Childbirth and the pelvic floor: “the gynaecological consequences”

Perineal trauma can effect up to 85% of women after vaginal delivery. The consequences of this include perineal pain and dyspareunia lasting up to 12 months postnatally. Nulliparity and the use of forceps have been identified as the major risk factors along with occipito-posterior position, macrosomia and episiotomy as secondary factors. The role of selective mediolateral episiotomy and methods of perineal repair are discussed.