Type of Surgery

Information

Doctor Certified

Last updated: 02/17/2009

Risks

Several side effects of episiotomy have been reported, including infection (in 0.3% of cases), increased pain, increased bleeding, prolonged healing time, and increased discomfort once sexual intercourse is resumed. There is also the risk that the...

incision will be deeper or longer than is necessary to permit the birth of the infant. An incision that is too long or deep may extend into the rectum, causing more bleeding and an increased risk of infection. Additional tearing or tissue damage may occur beyond the episiotomy itself.



NEXT:
PREVIOUS:

Advertisement

Search

Other Information

An episiotomy (pronounced /ɛˌpiːziːˈɒtəmiː/) is a surgical incision through the perineum made to enlarge the vagina and assist childbirth. The incision can be midline or at an angle from the posterior end of the vulva, is performed under local anaesthetic (pudendal anesthesia) and is sutured closed after delivery. It is one of the most common medical procedures performed on women, and although its routine use in childbirth has steadily declined in recent decades, it is still widely practiced in Latin America and in Poland and India.


From http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Episiotomy

Other Information

an obstetrician/gynecologist is a physician specialist who provides medical and surgical care to women and has particular expertise in pregnancy, childbirth, and disorders of the reproductive system.


From: womenshealthchannel.com

Find a Qualified Specialist

Looking for a specialist?

Please enter your zip code.