Gynecological Surgery · OrduHow does an episiotomy differ from a birth tear?
The perineum lies between the vaginal opening and anus. Childbirth can cause superficial skin tears or deeper injuries involving muscle. An episiotomy is a deliberate incision for a particular obstetric reason and is not required for every birth.
The tissues involved determine the extent of repair. Third- and fourth-degree tears extending to the anal sphincter require different care and follow-up. Recording the degree in the birth report helps later clinicians understand the injury.
The birth team assesses the need for stitches, bleeding and tissue condition. Recovery after vaginal birth is not identical for everyone. Incision length or stitch count alone is not a reliable measure of future function.
Initial repair and assessment of wound breakdown
Initial repair brings injured tissues together with appropriate pain relief. Dissolvable stitches are commonly used, and the birth team should explain the material and aftercare. Deeper injuries require an appropriate surgical setting and expertise.
A wound that opens later cannot simply be assumed to have lost its stitches spontaneously. Infection or bleeding beneath the wound may contribute. New bleeding, increasing pain, pus or visible separation needs examination.
An open wound is not always stitched again immediately. Infection may need treatment first, and the timing and suitability of further repair are assessed individually. Do not pull or cut stitches or apply irritating products yourself.
Pain, discharge and bowel control symptoms
Some tenderness can occur early on, but increasing pain or pain that substantially limits daily life needs review. Fever, offensive discharge, redness and swelling raise concern about infection. Feeling significantly unwell should not wait for a scheduled appointment.
Difficulty controlling wind or stool, stool passing through the vagina or a wound that does not heal must be reported. These symptoms should not be dismissed as an unavoidable part of childbirth. Appropriate specialist and pelvic floor input may be needed.
Urinary leakage or pelvic pressure can also be discussed. Assessment of urinary incontinence may be relevant when these symptoms are present. Repeat surgery is not the only possible response to every pain or functional problem.
Wound care and returning to everyday activity
Follow the instructions about washing, changing pads and hand hygiene. Avoid perfumed products and creams that have not been recommended. Pain relief should be discussed with a healthcare professional, particularly when breastfeeding or taking other medicines.
Avoiding constipation and reducing straining can support recovery. Fluids, fibre, movement and medication when needed are considered individually. Restrictions on heavy lifting and intense exercise matter especially after a deeper tear.
The timing and technique of pelvic floor exercises can be explained for the individual injury. Increased pain or pressure during activity deserves review. Reaching a particular number of days after birth does not mean every tissue has healed equally.
Planning a postnatal review in Fatsa, Ordu
Bring the birth and repair report, medication details and any earlier wound assessments to review in Fatsa. Describe how pain changes with sitting, walking, toileting or feeding your baby. Privacy and companion preferences can be raised before examination.
Travel from another district of Ordu may require planning for infant care, transport and rest. A deeper injury or need for further repair may require referral to an appropriate healthcare setting. Fever, rapidly increasing pain or significant loss of function should receive prompt assessment rather than waiting to reach a particular clinic.
Sexual activity and planning a future birth
Resuming sex depends on wound healing, bleeding and feeling ready. Persistent pain, fear or dryness deserves separate assessment. Continuing despite pain is not a treatment strategy.
A previous episiotomy does not mean another incision is inevitable in a future birth. After a deeper tear, symptoms and current function guide discussion of future birth options. Additional support may be relevant for sexual pain and other sexual concerns.
Conclusion
Follow-up after episiotomy or a birth tear involves more than checking whether stitches have closed. Pain, wound healing and daily function need consideration together. Care in Ordu should reflect the depth of injury and the individual's recovery and support needs.
Clinic Address
The consultation practice is in Fatsa, Ordu. Use the contact details for appointment, location and follow-up information.
Frequently asked questions
Does every vaginal birth need an episiotomy?
No. The need is assessed during birth according to the circumstances of the mother and baby.
Is an open wound always stitched again immediately?
No. Infection and wound condition are assessed first, then the need and timing of repair are considered.
Should I mention difficulty controlling wind?
Yes. Changes in wind or stool control are important, particularly after deeper tears, and should be reported.
Will the stitches need removal?
Dissolvable stitches are commonly used. Confirm your own aftercare plan and do not pull stitches out yourself.
Will my next birth have to be by cesarean?
Not necessarily. Injury severity, ongoing symptoms and preferences guide discussion; one approach is not right for everyone.
About this article
Consultation and individual assessment
Op. Dr. Cennet Ay TokObstetrics & Gynecology Specialist · Fatsa, Ordu
Editorial details
- Content preparation
- Editorial information prepared using the medical sources listed below.
- Medical review
- The content update date does not indicate that a physician has medically reviewed this article.
Sources
Medical references used to prepare this article. Links open the original publications in a new tab.
- RCOG — Episiotomyrcog.org.uk
- RCOG — Perineal wound breakdownrcog.org.uk
- RCOG — Third- and fourth-degree tearsrcog.org.uk
- RCOG — Perineal tears during childbirthrcog.org.uk
- NHS — Episiotomy and perineal tearsnhs.uk
This article provides general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Diagnosis, treatment suitability and follow-up are determined individually after a clinical assessment.
