An episiotomy is an incision made in the tissue between the vagina and anus (perineum) during childbirth, just before the baby's head is delivered. An episiotomy may be done to help deliver the baby.
After delivery, an episiotomy incision is stitched closed. Episiotomies can be different depths. Smaller episiotomies heal faster and with less pain.
An episiotomy (say "eh-pih-zee-AH-tuh-mee") is a cut, or incision, made in the perineum during childbirth. The perineum is the tissue between the vagina and anus. The cut may be done to help deliver the baby or to help prevent the muscles and skin from tearing.
The cut is made just before the baby's head comes out of the birth canal. The cut is stitched up after the birth.
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An episiotomy is a cut, or incision, in your perineum. Your perineum is the tissue between the vagina and anus.
The cut is made before the baby's head is delivered during childbirth. It can help the doctor deliver the baby.
After your baby is born, the doctor closes the incision with stitches. These stitches don't need to be removed. They will dissolve in 1 to 2 weeks or longer. You may notice pieces of the stitches on your sanitary pad or on toilet paper. This is normal.
Recovery can be uncomfortable. The amount of pain you have depends on how deep and long the incision is. You may have pain when you sit, walk, urinate, or have bowel movements. If you get enough fiber and fluids and use stool softeners or laxatives, you may have less pain during bowel movements. Using ice packs or sitting in warm water (a sitz bath) several times a day may also help with pain.
Most women say they have less pain or discomfort after the first week. Most episiotomies heal in 3 weeks. But it may take longer.
There are times when an episiotomy is needed. For example, it may be needed if the baby's heart rate drops too much during pushing. Or it may be done if the baby's position is causing problems. The decision can't be made until delivery.
Routine episiotomy is not recommended. Experts say that it's usually not needed during most births.
In the past, an episiotomy was a very common part of childbirth. Most doctors no longer do these cuts routinely. If you need an episiotomy, your doctor or midwife will tell you. It's a good idea to talk about an episiotomy during a regular prenatal visit.
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