Episiotomy

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which doctor should I consult to know if I will require an episiotomy during delivery?

You should ask your obstetrician during your prenatal visit regarding an episiotomy. However, in many cases, the obstetrician will have to take a last-minute decision during the delivery to do the episiotomy.

2. How long does it take for the episiotomy stitches to heal completely?

The healing usually occurs within a month of the birth of your baby. The pain around the episiotomy may persist for 2-3 weeks after birth. Most dissolvable stitches start to break down within one to two weeks. However, it could take several months before your stitches disappear completely.

3. Is an episiotomy absolutely necessary?

No. The need for an episiotomy can be averted by doing perineal massage. In fact, episiotomies are performed only in about 20% of vaginal births. Perineal massage involves massaging your perineum (the area around your vagina) and should start around 34 weeks of pregnancy. Daily perineal massage increases the area's ability to stretch, leading to less need for an episiotomy and fewer natural tears.

4. What is a tear during childbirth?

A tear is a spontaneous rupture of the perineum (the area between the vagina and anus) when the baby is pushed out during childbirth.

5. Is it better to tear naturally than to have an episiotomy?

Yes. Research studies have shown that women with a spontaneous tear generally recover in less time and with fewer complications than those who have an episiotomy.