Episiotomy

Episiotomy, also known as perineotomy, is a surgical incision of the perineum and the posterior vaginal wall, generally performed by an obstetrician. It is usually done during the second stage of labor to quickly enlarge the vaginal opening and allow the baby to pass through. The incision can run from the posterior midline of the vulva straight toward the anus or at an angle to the right or left, is performed under local anesthetic, and is sutured after delivery.