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Postpartum care of the perineum
Author(s) -
Fitzpatrick Myra,
O'Herlihy Colm
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
the obstetrician and gynaecologist
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1744-4667
pISSN - 1467-2561
DOI - 10.1576/toag.9.3.164.27336
Subject(s) - perineum , medicine , urinary incontinence , pelvic floor , obstetrics and gynaecology , anal sphincter , obstetrics , vaginal delivery , gynecology , nursing , pregnancy , surgery , genetics , biology
Key content• Vaginal birth is traumatic to the pelvic floor and perineum. • Faecal incontinence, perineal pain, urinary incontinence and dyspareunia can all be long‐term effects of such damage. • Recognition and management of perineal trauma postpartum is vital. • Women rarely volunteer information regarding faecal incontinence and dyspareunia. • A dedicated pelvic floor clinic may be the most appropriate setting in which to care for women who are affected.Learning objectives• To learn about the guidelines in place for the repair of perineal trauma following delivery. • To recognise that anal sphincter damage may require follow‐up and appropriate investigation. • To learn that direct questioning of women about dyspareunia and faecal incontinence is necessary to elicit information.Ethical issues• Is it the responsibility of women to present with their problems or should nursing and medical staff look for them? • Financial constraints inappropriately limit the provision of small, highly focused clinics.Please cite this article as: Fitzpatrick M, O'Herlihy C, Postpartum care of the perineum. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2007;9:164–170.