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Episiotomy
Episiotomy
What is Episiotomy?
1. Midline Episiotomy: In this type, the incision is made directly along the midline of the
perineum. It provides a straightforward, centrally located cut.
Once crowning occurs, the obstetrician will insert two fingers into the vagina to protect the
baby’s head from coming in contact with the surgical scissors. An incision will then be made
either straight down towards the anus (midline incision) or at an angle of ~45° to the vaginal
orifice (mediolateral incision). The perfect timing for the episiotomy is when the baby is about
to be delivered (within the next 3-4 contractions).
Incision: The healthcare provider makes a controlled cut in the perineum to facilitate the
baby's passage through the birth canal.
After the delivery of the baby and the placenta, the vagina and perineum are cleaned and
thoroughly examined for any extension of the episiotomy. The anal canal is also checked to
exclude anal sphincter injury. The episiotomy is then repaired by suturing the vaginal lining and
the underlying tissue. The sutures are dissolvable and are absorbed by the tissues usually within
a month. So, there is no need to visit the doctor to take out the stitches.
Repair: Following childbirth, the episiotomy incision is sutured with dissolvable stitches
to promote healing.