MEDICAL PROCEDURES
Episiotomy
What is an episiotomy?
An episiotomy is an incision performed between the vagina and the rectum that is used to increase the opening of the vagina to assist in delivery of a baby.
How is an episiotomy done?
The usual cut (incision) for an episiotomy goes straight down and typically does not involve the muscles around the rectum or the rectum itself.
What are the advantages of an episiotomy?
An episiotomy can decrease the amount of pushing the mother must do during delivery. It can also decrease trauma to the vaginal tissues and expedite delivery of the baby when delivery is necessary quickly.
How is an episiotomy repaired?
The repair is straightforward and is fairly simple to perform. The incision is repaired by suturing (sewing) the wound together.
What are complications of an episiotomy?
Episiotomy can be associated with extensions or tears into the muscle of the rectum or even the rectum itself. Other complications include bleeding, infection, swelling and local pain.
It is important to note that if the baby needs to be delivered more urgently, then waiting for the mother to push it out without the assistance of an episiotomy may cause harm to the fetus. Also, there are some tears that occur when no incision is made that are very difficult to repair and cause greater blood loss than might otherwise occur.
What is the healing time for an episiotomy?
The typical healing time for an episiotomy is around 4 to 6 weeks depending on the size of the incision and the type of suture material used to close the wound.
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