Which is better - to be cut or tearing?
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A lot of research has been done on this subject and it's thought that tears tend to be more comfortable and heal better than a cut. In the 1970s it was very much routine. If you were having a first baby, there was a high chance that you'd be given a cut (an episiotomy), regardless of whether you needed one, but because it was thought to be 'better'. Fortunately, things have changed.
An episiotomy will go through skin and muscle, whereas a tear sometimes only affects the skin. If the tear is small, it may not be necessary to have any stitches at all. The midwife will suggest that you apply a sanitary towel and have it re-checked after an hour. If it isn't bleeding, it can be left to heal on its own. It's still important to keep the area clean and dry to reduce the risk of infection. But remember, you might not end up with either!
Anne Richley, midwife.
By Anne Richley, midwife
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Where to next?
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A guide to epidurals
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A guide to gas and air
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A guide to TENS
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Advice for dads-to-be
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All you need to know about Caesareans
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Assisted deliveries
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Caesarean link to childhood asthma
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Caesareans explained
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Choosing a birthing partner
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Choosing the right birth partner
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Common pregnancy worries
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Common pregnancy worries: 3rd trimester
