A systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative studies on childbirth perineal trauma for the development of a Core Outcome Set

About 85% of women who have a vaginal birth sustain some degree of perineal trauma [1]. Maternal injury during vaginal childbirth refers to any form of physical trauma [2]. Such injuries may have an impact on the relevant anatomical tissues and structures such as the perineal muscles, genitalia, external and internal anal sphincters, or rectal wall [2]. Injuries can occur either spontaneously or iatrogenically, via episiotomy or perineotomy. According to the perineal injury classification published by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), the International Continence Society (ICS) and the International Urogynecological Association (IUGA) [3,4], spontaneous perineal lacerations are classified into four primary categories [5].
Source: European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology - Category: OBGYN Authors: Tags: Review article Source Type: research