03/09/2025
🌸 What is an episiotomy? 🌸
An episiotomy is a small cut made in the perineum — the area between the va**na and the a**s — during the final moments of labour to help your baby be born.
How common is it?
Episiotomies aren’t done routinely anymore — they’re only used when there’s a clear benefit for you or your baby. But sometimes, especially in first-time births, they are suggested:
👉Around 4 in 10 first-time mums having a va**nal birth may have one.
If forceps or a ventouse are needed, episiotomies are much more common — and in these cases, research shows they can help protect against more severe tears.
Why might your midwife or doctor suggest one?
There are a few situations where an episiotomy might really help:
✨ Assisted births — if forceps or a vacuum are needed, an episiotomy can make space and lower the risk of deep tears.
✨ Baby needs to be born quickly.
✨ Preventing more serious injuries — sometimes, based on your birth and baby’s position, an episiotomy may reduce the chance of a tear that affects the a**l muscles.
What does the research say?
Routine episiotomies are no longer recommended — they don’t benefit most women or babies.
When an episiotomy is needed, how it’s done matters. Cuts made at the right angle are linked to lower risks of severe tears.
Warm compresses on the perineum during birthing phase can also reduce the risk of bigger tears — you can ask your midwife about this ahead of time.
Tips for feeling prepared
💛 Talk to your midwife about your birth preferences, including how you feel about episiotomy.
💛 Ask about perineal support — things like warm compresses or hands-on guidance during birth.
💛 Remember: if an episiotomy is suggested, it’s usually because there’s a clear, immediate benefit for you or your baby.
Episiotomies can sound scary, but remember — they’re not routine, they’re not automatic, and the decision is always made with your safety and your baby’s wellbeing in mind. Knowing why they’re sometimes used can help you feel more confident and informed when discussing your birth plan.
You deserve a birth where you feel supported, respected, and empowered. 💫