Stretching and Episiotomy
In a Nutshell
An episiotomy is a cut made with scissors to the perineum (tissue between vagina and rectum) while baby is crowning. It was first recommended in 1920, supposedly to prevent tearing and reduce trauma to the baby. In the last few decades many studies have shown that it actually causes more trauma to your body than it prevents. Thankfully it has fallen out of practice in many areas, though is still utilized in some circumstances. Ask your care provider what their episiotomy rates are.
Dig Deeper
In 1920, Dr. Joseph DeLee presented to the American Gynecological Society in favor of a cut to widen the vaginal outlet at the moment of birth:
“DeLee argued, in very stark language, that allowing 'natural' childbirth so frequently resulted in damage to the woman and her child, that intervention was obligatory: "In fact, only a small minority of women escape damage, while 4% of babies are killed and an indeterminable number [are] injured … If you believe a woman after delivery should be as h
Want More?
Sign up to research, build, and share your visual birth plan with your care team.
Your Selection
Stretch Naturally During Birth