Perineal Trauma

Tear classification

notion image

Management

Management of 3rd and 4th degree tears

  • Repair in theatre
  • Antibiotics
  • Laxative
  • Physiotherapy
  • Postnatal followup

Prevention

  • An episiotomy is performed in the second stage, usually when the perineum is being stretched and it is deemed necessary to prevent severe tearing
  • A mediolateral episiotomy is usually recommended