What can I do to avoid an episiotomy?
An episiotomy is a small cut between the vagina and the back passage which is normally performed when a mother has an assisted birth through forceps or ventouse. There is no guarantee that you can avoid this procedure as the doctor may feel it is necessary depending on your labour. There are, however, things you can do such as exercises to strengthen the perinea. You can ask your midwife for recommended exercises.
FAQ:
- Giving Birth FAQ
- How do I know if I am in labour?
- What do I do if my waters break?
- What are the stages of labour?
- What positions are best for giving birth?
- What can I do to avoid an episiotomy?
- Is it safe to eat and drink in labour?
- What happens if I need a caesarean section?
- How does breathing help in labour?
Pregnancy Guide
- Pregnancy & Birth Guide
- Giving Birth Intro
- The Quick Guide to Giving Birth
- Inducing Labour
- Myths about Labour
- Antenatal Classes
- Childbirth Fears
- Timing Contractions
- Vaginal Birth after Caesarean (VBAC)
- Home Birth
- Possible complications in childbirth
- Signs of Labour
- Stages of Labour
- Natural Childbirth
- Water Birth
- Assisted Birth
- Birthing Positions
- Caesarean Section
- Episiotomy
- Giving Birth FAQ
Related Guides
- Pregnancy & Birth Guide
- Guide to Getting Pregnant
- Guide to Pregnancy
- Guide to Giving Birth
- Guide to Pregnancy Tests
- Mother, Baby & Beyond Guide
- Guide to Pain Relief in Labour
- Guide to pregnancy scans
- Pregnancy calendar guide
- Baby calendar guide
- Child development calendar guide
- Guide to miscarriage
- Guide to breastfeeding
- Guide to sleeping for mother & baby
- Guide to birth defects
- Guide to Post Natal depression