The 10 Most Common Childbirth Questions Answered

Photo by: Kelly

5. How cant I prevent tearing?

Tearing is common in first-time vaginal births but most women get superficial tears, not the kind that tear through muscle. Stitches are sometimes required and will fall out on their own. The likelihood of tearing can be influenced by genetics, size of the baby or baby's head, positioning for pushing, speed of second stage labor and skills of the practitioner and whether or not an epidural was used. ... more 

Photo by: Kelly

5. How cant I prevent tearing?

Tearing is common in first-time vaginal births but most women get superficial tears, not the kind that tear through muscle. Stitches are sometimes required and will fall out on their own. The likelihood of tearing can be influenced by genetics, size of the baby or baby's head, positioning for pushing, speed of second stage labor and skills of the practitioner and whether or not an epidural was used. To minimize tearing, go with a doctor or midwife who is comfortable with you pushing in an upright position, which may help reduce pressure on the perineum, and who has a low episiotomy rate. Staying active, fit, eating well and doing kegel exercises throughout pregnancy may help, too.
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