Giving Birth after a 3rd degree episiotomy from previous birth.

don't have any experience, but this thread makes me feel better as I had a 3rd degree episiotomy cut, and it's been so tender, even at 2 months post partum that DH and I haven't yet been able to DTD. I feel horrible, like our relationship is suffering from it, but he says he understands.

I am worried about future births though because of my large cut, I'd still like to avoid a C section
 
don't have any experience, but this thread makes me feel better as I had a 3rd degree episiotomy cut, and it's been so tender, even at 2 months post partum that DH and I haven't yet been able to DTD. I feel horrible, like our relationship is suffering from it, but he says he understands.

I am worried about future births though because of my large cut, I'd still like to avoid a C section

mine took a long time to heal too, but mine tore open and got infected! eck! I figure id still rather go through that again than have a section.

anyway :hugs: hope it heals better, someone mentioned a cream to me that helps with healing, maybe ask your doctor about, cant remember what its called.
 
Tears always heal better than episiotomies and don't let anyone tell you otherwise! Recent studies have shown this! Think about it -- what do you think makes a stronger bond when put together: two straight lines (the cut tissue) or jagged lines (the tear)? Defnitely the tear! Put your index fingers side by side and then compare that to interlocking your fingers from both hands...should make sense now (unless I'm not explaining it well, which is possible.) They used to cut epis on everyone bc they though it healed better but theyre wrong; now I think they do it bc its obviously easier for them to sew together. Cutting an epis (which is the same as a 2nd degree tear) also puts you at risk for an extension to a 3rd or 4th degree tear as you've already weakened the tissue. While there are a few gals out there that have stretched to their max and need a little snip for a baby to fit, most will tear on their own or not tear and do less damage. Assisted deliveries also can result in a worse tear as do big babies. Do you mind sharing if you had a vacuum or forceps and how big your baby was, including the head measurement if you remember? And was your delivery controlled or did you "blow the baby out" in one push? (PS I'm a labor & delivery RN)

Yes, exactly what I was about to say, don't let anyone tell you otherwise people. I avoid performing episiotomies unless aboslutely necessary :)
 
Also it is necessary to point out that 3rd degree tears also have their own classification. Here in the UK you either have a 3a, 3b or a 3c...then of course a 4th degree. Midwives here suture anything less than a 3rd degree but either way there will be documentation and a little drawing of your tear, afterall we document EVERYTHING. For your 3rd degree tear, the Doctor would have classified it and may even put suggestions in the notes following the suture of your tear whether he recommends a section next time. If you speak to a Consultant they will get your previous notes out to see what type of 3rd degree you had and go from there. :)
 
Well I gave birth this morning....and just ended up with a very tiny tear that required 2 stitches, and they only said they were needed for cosmetic reasons. She said I was stretching nicely, and he was 9lbs 13 compared with Katie at 7lbs 9 when I had the episiotomy.
 
Congratulations! Glad to hear you only tore a little this time -- this recovery will be so much easier than last time! Enjoy your LO!
 
I had 3rd degree tearing right through vaginal tissue, perineum and into the rectum. It was borderline 4th degree I was told so it required lots of external and internal stitches, recovery was long. I have lots of scar tissue there and sex for me will always be painful.

I had my DD 5 months ago, had a natural vaginal birth. Labour was quick, she practically slid out after a few pushes and no tears (well 1 tiny thing that midwife said she could stitch or leave- I left it) it was awesome. I couldn't have experienced a better birth everything I imagined it would be.

There is hope that it can be very different. My birth was utterly perfect.
 
Well I gave birth this morning....and just ended up with a very tiny tear that required 2 stitches, and they only said they were needed for cosmetic reasons. She said I was stretching nicely, and he was 9lbs 13 compared with Katie at 7lbs 9 when I had the episiotomy.

Congratulations! Well done coping with it all and so glad you got on fine.
 

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