An episiotomy is a surgical incision along the perineal tissue to enlarge the outlet during delivery. Your practitioner may decide an episiotomy is necessary to prevent severe trauma to the vagina and perineum especially if instrumental assistance is needed (i.e. with forceps or vacuum) or to accelerate birth when there is evidence of fetal distress. Episiotomy’s are not routine procedures anymore and are generally not recommended as healing from a spontaneous tear heals quicker and is less risk to mother and baby.

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