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Episiotomy
An episiotomy is a small, controlled cut made during childbirth to enlarge the vaginal opening and help the baby be born.
Quick answer
Episiotomy: what it is, why it's done and what happens
An episiotomy is a cut made in the perineum — the area between the vagina and back passage — during the pushing stage of labour, to make more room for the baby and reduce the risk of a severe tear.
- Why it is done: It is used when the baby needs to be born quickly, during an assisted (forceps or ventouse) delivery, or when a serious tear seems likely, to help the birth and protect the tissues.
- What happens: With the area numbed by local anaesthetic or an existing epidural, a single cut is made during a contraction, and the baby is then born.
What it is
An episiotomy is a cut made in the perineum — the area between the vagina and back passage — during the pushing stage of labour, to make more room for the baby and reduce the risk of a severe tear.
Why it is done
It is used when the baby needs to be born quickly, during an assisted (forceps or ventouse) delivery, or when a serious tear seems likely, to help the birth and protect the tissues.
What happens
With the area numbed by local anaesthetic or an existing epidural, a single cut is made during a contraction, and the baby is then born. The cut is stitched afterwards with dissolvable stitches.
Recovery
The area is usually sore for a couple of weeks. Pain relief, keeping the area clean, cool packs and pelvic floor exercises help. The stitches dissolve as the wound heals.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include pain, infection, bleeding and, occasionally, the cut extending into a deeper tear. Episiotomies are not done routinely, only when there is a clear reason.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Episiotomy: frequently asked questions
Is an episiotomy done in every birth?
No. It is only done when there is a specific reason, such as an assisted delivery or concern about a serious tear. Many births happen without one.
How long do episiotomy stitches take to heal?
The stitches are dissolvable and the area usually heals over a couple of weeks. Keeping it clean, using pain relief and gentle pelvic floor exercises aid recovery.
Related
Other other
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists / relevant professional body
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