Episiotomy
An episiotomy is an incision made during the childbirth to help accommodate an infant’s delivery. It can be performed in one of two ways, either vertically from the vagina to the rectum (midline) or at 45-degree angles from the vagina down to either side (mediolateral). Both of these methods carry their own set of risks and benefits, with midline episiotomies being more likely to heal well but also more prone to tearing, and vice-versa for mediolateral procedures.
Potential Complications
Episiotomies can be the best course of action in some births. However, while once thought of as a routine procedure, they are no longer recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists to be considered this way. As with any birth-related procedure, an episiotomy carries a risk of several complications, such as:
- Bleeding
- Extended tearing
- Hematoma
- Trouble urinating
- Pain during intercourse
Contact Us
While much of the concern during births is rightly placed on the wellbeing of the infant, complications in birthing procedures can just as easily affect the mother. It is important that you understand all the risks involved with procedures like episiotomy.
If you or a loved one has sustained an injury related to episiotomy and you suspect that your consent to the operation was not sufficiently informed, contact the experienced Philadelphia birth injury lawyer of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., at 215-238-1130.