This article contains posts and extracts from the UK Midwives and Consumers email list, a discussion group for people interested in midwifery in the UK. Open to midwives, students, mothers, and anyone interested in improving maternity services in UK. Posts in these archives express the views of the individual authors, and not those of the Association of Radical Midwives. Unless otherwise stated, the comments are personal experiences rather than evidence-based research.

Third Degree Tears, and management of the next birth

These archives contain extracts from discussions held on the UK Midwives and Consumers email list, a discussion group for people interested in midwifery in the UK. Open to midwives, students, mothers, and anyone interested in improving maternity services in UK. Posts in these archives express the views of the individual authors, and not those of the Association of Radical Midwives.


Third Degree Tears


Repairing the tear

Feeling a bit fed up tonight. Looked after a woman today, 1st baby, came in fully dilated, went on all fours, did as her urge inclined her to in the way of pushing. Head coming out steadily, then big push and head sort of a third of the way out. I said just a small push now, wham bam baby, head and body caught in one push and ? third degree tear. GUILT, GUILT.

Asked for the labour suite manager to review the tear as it looked like just the skin of the anus involved. But got a co-ordinator who seemed to think I was asking whether it needed suturing at all!! When I pointed out I was querying 3rd degree, to my horror an SHO (relatively junior doctor) was sent in. I asked her discreetly if she felt she was up to seeing if it was a 3rd degree and she looked sheepish and carried on to look. After furtling, she asked for the senior registrar. I am so cross with myself that I didn’t insist on a senior to start with, to prevent so much furtling for the woman.

Apparently it was a third degree tear, and was sutured in theatre under spinal. There is an issue and has been for a while between doctors and midwives re. third degree tears and I and others have felt it is under-reported from obstetricians and over-reported from midwives births. Sad but true.

Anyway hopefully the woman was sutured well, and that is what is important in the end, but she had to wait 3 hours to be sutured.

Helen


At the hospital I work in third degree tears are now sutured by general surgeons, not obstericians, as this apparently gives a better result in the long term. The downside is the woman is not sutured until the morning when the theatre list starts, so if she happens to have given birth at 1800 she will wait till 0900 the next day. Of course she will be nil by mouth as she is going to theatre in addition to probably having had nothing to eat all day while in labour!

Donna


I was with a woman last week who had a third degree tear. She had to wait 3 hours to go to the obstetric theatre for a spinal and suturing. She was uncomfortable, bleeding from the wound and dreading the thought of waiting 12 hours or perhaps even more if it is not given high priority (is it?) – sounds pretty grim.

Helen


You don’t often get to know long term outcomes but the women (who have such experiences) do seem to be OK postnatally on the ward. They also have a strict regime of cocodamol 4hrly for three days to “bung them up” while they heal, then lactulose for 5 days as well as antibiotic cover. They are seen by the surgeon on the postnatal ward and there is trouble if his drug regime has not been adhered to. He prefers them to stay in until they have had their bowels open to ensure there are no problems.

As for having to wait to be sutured, the few women I have cared for don’t seem to mind (or they don’t complain to me). They often sleep well in the relatively more peaceful atmosphere on labour ward as compared to the postnatal ward. If the tear is bleeding then sutures are put in to achieve haemastasis while waiting and they are given pain relief if needed. It amazes me that some women can quite happily wander along to the toilet and get up and change their babies etc with this *wound*.

It is given priority in the morning and they are placed first on the list. Depending on how busy their theatre list is, sometimes the surgeons come to labour ward, but more often the woman goes to main theatre.

Donna


I spoke to a woman who had a 4th degree tear which required revision of the repair a few months after the birth. When I asked her, she said she would not consider a c-section for a subsequent birth. However, it is important to note that she had her repair and the revision done under local anesthesia. All is well, thanks to an understanding consultant.

More women and consultants (and midwives) need to consider alternatives to general anesthesia for repair of these tears. The practice at our hospital is a pudendal block with the repair done in the birthing room. I had another client who was diagnosed with an molar pregnancy at 20 weeks. Her past history included sexual abuse. Her procedure was done under epidural and I was allowed to be with her for support.

Freda


Why did it happen?

I seem to have had a run of negative labour ward experiences – emergency CSs, induction for IUD – and *two* third degree tears…

Both with woman in all-fours position.

First instance (2 months ago): a very unyielding perineum. On reflection, I should have asked her to ‘turn over’ – since I’ve sometimes found (oddly enough) that left lateral or semi-recumbent relaxes a perineum that has been tight in all-fours. But I didn’t. Third degree tear sutured under spinal in theatre.

 

Second instance (this week): all lovely and normal, calm mother, second stage progressing well. Controlled birth of baby’s head – sudden gush of blood – but perineal skin stretched beautifully and stayed intact. Later, expected to find small vaginal wall tear – instead found deep tear in wall. Third degree tear sutured under spinal in theatre. (Another midwife suggested that maybe the baby’s shoulder or elbow caught in a smallish tear and enlarged it…)

 

Three points:

First: I’ve discussed these experiences with both my supervisor and manager. Both gave me warm support and understanding. In spite of everything, I work in a good place!

Second: Although I’m aware of considerable anecdotal evidence that perineal trauma is less likely if the mother adopts an all-fours position for birth, I’m wondering if there is any research-based evidence. I seem to recall that a MIDIRS search a year or so ago drew a blank, but I’m wondering if I’ve missed anything. Anybody got any ideas?

Third: What has been the experience of other members of this list regarding birth in all-fours and trauma?

Hannah


Most of our women give birth kneeling or on all-fours. I think my own observation would lead me to suggest that there is a more frequent occurrence of labial grazes and small tears, and probably no clear evidence of any difference to perineal or vaginal tears. If the perineum is intact and yet there is a vaginal tear it might well suggest the baby came hand-up.

But another important factor to take into account here (and I think it often gets overlooked in hospital, because hospital midwives do not meet the labouring woman before admission) is the woman’s nutritional status and general level of fitness and energy. The strength of surface and connective tissue layers, and the elasticity of muscle itself, is very much bound up with health, and specifically diet which promotes strong and elastic tissue, exercise which helps to keep muscles toned and responsive, and energy levels and blood biochemistry which all affects the vasculature (ain’t that a good word, I always think).

Does any of this ring a bell?

My partner-midwife and I spend quite a time talking about whether this woman or that woman might have avoided a tear. We always seem to end up saying to each other: “Some women tear, others don’t. You can’t win ’em all.”

Melanie


Feeling very depressed today. Looked after a young couple yesterday having their first baby (both 17). She came in with a history of contractions 1in 15 lasting 10-20 seconds (wouldn’t be put off when she phoned) and turned out to be 7-8 cms dilated membranes bulging. She mobilised for a bit and had the odd puff on the entenox every now and then. Then she lay down on her side and went to sleep and I am ashamed to say I actually began to doubt my VE because she was so relaxed. She suddenly sat up at 1745 and said she wanted to push and at 1753 her waters went. Things progressed well and 20 mins later presenting part was advancing rapidly.

It was at this point that despite my trying to talk her through it she really lost it. She was screaming at the top of her voice and pushing like mad cos she just wanted it out. I couldn’t get her to listen to me or try the entonox.

Anyway she gave birth within 5 mins of this, girl 8lbs 12ozs. But on inspecting the perineum I found an extensive tear that extended to the anus. The Reg came to check it and pronounced a third degree tear where the external sphincter had torn through completely.

I feel that maybe if I’d got her to listen to me it might not have happened although I also know that you can’t always prevent tears from happening. Everyone at work was very supportive and regaled me with stories of their 3rd degree tears but I still felt awful.

The woman herself was sitting in bed breastfeeding and eating fish and chips 1 hour after delivery still not needing pain relief… I have promised to go and see her on New Years day when I am next in so I can see how she is.

Donna


I would like to let you know of an American anamoly that took me awhile to figure out. It has to do with perineal tears in birth. It was my experience working in the UK that third degree tears were rare things and something to be professionally embarrassed over. Not here.

Here there are not 3 degrees of tearing but 4. Why 4? I couldn’t figure it out for awhile. But eventually the penny dropped. What we would call third degree tears are so common here that they have divided them into 2 categories. And a very high percentage of these tears are following episiotomy. It is midline, not medio-lateral but I doubt the placement of the episiotomy is the culprit. OBs deliver most of the babies here and they did not have the benefit of being taught by midwives. The medical school adage here is: see one, do one, teach one. And that often isn’t far off from the truth.

So second stage is an uncontrolled explosion, as far as the perineum is concerned. All women are in lithotomy with feet in stirrups. Episiotomy is not uncommon, the mother is told to “Push hard!”. The best part is that the training on the mechanism of birth does NOT include the concept of internal rotation of head or shoulders. Therefore once the head is born, the body should come out IMMEDIATELY. And we know (here) how dangerous second stage is for the baby, so the doctor starts pulling on the head when that doesn’t happen. Which we know is most of the time. So what happens next? Well, America has the most phenomenally high incidence of shoulder dystocia accompanied by serious tears.

So as bad as things are in the UK, and I don’t minimise that for a second, just remember you could be practising in amerika.

Melody – midwife in the USA


What about the next birth? Elective caesarean?

I am currently caring for a woman who had a third degree tear at her first birth in 1999. She is now 33 weeks pregnant with her second child and has been told that she should have an elective caesarean section. She has had some faecal incontinence since her last birth, but is very scared of having a section.

Has anyone cared for a woman with these problems, and is a elective section always the only answer? I have been searching the literature, but I am not getting very far!

Eleanor


In my opinion the lady would be a fool to choose an elective LSCS without long and careful consideration. She may not even get a nick this time!!! Yet a LSCS will DEFINITELY cut her open with all its associated risks!!

Why did this happen the first time is always a good starting point……was she on her back? did she have an episiotomy? Both these increase the risk of third degree tears.

I have cared for women with this scenario and they need lots of psychological care but also the correct information. I do not believe there is any evidence to support the widely held view that they are more likely to tear or would be better off with episiotomies or LSCS.

Better that she labours gently and physiologically, is given the type of care that promotes belief in her body and when the time comes to get into a position she feels comfortable in…..for most women this is all fours and head down all fours will help with gentle stretching of the perineum. She could talk to women who have been in a similar situation. If that is not possible as you or she know no-one you can contact me off line for further help.

Virginia Independent Midwife
vahowes@babyscoming.freeserve.co.uk


You could also advise perineal massage using wheatgerm oil (available from Boots) in the weeks leading up to the birth.

Linda


Perinal massage is very good. I also would advise to let the mother soak in the bath tub during labor – softens the tissue very much and the mother should exercise squatting (tailor position) and hold her own knees good spread while pushing.

Rachel


I suggest that hands and knees or left lateral for the birth, if the woman feels comfortable in either position. I would strongly advise against dorsal or standing positions and I would do a lot of work with her about blowing and letting the baby s-l-i-d-e out s-l-ow-l-y .

Mary Cronk, Independent Midwife


I am bemused by people suggesting elective CS as a way to prevent perineal damage. They are suggesting that you go for guaranteed severe lacerations on your abdomen, cutting through skin and muscle and increasing risks of all sorts of complications (see ‘risks of caesarean sections‘) – instead of having a chance of lacerations on your perineum. Swapping the possibility of one adverse outcome, for the certainty of another.

On the other hand, not having experienced a third-degree tear, I suppose I am not in a position to guess how much risk and discomfort it is worth going through to avoid another one. It certainly seems to be thebête noir of British obstetrics; I wonder if women who have had a third degree tear and a caesarean section have any comments on comparing the two? Did your obstetrician discuss any other ways of reducing the risks of a third degree tear, such as avoiding forceful pushing in the third stage, and trying to ‘breathe’ the baby out?

The research strongly suggests that third degree tears are more likely with an episiotomy than without – as they tend to occur when an episiotomy extends. However, I suspect that this may be based on midline episiotomies, common in the USA, and not mediolateral episiotomies which are done here -which go out to the side. But mediolateral episiotomies are apparently more painful, take longer to heal, and are more prone to complications than midline. The one saving grace of mediolateral episiotomies is that they are supposedly less likely to extend into a third degree tear, as they take the damage out to the thicker muscle at the side, rather than down the ‘line of least resistance’, the midline of the perineum.

The following quote is from ‘A Guide to Effective Care in Pregnancy and Childbirth’, by Enkin, Keirse et al. It is comparing liberal versus restricted use of episiotomy, so is perhaps of limited relevance in this case – but still interesting in its conclusions regarding mediolateral versus midline episiotomy:

“There is no evidence to support the postulated benefits of liberal use of episiotomy. Controlled trials show that restricted use of episiotomy (as opposed to liberal use) results in less risk of posterior perineal trauma, less need for suturing perineal trauma, fewer healing complications, and no differences in the risk of severe vaginal or perineal trauma, postpartum perineal pain, dyspareunia, or urinary incontinence. The only disadvantage shown in the restrictive use of episiotomy is an increased risk of anterior perineal trauma. These results are similar for both mediolateral and midline episiotomy.”

“….The question of whether midwline episiotomy results in a better outcome than mediolateral episiotomy has not been satisfactorily answered. The suggested advantages of performing a midline episiotomy are: better healing with improved appearance of the scar, and better future sexual function. Thos not favoring the use of the midline method point out that it is associated with higher rates of extension of the episiotomy and consequently an increased risk of serious perineal trauma. In one trial, midline episiotomy was associated with less bruising, more third-degree perineal lacerations, and earlier resumption of sexual intercourse, but neither this nor a subsequent trial was methodologically sound enough to draw reliable conslusions.” (p295-6, 3rd Edition)

More on episiotomy and third-degree tears in Obstetric Myths Versus Research Realities, by Henci Goer – chapter on episiotomy, summarising the literature, with full refs. (http://www.cma.ca/cmaj/letonlin/1997/l970474.htm) –

Reviewing Thorp JM and Bowes WA. Episiotomy: Can its routine use be defended? Am J Obstet Gynecol 1989;160(5 Pt 1):1027-1030 she notes that “No study found that midline or mediolateral episiotomy reduced the incidence of third- or fourth-degree tears. ” [1]

Anther very relevant study: Third degree obstetric anal sphincter tears: risk factors and outcome of primary repair , by AH SUltan [2, abstracts], found that

“Eleven of 25 (44%) women who were delivered without instruments and had a third degree tear did so despite a posterolateral episiotomy”.

I don’t know what a ‘posterolateral’ episiotomy is, but it sounds as if it is like midline – to the side and backwards?

Angela Horn


Can anyone give me any information on how to prevent a subseqent 3d tear? The consultant suggested I have an elective Caesarean (which I don’t want) or an elective episiotomy. I am now 37 weeks – had Hyperemesis for the first 4 months and have had SPD for the last 5 months – I have to use elbow crutches to walk…

I have a child of 7 years (born Nov 93). During labour I had a great 1st stage with no pain relief, started at 8am and got to hospital at 1pm where I was 8cm dilated. I did not dilate any more at the hospital and at around 6pm the midwife ruptured the membranes. After this I was put in Lithothmy and had overwhelming desire to push which I could not control. The head soon crowned and the baby was born quickly. I felt fine but it turned out I had a third degree tear involving the anal sphinter muscle.

.. I started getting regular contracts at 8am, went to hospital at 1.30pm where I was 8cm dilated. At around 6/7pm the midwife had me get up on the bed and lie in a semi-sitting position (more down than up) with legs apart (not 100% sure about this time but speaking to my birth partner this is what we came up with)to perform ARM. After the ARM the contractions became fast and very strong then all pain stopped (by the way I had no pain relief at all during the first stage as I found I could cope OK).

The second stage began and it felt like something had jumped into my body and was controlling it. I had absolutely no control over the pushing at all and after 2 of these sensations the head crowned. With the next sensation the head and body came out and that was it! She was 8lbs 1oz and fine.

I had no coaching in labour. It was in this semi lying/sitting position that I gave birth. No episiotomy was suggested (I had specified that I did not want one however!).

I had no problem with the tear and was sutured in the delivery room using gas and air. No one explained the possibility of future problems or even what a 3rd degree tear was. The only problem I did have was a few months after when I continued to get an offensive discharge and found that a peice of tissue from my vagina had been left out – after pointing this out to GPs etc I was able to have it repaired under a local in hospital which was fine and all healed very well – no incontinence problems at all!

The whole thing finally healed up (with no real stress incontinence) and I forgot about it until I had to see a consultant with this pregnancy at about 16 weeks (due to the previous tear and hyperemesis). This was when I learned the hospital recommended an elective caesarian after such a tear as I could become incontinent in both bladder and anus.

At the time I was just surprised and didn’t know the first thing about C-Sections – now I have more information and feel that I would not like a caesarian if I could possibily avoid it.

Can anyone help with advice, previous experience etc? My main worry is that this uncontrollable pushing will happen again but even quicker this time – any advice on how to control it (would gas and air help?) would be most appreciated.

Jane



I believe all fours is a good position for birth with SPD (although SPD sufferers need to find their own position really) and might minimise any tear that does occur.

Remember though, an elective episiotomy does NOT neccessarily reduce the chances of extension, that is to say an episiotomy can extend, just as a tear might. Also, there is a strong school of thought that tears heal better than episiotomies anyway and women have less pain and discomfort (this is backed by research).

Vicky


I am so upset to hear that you have been advised to have a caesarian because seven years ago after a rapid delivery you had a third degree tear. However you have no problems with incontinence of either type. Why is it that obstetricians are so obsessed with urinary incontinence or anal problems if mothers are allowed to have vaginal births?

My belief is that physiologically incontinence may be more likely to occur when the head during the second stage may sit for a long time in the vagina, damaging the muscles. I am finding this quite difficult to describe, I hope you can understand what I mean.

The perineum prior to birth is thick, and during a controlled descent it will stretch and enlarge until it is almost paper-thin and at this point it should allow the babies head to slip through. A small tear is not a problem and normally will heal well without intervention. The important thing is to try and control the descent of the head, as I always said, gentle pushes.

The importance of preparing the perineum during the antenatal period and preparing the mother may well help. Previous scar tissue and the whole perineum should also be massaged with a suitable oil and gently stretched. This cannot guarantee that you will not tear but it should help. The state of your perineum needs to be assessed antenatally. If you have rather friable tissue or a very rigid perineum this could be a contraindication to a normal delivery.

I do so hope you have the birth you want and please enjoy your pregnancy and don’t let this take away any of the joys of getting ready for your birth.

Audrey


The suggestion of an elective Caesarean to prevent a third degree tear is, I feel, totally outrageous. Why does your consultant think that this major abdominal operation will be less risky to you or your baby? Perhaps you could ask her/him?

I don’t think there is any need for an elective episiotomy either – my practice with women who have had a previous third degree tear is to observe and plan my management of the situation as it occurs – ie, keep a watchful eye on the perineum during second stage. I do not doom women into having unnecessary cuts and I’m sure midwives on this list will nod in agreement. I have not had a bad outcome yet and often have intact perineums. At worst, a second degree tear requiring minimal or no sutures.

Speak to your midwife – surely if you are left to labour and birth in the place and position of your choice, you will birth your baby beautifully with no surgical interference.

Sorry – I’m not great with any research references but I would like to see your consultant’s research which advocates abdominal surgery or perineal mutilation to prevent a tear!!

Brenda


No wonder there was such damage pushing in such a way. Following ARM there was rapid descent of the head, not allowing for physiological stretching and up in lithotomy – she was pushing through her perineum!!!

There is no evidence that there will be a repetition and the likelihood is that she will not tear at all.

I had a client with the same story a while back and I had various professionals offering advice about what I “should” do ranging from section to elective episiotomy.

What the woman decided was she would push with her head down whilst on all fours if the baby was in a hurry…………. as it turned out she was standing and the perineum stretched nicely with no damage!!!!

Read the story of Alison on my website www.babyscoming.co.uk.

I would ask for evidence that section is the best way forward before making her decision.

Virginia Howes, Independent Midwife
www.babyscoming.co.uk


I would just suggest a confident, experienced midwife! Also, an exaggerated knee chest position for second stage.

Lynn


I looked into this with a woman in the same circumstances several years ago. She had some incontinence of flatus and occasional leeking/staining from a bowel movement and was told that another third-degree tear would make it worse. She did have nerve studies done and was told that the amount of posible damage following another third degree tear could depend on the skill of the repairer.

So the advice was a bit if and but… We discussed all the gentle birthing options and my client ummed and ahhed about a home water birth but in the end opted for another Caesarean Operation, as there was no way I (or anyone) could guantee not needing forceps or Ventouse nect time. 5-6 years on she is still uncertain if she made the right decision. You can only go with your feelings after finding out as much as you can. All the best.

Chris


It may depend upon the thickness of the muscle layer between the rectum and the vagina. I have a woman on my caseload at the moment having a c/section because the muscle is paper thin.

Cate


Good luck. As well as trying to breathe the baby out s-l-o-w-l-y try to think “saggy baggy softy fanny”. (you can get it back to nice firm bum after) My other suggestion is staying off your back. In the second stage left-lateral or hands and knees, whichever feels right for you, and don’t be afraid to change if your body wants to. Lots and lots of positive thoughts.

Mary


Have you thought about birth positions related to slowing the birth? Knee-to-chest or left lateral with a pillow under the hips? Trying to reverse gravity and focussing on breathing, not pushing, so it is just the uterus doing the pushing. Try a yoga tape for breath awareness.

Chris, midwife and yoga for pregnancy teacher.


A friend of mine had a third degree tear with her first baby – she felt she had been asked to push when she had no urge to, had the midwife from hell, etc etc.

Having decided what went wrong, she determined to have a home birth the second time.

Her allocated consultant washed his hands of her – “Well, if you want to end up incontinent of faeces, that’s your problem”…

The labour was progressing well; the midwife asked if she could examine my friend – particularly as she was concerned about her perineum. My friend did not want to push, but wanted to breathe the baby out slowly (just as Mary recommended). Her partner was stood at the side of the bed – saying “breathe, breathe”, and hyperventilating. The midwife was asking my friend to put her bottom on the bed so she could actually examine her. The partner passes out and his head hits the floor. My friend is distracted by this event and relaxes her tail end – the baby crowns and is born oh so smoothly – a girl to follow a boy. No tear, no episiotomy. A story I’ve always cherished.

Terri


Update from Jane:

Hi – My initial query was about a vaginal birth after a 3rd degree tear and with PSD. I got lots of great information and I just thought I would update you about the birth.

I went 9 days overdue and after a painless sweep went into labour starting at 12.30pm on Saturday – going into hospital at 4.30 pm and delivering at 6.30pm (1/2 hour of pushing on all fours on the bed over a beanbag – I tried the left lateral but found it really uncomfortable. Delivered a baby girl (Asha) 8lbs 10oz!! she also came out with her hands by her head! – All I had was a small tear – I had 2 stitches which came out later that night. So no major abdominal surgery!!

Jane


Does anyone know of the chance of having a susequent third degree tear in a second pregnancy (in a woman who had a third degree tear the first time with a ventouse). The MIDIRS search provided little insight, quoting risk factors of having a third degree tears as primips, instrumental deliveries and episiotomies. No mention of previous third degree tears. I will advise the woman that an all fours or left lateral position may offer some protective effect. What about a waterbirth?? Any thoughts?

Kate


I attended a client who had previously had an extended episiotomy 3rd degree that had made life really horrible (understatement).

She booked at 34 weeks and began daily perineal massage and we talked about her birthing baby into her hands so she controlled her pushing and perineum stretching. (planned hospital birth)

She birthed her baby s-l-o-w-l-y holding her perineum and baby’s advancing head in the birthing pool kneeling with one leg and the other leg foot on bottom of pool. Vertex visible for about an hour FH fine scalp good colour.

She had very small second degree tear sutured with interrupted sutures (reviewed by lovely registrar).

She is ecstatic – her perineum 10 days on is comfortable and healing well.

Andrya Prescott
Surrey Independent Midwives
(www.independentmidwife.com)


I had a 3rd degree episiotomy with my first, 2nd degree with my second, and neither of these were seen as a barrier to giving birth in water. My m/w and I did discuss the need to push him out slowly – but in the end he came out with one involuntary push (so quickly and painlessly that I didn’t really believe Linsi when she told me I should probably pick my baby up!). I had a small tear – but nothing that warranted stitching…. doing the splits over the edge of the bath the next day did more damage – so I ended up with stitches after all!

Victoria


I had one 3rd degree tear and one 4th degree tear with the hospital births of 2 of my children – my 4th degree tear was partly due to an POPP baby, but both were almost definately caused because I was in hospital, strapped to a delivery bed and flat on my back.

My following 2 babies were born at home in water and I did not tear at all as I was able to deliver them in a position that I most comfortatble in (all fours in my case).

Both my homebirths had bigger head circumferences than my hospital births and my last one was substantaly bigger (weighing in at over 9lbs) than either of my hospital births (over 2 lbs in one case). My other 3 babies were emergency C/S for various reasons.

But from someone who has experienced both 3 C/S and 2 very bad tears I can honestly state that the recovery from 3rd or 4th degree tear was far less painful, and is far quicker than that of a C/S. Even having 2 very bad tears in the past I am still opting for a homebirth in water next March. (update: she had her homebirth in March, with an intace perineum yet again!)

Linda Hinchliffe – mother and VBAC supporter.


And from someone who had 1 CS and 1 3rd degree tear, I can say that so far, at least (8 days later), c-section recovery is far easier, quicker, and less painful – not least because I’m still in pain from the tear, over two years ago, not to mention the continence problems.

I think the variation in recovery from 3rd degree tears is so great that generalisations aren’t all that useful. Some women are fine after surgery, some require no surgery, some find that surgery can’t help much at all. After my third degree tear, I couldn’t walk unaided for over a week; after the section I could walk to the shower only 24 hours after the birth itself. I could dress myself only three days after the section; after the tear I needed help (because moving my legs caused perineal pain) for weeks.

Even laughing hurts less after my section than it did after the tear, and I need far fewer painkillers, much less often.

All the research my midwife was able to find showed that the main factors are ongoing symptoms. A 3rd degree tear that healed up fairly well is quite a different affair from one that healed badly and left multiple serious symptoms, even if the extent of the two tears was the same to begin with – and 3rd degree tears can vary hugely in extent anyway.

A, mother


A 3rd degree tear that healed up fairly well is quite a different affair from one that healed badly and left multiple serious symptoms, even if the extent of the two tears was the same to begin with

I agree: I think the key here is how well the original repair was done rather than the extent of the tearing. As I had had a near- phobia of pelvic-floor damage before my first birth, I had read everything research-wise I could get my hands on about the subject prior to birth; from what I remember, the key factor with regard to the time required for and success of recovery was whether or not the initial repair was well done (i.e. done properly, extensively (under anaesthetic by a surgeon knowledgeable in this type of repair) etc.

This knowledge gave me the courage to decline the services of an obstetrician whom I felt was unsympathetic and insensitive when I transferred into hospital post-homebirth #1 for a repair: he was downright rude, suggested that it was my fault for having had a homebirth, and told me that I would not be “allowed” to leave hospital for several days. I dismissed him from the room with a wonderfully useful phrase (from the Mary Cronk lexicon which should be a book; I like to imagine it will be called “Don’t diss Mama, Mr Doctor Man”) “allowed is not appropriate language to use when addressing a mentally competent adult” — with the full support and backing of my independent midwife, who was horrified by his manner. The Sr. Consultant on duty that night was called in; she spent several hours in surgery doing a skilful and extensive repair that has served me well.

I am eternally glad for the strength that allowed me at that vulnerable time to avoid being repaired by a doctor who made it clear that he had neither sympathy nor empathy for my situation: would I really want to entrust my continence, future sexual health and possibility of childbirth to such a man? Absolutely not. Interestingly he initially assumed that he’d be doing the repair under local anaesthetic. When the repair was done (by the lovely Consultant), it was done in theatre, with a full team, under spinal anaesthesia. I do not see how it could have been done properly otherwise — certainly not under local anaesthetic (the thought fills me with absolute dread). I wonder how many women’s *ongoing* problems are the result of botched initial repairs. IIRC, subsequent follow-up surgery can be successful, but the overall long-term outcome is largely determined by the initial repair and healing thereof…

I wonder how many Obs are truly skilled in this type of repair? How many take hours rather than minutes to do such repairs? How many women suffer lifelong problems as a result of their lack of knowledge? At my local NHS trust hospital there is an interest in perineal health following childbirth: a perineal clinic staffed by Obstetricians and midwives, at least one of whom is doing ongoing research into perineal healing post-partum for a Masters degree was established about 3 years ago — is this unique, or is awareness growing?

Antonia (mother of three children, all born at home)


The Royal College of Obst. and Gynaecologists has produced recommendations which really ALL obstetricians should be sticking to in the case of third- and fourth-degree tears. Briefly:

1) They should be repaired in theatre with good lighting, under appropriate anaesthesia – preferably a spinal block.

2) The doctor carrying out the repair should be experienced or under the supervision of an experienced consultant.

3) Aparients (laxatives) should be prescribed to prevent constipation and straining post repair. Together with dietary advice.

4) Physiotherapy referrals for strengthening pelvic floor.

5) Careful explanation about signs of possible incontinence and observation to ensure everything is in in working order. Which in the Trust I work ats case means having to have a bowel movement prior to discharge.

6) Offering caesarean delivery for future pregnancies as a recommendation – an offer not an order.

Any obstetrician who doesn’t follow the RCOG guidelines is risking professional suicide; they do appear well researched and reasonable.

I am pleased to say the Trust I work at sticks to these guidelines pretty rigidly.

Sarah, midwife


Fenton’s Procedure, and elective episiotomy?

My first child is now 2 and a half and was born in hospital. Labour was over in 4 hrs and came on quickly and very strongly – I skipped ‘early labour’ and went straight to transition!!!

I was not encouraged or supported in the use of upright positions and was encouraged to actively ‘purple face’ push for the whole of the second stage. An anterior lip was removed and when it came to crowning, there was so much stretch and no more so that an episiotomy was suggested and, along with the inevitable Type II dips that were now occurring, I agreed in order to get Thomas born as quickly as possible.

In addition to the episiotomy there were labial and vaginal tears and the whole thing took a good while to stitch up again. I have no beef with the nice lady who stitched me up – I reckon she did nothing but that and did a very good job of what must have been a very messy presentation. However, there was so much bruising and swelling and no care offered to try and alleviate same post delivery, that the most massive amount of scar tissue formed in the perineum.

Following various consultations it was decided that the best option was to have a modified Fenton’s procedure performed. Looking back I cannot understand why I went for this since it was clearly meant to deal with a vagina that was too tight (I never complained of this once) as opposed to scar tissue. I have since spoken to a lady who suffered similarly with excessive scar tissue who had surgery to remove the scar tissue, which sounds like that I should have had done, if anything.

Having not been too upset about the appearance of my nether regions following the episiotomy, I am horrified by how they look and feel following this surgery. There is no perineum to speak of. The distance between the base of the vagina and the anus is about half what it was before. There is no soft, stretchy perineal tissue and in fact the tissue here is paper thin.

In my opinion the chances of having an unpleasant third degree tear involving the anus/rectum seem very high to me based on the new anatomy I have now got.

I am wanting to have a home birth this time so I can be free to do what feels right, but an considering requesting an elective episiotomy figuring that a planned incision without lots of tearing might be better all round.

What is everyone’s opinion of this idea????

Isobel


I have picked up your email and wanted to share my thoughts with you.

a) I do not think an elective episiotomy would help you at all. In fact it might just lead to a repeat of the first experience because it might extend and the midwife knowing your history might want to transfer you to hospital for suturing.

b) If there is very little perineal body It would be difficult to know where to cut an episiotomy If the paper thin tissue does tear a little that will be easily dealt with with a couple of little stitches or even left to heal unstitched depending on the midwife’s opinion at the time.

c) I would suggest you discuss with your midwife giving birth on all fours or lying on your left side with your knees bent but not too far apart, so that the head is not bouncing on the perineum (or whats left of it).

I would also suggest that you do not actively push, but just do as your body wants you to, and at the time of emergence of the baby’s head that you try very very hard not to push. Sometimes making yourself blow through the contraction will help you stop actively pushing This will let the birth of the head take place S-L-O-W-L-Y almost let the head S-L-I-D-E out. Your midwife may suggest that if she thinks the head is coming quickly she apply some gentle counter pressure to control the head.

Please do not hesitate to share this email with your midwife.

Mary Cronk, midwife for over thirty years


Links to other sources of information:

Obstetric Myths Versus Research Realities, by Henci Goer – chapter on episiotomy, summarising the literature, with full refs. (http://www.cma.ca/cmaj/letonlin/1997/l970474.htm)

Article on midline versus mediolateral episiotomy in the BMJ (http://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/full/320/7250/1615)

Correspondence arising from it is perhaps a more entertaining read. It includes a wonderful letter from Rachel Myr, who was on this list, saying that the importance of the midwife makes a difference to perineal outcomes too – on postnatal wards, “we learn to recognize our colleagues’ ‘signatures’ by watching mothers sit down on chairs”. There is also a letter from Sheila Kitzinger, and then one from an Argentinian obstetrician which left me staggered – they are considering changing their policy of “routine” episiotomy, applied to 80% of women, to one of “selective” use, estimated appropriate for … wait for it… a mere 30% !!!!!
(http://www.bmj.com/cgi/eletters/320/7250/1615)

Abstracts on third degree tears

[1] Am J Obstet Gynecol 1989 May;160(5 Pt 1):1027-30

Comment in: Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1991 Mar;164(3):936

Episiotomy: can its routine use be defended?

Thorp JM Jr, Bowes WA Jr.

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.

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.

Publication Types: Review Review, Academic

PMID: 2658595 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]

===

[2] Third degree obstetric anal sphincter tears: risk factors and outcome of primary repair , by AH SUltan full text is available on the BMJ site (http://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/abstract/308/6933/887?ijkey=FiAllVgzPAVEg)

[2] BMJ 1994;308:887-891 (2 April)

A H Sultan, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Whipps Cross Hospital, London E11 1NR.,a M A Kamm, C N Hudson, C I Bartram a St Bartholomew’s (Homerton) Hospital, London E9 6SR St Mark’s Hospital, London EC1V 2PS Correspondence to: Mr

Abstract

Objectives : To determine (i) risk factors in the development of third degree obstetric tears and (ii) the success of primary sphincter repair. Design : (i) Retrospective analysis of obstetric variables in 50 women who had sustained a third degree tear, compared with the remaining 8553 vaginal deliveries during the same period. (ii) Women who had sustained a third degree tear and had primary sphincter repair and control subjects were interviewed and investigated with anal endosonography, anal manometry, and pudendal nerve terminal motor latency measurements. Setting : Antenatal clinic in teaching hospital in inner London. Subjects : (i) All women (n=8603) who delivered vaginally over a 31 month period. (ii) 34 women who sustained a third degree tear and 88 matched controls. Main outcome measures : Obstetric risk factors, defaecatory symptoms, sonographic sphincter defects, and pudendal nerve damage. Results – (i) Factors significantly associated with development of a third degree tear were: forceps delivery (50% v 7% in controls; P=0.00001), primiparous delivery (85% v 43%; P=0.00001), birth weight >4 kg (P=0.00002), and occipitoposterior position at delivery (P=0.003). No third degree tear occurred during 351 vacuum extractions. Eleven of 25 (44%) women who were delivered without instruments and had a third degree tear did so despite a posterolateral episiotomy. (ii) Anal incontinence or faecal urgency was present in 16 women with tears and 11 controls (47% v 13%;20P=0.00001). Sonographic sphincter defects were identified in 29 with tears and 29 controls (85% v 33%; P=0.00001). Every symptomatic patient had persistent combined internal and external sphincter defects, and these were associated with significantly lower anal pressures. Pudendal nerve terminal motor latency measurements were not significantly different. Conclusions : Vacuum, extraction is associated with fewer third degree tears than forceps delivery. An episiotomy does not always prevent a third degree tear. Primary repair is inadequate in most women who sustain third degree tears, most having residual sphincter defects and about half experiencing anal incontinence, which is caused by persistent mechanical sphincter disruption rather than pudendal nerve damage. Attention should be directed towards preventive obstetric practice and surgical techniques of repair.

Clinical implications

Third degree obstetric tears are an uncommon but serious complication of vaginal delivery

Forceps delivery, first vaginal delivery, a large baby (>4 kg), and persistent fetal occipitoposterior position are the main risk factors

Almost half the affected women have persistent defaecatory symptoms despite a primary sphincter repair

The cause of anal incontinence is persistent anatomical sphincter disruption rather than pudendal nerve damage

=======================

AH updated 11 April 2007

19 Comments

  1. Mehwish

    My search for a birth after a 3rd degree tear has brought me here( it rhymes )

    I am only 28 and have in my life only experienced instrumental deliveries. My first was at 21 when I lost my mucous plug and I was somehow induced against my will and knowledge. I was in false labour (oxytocin) for a total of 12 hours. There was pain but no urge whatsoever of pushing! And my birth was completed by a registrar yanking my baby out with the help of episiotomies and then a ventouse.

    Only 15 months on, and I was in the delivery suite with my 2nd , only this time I was with a midwife I pray no pregnant woman has! I was clueless because last time I was made to do things my body was not feeling,like labour ,contractions,and the pushing urge. However when labour did intensify I looked at the midwife and asked her what to do ,I was only 23 and I would love some moral support or talking to. She exchanged no speech with me and only muttered ‘do what your body tells you to’. That was all! I had severe back pain due to the contractions and decided to deliver whilst standing. I looked again behind for some assurance, she did not speak yet again and I begged her to catch my baby, to which she said I have never missed. I only took entinox and some sips of ice cold water. And had 3 very strong pushes and the next thing I saw my baby was on the floor!! She somehow managed to escape when few other members of the staff came in. Luckily for me my baby was seen by a pedtritician then and there who comforted me.

    Later I found myself separated from my baby for 2 hours only to add to my misery that I also suffered a third degree tear. I know this could have been there even if I had the nicest midwife,however some instructions ,when to push , breath baby in would be very helpful. My repair work was very good infact I preferred my self much better down there than I did after the episiotomies with my 1st birth! Moving on,I made a complaint to the treatment given to me by this certain midwife which was brushed off stating the baby fall incident happened due to fluid splashes to the midwife and that was end of.

    In 2011 ,at 27 I was pregnant with my 3rd nobody mentioned to me that due to my previous tear I ‘could’ have complications delivering vaginally or work with me for a plan to suit my delivery this time.
    So fate decided for me and gave me a transverse breech baby at 38 weeks which no sane being was willing to deliver for me vaginally. I had a c section as went in to labour at 38 weeks whilst baby was still transverse.

    Now 2013 I am having my 4th baby ,everyone I have spoken to ,independent midwives, gynaecologists,obstetrician have impulsively favoured a section! Having experienced both vaginal and a c section…. I would personally opt for a vaginal, I’m not scared of labour or giving birth but I don’t want to live with a colostomy bag either. But I am thinking what if I end up with a midwife who offers me no support at birth? Motherhood and previous births have taught me so much I feel I am best to decide for myself and take control of my body! I’m thinking of going all radical this time and having a home birth,hiring a birthing pool and even hire a private midwife ,if not a jet!!!

    But an independent gynaecologist has asked me to opt for an epidural (which is probably going to be at the hosp ) so I don’t have sudden strong urges of pushing inorder to avoid another tear ,would the midwives Concur with this?

    Seeking words of advice from the compassionate midwives.

    Mash Hampshire

    Reply
  2. vicky Hull

    I gave birth two and a half years ago. I ended up in theatre having a episiotomy and a forceps delivery resulting in a third degree catoagory B tear.
    Im now 25weeks pregnant and petrified of it happening again.
    At my follow up consultant appointment post delivery he assured me that it wouldnt happen again…I don’t believe him.
    Sex has been just bearable and I srill suffer with sore scar tissue and im now struggling with incontinence and iritable bowel syndrome which i think is caused by my repair and everything has dropped down there.
    I cant bare the thought that I will be forced a natural delivery and my problems will get worse.
    I have to wait til 19 dec for my consultants appointment to find out what they want to do with me.
    Any advise greatly appreciated. Midwifes appointmenta are too few and far between second time round.

    Reply
  3. Bronwyn Drysdale

    I yesterday provided care for a woman in labour at term who had a history 2 1/2 yrs ago with a vaginal birth and a third degree tear. She had no symptoms post birth with incontinence of bladder or bowel. She had been seen in an obstetric clinic in pregnancy for a one off consult and told that with a vaginal birth, close monitoring in second stage, regarding the need to do an episiotomy mediolateral was required. When I came on she was in active labour having been 3 cm dilated with a high head -3 station i.e.bobbing and not engaged.She was keen to move around and was planning on using the gas if she needed it. A CTG had been placed due to the intermittent monitoring picking up no variability in heart rate over the first half hour of her care. She gravitated to hands and knees instinctively, the CTG stayed on and we worked together with her wonderful support to once her waters broke, get her breathing slowly and softly once she had the irresistible urge to push. I had been told by the registrar Obstetrician going off at 8am to mark her perineum with a medical pen, at 8 o’clock, so that as she stretched up I could follow that line with an episiotomy as she crowned her baby, which would ensure the cut was mediolateral not too close to her anal sphincter.Her baby was born slowly, she breathed him out with such control and I did use some pressure/ flexion on the perineum to help slow the advancement of the head. The perineum was stretching beautifully and with no signs of tearing ( no keyhole tear near the anus) at the full crowning it did tear but cleanly and afterwards it was a second degree simple to suture tear with no anal sphincter damage. She felt really pleased with her birth, and I do too, but the registrar on the day shift came up to me afterwards and said she would have done the episiotomy and questioned why I didn’t. She (the Dr wasn’t in the birth room but my second midwife was and she was very supportive of my management). I will be following up this women, in the community over the next four weeks and may even ask permission to contact her at six months and 1 year post birth, as this seems such a grey area of research and I do wonder if this obstetric discussion and preference for speculative episiotomy rather than a tear again following a well repaired third degree tear and functional pelvic floor is really that research based. Interested in midwives and women’s responses

    Reply
  4. michelle richardson

    i had baby number 3 and was over due by bout week and had a 3 degree tear not had follow up on it would like baby number 4 but very worried if tear again with no help and after care

    Reply
  5. Marisa

    Hello,
    Am about 21 weeks pregnant with second child… I had a normal delivery with my first… Spent most of my labour in the bath, then gave birth on the bed, slightly sitting up. Only had gas & air. Ended up with a 3b tear and had to have a spinal and get stitched up in theatre.
    Had physio afterwards… Had some tender scar tissue, but all is OK down there now. It did take quite a while to heal and feel normal down below. Haven’t had any real issues with incontinence, but sneezing can be an issue if I have a full bladder.
    Have appointment with consultant next month… I feel quite apprehensive about giving birth again and tearing again. Could this happen? The thought of reopening everything and making things worse is scary! Would a c section be offered?

    Any advice would be appreciated, thank you

    Reply
    • nabila

      Hi marissa. How did everything go for you and what did you opt for in the end? X

      Reply
  6. nabila

    Hi i dont know if this page is still in use or not. Im reallllly after some advice as i am very stuck.
    Iv had 3 vaginal deliveries. 2nd one i got a 2nd degree tear but midwife was hands on and stopped me tearing as she said she had to hold it in place because she could see it tearing….3rd pregnancy i was left to it …midwife didnt even touch me at all and baby flew out at a whooping 8.11lb.the previous 2 babies were 7lb and 7lb.3oz.
    Frst child born dec 2009…2nd child born jan 2011…3rd child born sept 2012….and baby number 4 due nov 2014.iv had no real concerns about the tear….but i do feel discomfort when sitting on hard things such as a bike…also it is uncomfrtable for me and hubby wilst we are intimate.
    I have been.given the choice of an elective section…and everybody i meet says i should go for a section…but with the little kids i think it would be difficult.
    Iv been told by a midwife that because the pregnancy is close after the tear it might be sensitive and may tear again…my babies seem to be getting bigger…i didnt ave any intervention when the 3rd degree happend. So is it a risk i should take? Can u suggest anything at all…and also is it normal to still feel discomfort during sex…sitting on a bike or going down steps on my bum (when playing with the kids) and also when there is any pressure.
    Im very scared of the section and looovvveee my natural births….but im also scared of making my self worse off and making my scar more sore.
    Any advice would be lovely. Thank you in advance x

    Reply
    • Margaret

      Hi Nabila
      I’ll repost on the ukmidwifery list as many midwives access that list and might be able to help.

      Reply
  7. Mama

    Hi all,

    I had 3rd degree tear April 2013 in Ireland, giving birth to my son. Second year coming and I am still in so much pain…including; burning feeling on the scar, occasional leakage, can’t control wind, I am so worried about future birth. I broke up with my boyfriend and I do not feel like dating anyone ever, still in shock and pain. The feeling is so irritating every single minute. I have followed up physiotherapy at the hospital but nothing helped.

    I would like to thank people who commented on their 3rd degree tear experience, it made a difference on my psychology.

    Thanks

    Ma

    Reply
  8. nurul

    Hello everyone,

    I had a 3rd degreeA tear giving birth to my first in April2014. My 2nd is due in Sept2015. I have been recommended c-section for my next baby.
    The first birth, I was strapped to the delivery bed with fetal heart monitor attached and I couldn’t move around much. Before I knew it, the midwife said my baby’s head already crowned and I had to push. I was repaired in theatre with a spinal, after a month I still have slight swelling in the repair site but I believe I heal well. I still could feel the scar now if I squat but no incontinence problem, just a little when I sneeze with a full bladder. The OB suggrecommended c-section for the next one but I’m still undecided. I had bowel incontinence the first few days after delivery but thankfully no more after that. I would like to deliver normally but I’m afraid of another bad tear.

    Reply
    • Nicky Grace

      Hi Nurul, thank you for sharing your experience with us. I’m sorry you had such a difficult experience. There is some research evidence supporting upright birth positions as protective against tears and definitely a 3rd degree tear is not inevitable with a 2nd baby.. Ideally you will discuss all the options with your care providers and make a decision that is right for you. A caesarean section will protect you against a third degree tear, but it carries its own risks so it’s a matter of weighing up everything on an individual basis. Do you have the support of a midwife? I’m guessing you are in the USA? Best wishes Nicky

      Reply
    • Amanda

      I had a second degree tear with my first baby and a third degree tear with my second baby. My midwives and the nurses at the hospital that attended to my tear are totally confident that I can birth naturally again. They are recommending a water birth as it is supposed to be effective at relaxing tissues and minimizing tears. I highly recommend finding good midwives to support you!

      Reply
  9. Suzi

    Hi all,

    I’m in the UK and suffered a third degree with my first in January (he was 9lbs 1oz).

    After a 1st stage at home with paracetamol and a tens machine, we arrived in hospital and I was 8cm. Unfortunately 2nd stage slowed down somewhat and after trying a few different positions for over 2hrs (all fours on the bed, on my side and on a birthing stool), there was little progress (they could see his head but it wasn’t moving down quick enough).

    The doctor was called in and I was given a side episiotomy and he attempted to deliver by ventouse. On the third pull, the cap came off and so he had to resort to forceps. I was then taken to theatre about 30 mins after delivering for a repair under spinal.

    It was the almost the worst outcome that I had wanted to avoid but I had my beautiful baby at least. Although I had incontinence issues a couple of times in the first week of being discharged (prob due to the laxatives along with very weak pelvic floor and the repair), TOUCH WOOD I’ve been pleasantly surprised by my recovery.

    A few points I’d like to mention….

    – I was very lucky to have 2 great, supportive midwives during delivery, but this didn’t prevent the tear.

    – I also massaged my perenium daily for the last 3 weeks or so, and this didn’t prevent the tear.

    – I knew the baby was growing big throughout the pregnancy (which we know is a risk factor). I did however, want a vaginal birth if possible.

    – In the UK, between 7% & 8% of women have a major (3rd or 4th degree) tear during delivery. This has risen in recent years from what was 2%.

    – After your first vaginal birth, the risk of having a major tear normally drops to 2%. For those who were unlucky enough to have it the first time, that risk STAYS the same for subsequent vaginal births.

    I do plan to have another (and I know that I’ll be referred to the consultant for discussion next time around due to my history). It’s clear that the consultant I saw upon discharge (who I might add was a man), thinks that there should be no reason to have an elective section in future. I am a little suspicious that this may be due to the increased cost (although I still had to have almost the same team in theatre for the repairs!). Especially as this is the NHS I’m referring to.

    I will make a conscious effort to go into the next pregnancy with an open mind – factors such as the baby size could be different next time around. I don’t really want major abdominal surgery but I am certainly not going to discount it until I have a chance to be presented with some facts and can see how the pregnancy progresses.

    I would definitely rather deal with a surgical recovery than the possibility of further, extensive trauma to the same area (which now has 2 sets of scar tissue which will not be as stretchy!). I know for certain that i would be in a much darker place if I had to deal with issues such as incontinence, painful sex, nerve damage etc for the rest of my life.

    Yes – it’s just a risk factor and no one knows the outcome; which is why I plan to assess all the information I have in the next pregnancy and go with my gut. I think that’s all we can do….

    Reply
    • Nicky Grace

      Hi Suzi
      thank you for sharing your story. I’m sorry that you had a third degree tear but glad you made such a good recovery. As with so many things in childbirth, it is very difficult to make decisions as there are so many unpredictable factors … you are quite right that the latest report from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists suggests a 7 per cent (ish) risk of a severe tear next time – I am very surprised by this and can’t quite understand it. The risk is higher with episiotomy, forceps and ventouse (all of which you experienced and which are more common with your first baby) and as these are less common with a second baby I’m not sure what is going on with that statistic. I’ve never known a previous scar cause a problem … I’m not sure that anyone really knows. BUT to be positive, we do know that the less intervention the better (possibly consider whether it might be helpful to avoid routine VEs, and no time limits or coached pushing?), and that upright positions can be protective. If you do decide to go ahead with a vaginal birth, maybe have a discussion with your midwife about how to have an empowering and healing second birth.

      Reply
    • Michala

      Hi there,

      I had a very similar experience to you! I was wondering if you have since had baby #2 and what you decided to do? I am currently pregnant (very close together babies) with number 2 and really stuck on what way to birth; natural vs elective.. any advice would be amazing 🙂 i’m weighing up all options 🙂

      Thanks,
      Michala

      Reply
  10. Sophie

    I’m due in 5 days. I’m having a bit of a time so looking for advice.
    I had my first child four years ago and knew I had stitches but wasn’t made aware that they were very extensive until they checked my notes this time. I had laboured for days and at length they broke my waters and gave me an epidural as she was now overdue and they had to, I don’t know push all sorts of drugs in to me? Anyway they stitched me then and there.
    Between that and this pregnancy I have suffered a few miscarriages but one led to be loosing a lot of blood. It turned out the baby was stuck. There were not any rooms free so I was taken to a side room and it was pulled out I was sent home. I did mention severe pain at the time but it was dismissed and it wasn’t until I went to the doctor later that week that he confirmed a broken coccyx.
    My midwife did get an appointment to see if I needed to be consultant led but the consultant seemed unbothered entirely and that was that.
    I haven’t been offered a c section but I couldn’t ask at my 38 week appointment as my midwife was on holiday and the person covering her didn’t turn up. I have mentioned sex and going to the toilet (pretty constant and terrible piles) since the birth of my first and especially after the last miscarriage are painful but it’s gone unchecked.
    What do I do?

    Reply
  11. Rima B

    Hello, I had a 3rd degree tear with my first baby. Had delivery in birthing centre in the pool. I had long history of thrush and was afraid my tissues would be quite dry and not flexible, so I did a lot of preparation for birth – lots of pelvic floor exercises and perennial massages and stretches. However, my labour was progressing very quickly (gave birth in 6 hours after first contractions) and my midwifes were asking to push very gently but I couldn’t control it at all. Now 21 weeks pregnant, had a scan for my rectum muscles to see if I could have home birth. Apparently one of my sphincter muscles is not healed completely and is C shape. I never had any symptoms. They suggest c section which I think is the easiest choose for them. However, my placenta is in the front and I would not like to cut trough it as I feel it is more risky than just trying to find a way to deliver vaginally. Any advice?

    Reply
    • Nicky Grace

      I am sorry for my late reply to your question. I think you need some individual advice but on the face of it, it does seem strange to advise you to have major abdominal surgery with associated risks, in order to avoid a theoretical risk of sphincter damage – many women do not sustain a further third degree tear with the second baby.

      Reply
  12. Katie E

    Hi, I’m not sure if this is still active but reading through it has already been very helpful.

    Im 26 weeks pregnant with our second baby. The first was born in Feb 2021, I ended up with a 3rd degree tear (3A) and 2 second degree tears. I’ve seen the consultant at our hospital (UHW) who suggested I still try for a vaginal birth but I also had to agree that I understood that there is a chance that I will end up incontinent if it happens again. I came out of the appointment a bit shocked and aim to go to my final appointment with her at 36 weeks with some informed questions to ask.

    I’m trying to understand my main reason for tearing so badly last time and if any of it is likely to be repeated and / or avoided.

    Our daughter was born 2 weeks overdue at 8lbs 10oz, narrowly avoiding an induction. I had experienced strong but irregular contractions for at least 5 hours before I ended up going into hospital. They still weren’t regular when I went in but they were strong enough to have me doubled over.
    I was checked over and found to be 3.5cms dilated so was able to stay in the midwife led section of the hospital. Things progressed quickly, my midwife advised against any pain killers – inc. tens machine as it was ‘too early to fully appreciate the effects’. A short amount if time passed and I asked for another form of painkiller which was kindly denied and then a few more minutes and I asked for an epidural, at which point the midwife suggested she fill the birthing pool and see how that goes instead. I dutifully waited for pool to fill, labouring into my back by now (I believe this was transition). I climbed into the pool and within 2 minutes of being in there my body just started pushing, completely involuntarily. My partner called the midwife back in who seemed surprised and asked that I get out the pool so she can have a look as it was ‘too soon for me to be pushing’. She confirmed she could see the head and immediately got me some gas and air.

    She said she was going to burst the waters (they were bulging) and when she’d done that she was whispering to her co-worker and they said they had to get the baby out quickly as there was meconium in the waters so rushed me upstairs to the obstetrician ward and forced me to push as hard as I could to get her out quickly. I was on my back, knees up.

    From arriving at the hospital to having her in my arms was 3.5 hours. I believe I was pushing for about 20 mins of that.

    There was some blood loss but not enough to require any transfusion. Baby has extremely happy with an apgar of 9 and then 10 on the following check. I have no idea how bad the mec in the waters was.

    I was taken away immediately to be stitched up in surgery for an hour after with a spinal. Healed well, I think (although come to think of it I do have slight issues with getting clean after a movement. I should probably have that looked at.)

    I’m very keen to avoid a similar experience and have been researching all I can for ways to help. Obviously if I have to get the baby out quickly for its safety then my bits will have to be sacrificed.

    How common is permanent incontinence after several 3rd degree tears? Do you think that the reason I tore was because I was pushing her out quickly or because of my fairly quick natural labour? Would I be allowed to be on all fours if a similar occurrence happens this time round? Am I right to think an episiotomy probably wont help matters and potentially make them worse? Why is it that they’re advised if that is the case?

    Many of the comments above suggest using an experienced midwife however, I feel like you’re just allocated who ever is available here (Wales, UK)? Especially if you’re a fast birther. I love the idea of having a slow, holistic, calm birth at home or in a birth centre but I also don’t want to be taken away in an ambulance for surgery if the same happens again.

    As you can probably tell I’m going in circles with this and would love some professional input.

    Thank you!

    Katie, Cardiff

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