​​​​​​The Cuts Of Life Episiotomies & C-Sections

Bringing a baby into the world is possibly one of the most dif cult, yet utterly amazing processes you will likely ever experience. Sometimes it comes with physical scars that will heal over time. LOREN STOW spoke to Sister Bronwyn Lendrum of Storks Nest at Netcare Waterfall Hospital about episiotomies and Caesarean-section cuts.

- Loren Stow

Sister Lendrum shares everything you need to know about these cuts that yield life, as well as all-important wound care in the days and weeks that follow.

EPISIOTOMY

What is an episiotomy?

This is an incision into the perineum, the area of skin between the vagina and the anus, which widens the vaginal opening through which a baby is delivered. It is performed in order to avoid trauma such as tearing to the perineum or the inner labia of the vagina.

When will an episiotomy be performed?

It is performed when or if the perineum shows signs of possibly tearing. It is referred to by nurses and doctors as ‘button holing’ as the area shows signs of splitting. An episiotomy will also be performed if bleeding is seen above where the baby’s head is pushing through the vaginal opening, as this could indicate tearing along the urethra (the outlet for urine) and the inner labia.

Are there different kinds of episiotomy cuts?

There are three possible ways in which the perineum is cut: sideways (also called medio-laterally) to either the left or the right, or straight down the middle (also called a midline). The latter is avoided as it might pose a risk of damage to the muscles in the anus.

How long are the stitches in for and when are they removed?

The stitches will be absorbable and should dissolve on their own within 7-10 days.

Is an episiotomy painful?