Hi Cyndi, this is an excellent question as some women aren't aware there are alternatives to episiotomy.
But that is starting to change. In 2006, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists released new guidelines saying the procedure should no longer be routinely performed, and as a result the numbers have dropped.
A CNN article says many doctors are reportedly now reserving episiotomies for cases where the infant in distress. Still, about 25 percent of women in the U.S. have them.
Be sure to talk with your OB/GYN about your preference not to have an episiotomy and make sure it goes on your chart.
Also, practice your Kegels which exercise your vaginal muscles or perform perineal or pelvic-floor massages before and during labor.
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Hi Cyndi, this is an excellent question as some women aren't aware there are alternatives to episiotomy.
But that is starting to change. In 2006, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists released new guidelines saying the procedure should no longer be routinely performed, and as a result the numbers have dropped.
A CNN article says many doctors are reportedly now reserving episiotomies for cases where the infant in distress. Still, about 25 percent of women in the U.S. have them.
Be sure to talk with your OB/GYN about your preference not to have an episiotomy and make sure it goes on your chart.
Also, practice your Kegels which exercise your vaginal muscles or perform perineal or pelvic-floor massages before and during labor.
Be sure to check out this article on ]]>practicing your Kegels.]]>
Does this help?
January 2, 2009 - 7:37amThis Comment
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