Open AccessThe effect of a normal vaginal delivery on anal function
Author(s) -
Rieger Nicholas,
Schloithe Ann,
Saccone Gino,
Wattchow David
Publication year - 1997
Publication title -
acta obstetricia et gynecologica scandinavica
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.401
H-Index - 102
eISSN - 1600-0412
pISSN - 0001-6349
DOI - 10.3109/00016349709024345
Subject(s) - medicine , vaginal delivery , obstetrics , vagina , gynecology , pregnancy , surgery , genetics , biology
Background . To determine the effect of an uncomplicated vaginal delivery on anal sphincter function in primiparous women. Methods . In a prospective study, anal manometry was performed prenatally and at 4‐6 weeks postnatally in 18 primiparous women (11 undergoing vaginal delivery; seven having Cesarean section). No patient had any evidence of anal sphincter damage after delivery as determined by anal ultrasound and pudendal nerve terminal motor latency. Results . Vaginal delivery was associated with a significant reduction in the squeeze pressure (SP: prenatal 269 cm H 2 O vs postnatal 204 cm H 2 O; p =0.004) but not the resting pressure (RP: prenatal 96 cm H 2 O vs postnatal 86 cm H 2 O; p =0.075). Cesarean section was not associated with any significant change in anal pressures. Conclusion . A normal vaginal delivery with no evidence of sphincter injury was associated with a significant effect on anal function when measured 4‐6 weeks postnatally.