Episiotomy – Procedure, Healing and Aftercare
An episiotomy is a surgical incision made in the perineum during childbirth to widen the birth canal and help prevent severe tearing of the tissue.
Wissenswertes über "Episiotomy"
An episiotomy is a surgical incision made in the perineum during childbirth to widen the birth canal and help prevent severe tearing of the tissue.
What is an Episiotomy?
An episiotomy is a deliberate surgical cut made in the perineum – the area of tissue between the vaginal opening and the anus – during childbirth. It is performed to enlarge the birth canal and to reduce the risk of uncontrolled, irregular tearing of the perineal tissue. The procedure is carried out by a midwife or an obstetrician.
When is an Episiotomy Performed?
Episiotomy is no longer performed routinely. According to current clinical guidelines, it is only justified in specific medical situations. Common indications include:
- Imminent severe perineal tear: When the tissue is about to tear uncontrollably.
- Fetal distress: When the baby needs to be delivered quickly, for example due to lack of oxygen.
- Instrumental delivery: When forceps or a vacuum extractor (ventouse) is used to assist delivery.
- Shoulder dystocia: When the baby shoulders become stuck during delivery.
How is the Procedure Performed?
An episiotomy is usually performed under local anaesthesia, or may be carried out when an epidural anaesthesia is already in place. The incision is most often made at an angle (mediolateral), and less frequently straight downward (median). After delivery, the wound is closed with dissolvable sutures that do not need to be removed.
Healing and Aftercare
Recovery after an episiotomy typically takes two to six weeks. During this time, pain, swelling, and a feeling of tightness are common. The following measures support healing:
- Regular wound checks by a midwife or healthcare provider
- Good perineal hygiene using lukewarm water
- Sitz baths with soothing additives (e.g., chamomile)
- Cushioned seating and supportive sitting positions
- Pain relief medication as recommended by a healthcare provider
Possible Complications
As with any surgical procedure, complications can occur after an episiotomy:
- Wound infection
- Delayed wound healing
- Painful intercourse (dyspareunia) in the weeks following birth
- Scar tissue formation causing discomfort
- In rare cases: extension of the incision into a more severe perineal tear
Alternatives to Episiotomy
Modern obstetric care focuses on preserving the perineum through targeted techniques:
- Perineal support by the midwife during the pushing stage
- Warm compresses applied to the perineum to relax tissue
- Perineal massage during pregnancy to prepare the tissue
- Upright birth positions to reduce pressure on the perineum
References
- World Health Organization (WHO) – WHO Recommendations: Intrapartum Care for a Positive Childbirth Experience (2018)
- Hartmann K et al. – Outcomes of Routine Episiotomy. JAMA. 2005;293(17):2141-2148.
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) – The Management of Third- and Fourth-Degree Perineal Tears (Green-top Guideline No. 29, 2015)
Verwandte Produkte
For Healthy Oral Flora & Dental Care
Formulated lozenges with Dentalac®, probiotic lactic acid bacteria, and Lactoferrin CLN®
For your universal protection
As one of the most valuable proteins in the body, lactoferrin is a natural component of the immune system.
For your iron balance
Specially formulated for your iron balance with plant-based curry leaf iron, Lactoferrin CLN®, and natural Vitamin C from rose hips.
Best-selling products
For your universal protection
As one of the most valuable proteins in the body, lactoferrin is a natural component of the immune system.
For your iron balance
Specially formulated for your iron balance with plant-based curry leaf iron, Lactoferrin CLN®, and natural Vitamin C from rose hips.
For Healthy Oral Flora & Dental Care
Formulated lozenges with Dentalac®, probiotic lactic acid bacteria, and Lactoferrin CLN®The latest entries
3 Posts in this encyclopedia categoryFebrile Abortion
Retinopathy of Prematurity
Freeze-Etching Technique
Most read entries
3 Posts in this encyclopedia categoryMagnesiumcarbonat
Cologne list
Calorie content
Related search terms: Episiotomy + Perineotomy