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. 2020 May;65(3):404-409.
doi: 10.1111/jmwh.13096. Epub 2020 Mar 28.

Mediolateral Episiotomy: Technique, Practice, and Training

Sally Rollow Hersh  1 , Cathy L Emeis  1
Affiliations

Mediolateral Episiotomy: Technique, Practice, and Training

Sally Rollow Hersh et al. J Midwifery Womens Health. 2020 May.

Abstract

Episiotomy is one of the most common obstetric procedures. However, restrictive use of episiotomy has led to a decrease in its use in the United States. Historically, mediolateral episiotomy has been performed less often than median episiotomy in the United States, but both have purported advantages and disadvantages. Emerging research on episiotomy and obstetric anal sphincter injuries has led to an examination of the effects of mediolateral episiotomy. This article describes performance of a mediolateral episiotomy in a situation of fetal bradycardia. Technical aspects of the incision and repair are described, and outcome data and knowledge gaps are summarized. Implications for practice, clinical competency, and education are reviewed.

Keywords: OASIs; episiotomy; median episiotomy; mediolateral episiotomy; midline episiotomy; midwifery; obstetric anal sphincter injuries; perineal trauma; postpartum.

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References

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