What is an episiotomy?

An episiotomy is defined as a surgical incision made in the perineum, which is the area between the vagina and the anus, during childbirth. This procedure is often performed to facilitate the delivery process, particularly when there are concerns about potential tearing or when the baby's heart rate indicates a need for expedited delivery.

By creating this incision, healthcare providers can help shorten the second stage of labor and minimize the risk of an extensive tear that could necessitate more complicated repairs later. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and is believed by some to make the delivery easier and safer for both the mother and the baby, though its routine use has been debated in recent years.

Understanding this definition highlights its specific context in obstetrics, differentiating it from other surgical procedures related to childbirth, such as the surgical incision into the abdomen for a cesarean section or labor induction methods.