What is an episiotomy and why it is used?

1 Answer
Suren Abreu
May 31, 2017

An incision of the perineum and the posterior vaginal wall to enable a delivery.

Explanation:

An episiotomy is a surgical cut or incision of the perineum, the area between the vagina and the anus.

This is usually done in case of difficult deliveries where enlarging the opening can quicken the delivery. It is recommended if it is felt that the delivery might cause tearing of vaginal tissues.

The incision is done just before delivery under local anaesthesia and is sutured immediately after.

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