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Questions and Answers

Q. My sister had an episiotomy with the birth of her son. This was very painful for her. I would like to avoid having one if possible, how might I reduce my chances of needing an episiotomy?

A. There are several ways to avoid the need for an episiotomy. First of all you need to make sure that your practitioner realizes your concern and that they will work with you to help avoid one. Prenatal perineal massage is helpful in stretching the tissues and muscles in the perineum, making them more flexible for birth. More suggestions:

• Slow, controlled pushing
• A gentle pushing effort when head and shoulders are born
• Massage and lubrication
• Warm compresses
• Manual support of the perineum (done by birth attendant)

Cyndi Klausing, RN, ACCE, has been a childbirth educator and breastfeeding counselor for over 18 years. She currently works as a newborn nursery nurse and is the mother of four sons.

Cyndi will answer your questions on fertility, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and babies. Her advice does not take the place of your practitioner. Personal answers will not always be possible.