Is it better to tear or have an episiotomy during childbirth?

Is it better to tear or have an episiotomy during childbirth?

My name is Florence, and I am pregnant for the first time. I am at 29 weeks. Last week, I had a friend who had a 2nd-degree tear during childbirth. I was wondering if it wouldn’t have been better for the doctor to cut rather than let it tear. What do you think? Thanks for your help, because I want to know as much as possible if it happens to me when I give birth. Florence

Hello Florence,

It’s normal to have questions about this, especially if it happened to your friend during childbirth. Tearing comes with discomfort that can continue into the postnatal period. Many other mothers have asked me the same question. I can tell you what it involves, but nothing is simple. Frequently, the doctor will decide whether or not to perform an episiotomy based on the situation and timing. To provide you with more information, please read an article I wrote about tearing and episiotomies during childbirth (in french only).

Talk soon,

Marie

The Baby Expert

Discover our videos

Subscribe to a monthly or quarterly package now to access full videos.

Baby/parents, Childbirth, Prenatal

Welcoming a Baby that is Different

Theme: Welcoming a Baby that is Different In this video broadcast on Sunday, March 4, 2018, and pre-recorded at CHU

35-36 weeks pregnant, Baby/parents

Baby Massages

Do you want to massage your baby but don’t know where to start? In this video, Suzanne Boily, baby massage

17-18 weeks pregnant, Prenatal

Prenatal Yoga

Doing yoga during pregnancy is both possible and a great idea. In addition to soothing discomfort during pregnancy and feeling

33-34 weeks pregnant, Childbirth, Prenatal

Preparing your Stay in the Hospital

Who will go with you to the hospital? What papers do you need to fill in before admission? What is

View all available videos

Warning

The mariefortier.com website and the comprehensive information it contains are intended as practical tools for expectant parents preparing for the arrival of their baby. These are not meant to replace the skills, knowledge, and experience of qualified health professionals who are familiar with the facts, circumstances, and symptoms specific to each individual. As such, Marie Fortier Inc. and its employees cannot be held responsible for any potential adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of information provided on this website. It is the user’s responsibility to consult a physician or other qualified health professional for personal matters concerning them.