Episiotomy risks

Episiotomy recovery is uncomfortable. Sometimes the incision is more extensive than a natural tear would have been. Infection is possible. For some, an episiotomy causes pain during sex in the months after delivery.

A midline episiotomy puts you at risk of fourth-degree vaginal tearing. This type of tearing extends through the anal sphincter and into the mucous membrane that lines the rectum. Fecal incontinence could result.