Recovery from both an episiotomy and perineal tearing is uncomfortable and can take weeks, although the recovery time and possible complications can vary by woman. The healing time is about the same for both although it can take a bit longer with an episiotomy vs tearing naturally. For most women, the pain lasts for about one week, after which is slowly subsides. With an episiotomy, some women find sex to be painful or very uncomfortable for months and the procedure can contribute to complications like fecal incontinence in rare cases. If you tear or have an episiotomy, you’ll also have to refrain from sex for at least 6 weeks for proper healing. Try using a squirt bottle when you urinate to relieve burning and use ice packs for the first few days.