it could be a sign of infection.

Your doctor may recommend applying a thin layer of a simple ointment like petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or Aquaphor after cleaning and drying the wound. Some may recommend a bacitracin-based antibiotic ointment. Always follow your doctor’s specific advice.

Preventing infection and protecting the healing skin from the sun are key steps. After your stitches are removed, you can use silicone gel or sheets and gently massage the area, as directed by your doctor, to help flatten and soften the scar tissue.