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Review
. 1989 May;160(5 Pt 1):1027-30.
doi: 10.1016/0002-9378(89)90152-x.

Episiotomy: can its routine use be defended?

J M Thorp Jr  1 , W A Bowes Jr
Affiliations
Review

Episiotomy: can its routine use be defended?

J M Thorp Jr et al. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1989 May.

Abstract

Episiotomy is routinely used before delivery in the United States. The rationale for routine episiotomy is based on two foundation arguments: that episiotomy reduces perineal trauma and that it prevents subsequent pelvic relaxation. A careful review finds little evidence to support these arguments. Episiotomy may predispose the gravid woman to third- and fourth-degree lacerations. Efforts should be directed to determine whether episiotomy is beneficial.

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Comment in

  • Pelvic muscles and episiotomy.
    Cosner KR, Dougherty MC, Bishop KR. Cosner KR, et al. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1991 Mar;164(3):936. doi: 10.1016/0002-9378(91)90553-4. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1991. PMID: 2003567 No abstract available.

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