Episiotomy
(Medical Procedures and Examination)
This topic will help you learn about an episiotomy and how to prepare for it.
What is an episiotomy?
An episiotomy, also known as a perineal incision, is: a simple surgical procedure performed during vaginal delivery, in which the doctor makes a small cut in the perineum (the area between the vagina and the anus) to widen the birth opening and make it easier for the baby to pass through.
When is an episiotomy performed?
1An episiotomy is generally performed in specific situations and is not a routine procedure in all vaginal births.
The most common cases where an episiotomy may be needed include:
2Preterm delivery:
When the perineum is tighter, making it difficult for the baby to pass naturally.
3Rapid delivery:
When the baby is coming out quickly and there is not enough time for the perineum to stretch naturally.
4Fetal distress:
When the baby is experiencing breathing difficulty or an irregular heartbeat, delivery needs to be expedited.
5Breech delivery:
6When the baby is delivered buttocks first, an episiotomy may be required to facilitate delivery.
Large baby:
When the baby’s size makes passage through the birth canal difficult.
Instrument-assisted delivery:
- When tools such as forceps or a vacuum extractor are used to assist in delivery, an incision may be necessary to widen the vaginal opening.
- What is the importance of prevention after the perineal cutting procedure?
- After an episiotomy, proper wound care is essential to ensure quick healing and prevent infection. This includes:
- Keeping the area clean and dry.
- Using prescribed pain relievers when needed.
Avoiding sitting or performing activities that put pressure on the perineal area until complete healing.
Using cold pads to reduce swelling and pain.
- Maintaining a healthy diet and drinking plenty of fluids.
An episiotomy is considered a safe procedure and is performed only when necessary to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby during delivery.
- How to prepare for an episiotomy?
1. Talk to your doctor:
- You can discuss the procedure with your doctor. In some cases, you may prefer to avoid it, and alternatives should be discussed.
2. Strengthen the perineal muscles:
- Performing pelvic and perineal exercises such as Kegel exercises can help improve flexibility and reduce the need for an episiotomy.
3. Relax during labor:
- Stress and anxiety can increase tension in the perineal muscles, which raises the likelihood of needing an episiotomy. Staying calm and relaxed during childbirth helps reduce this risk.
4. Perineal massage:
Your doctor or midwife can teach you how to massage the perineal area during the last weeks of pregnancy to improve flexibility and decrease the need for an incision.
5. Warm compresses applying warm compresses to the perineal area during the second stage of labor helps relieve pain and increase tissue flexibility.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ):
What are the risks of an episiotomy?
