Increase In Birth Tears

Increase In Birth Tears

 

There has been another an increase in birth tears meaning that women are being unnecessarily harmed in childbirth. Serious perineal tears in childbirth in England have had a 16% rise reported between 2021 and 2024.

Eight or nine in ten women (85%) of women have a tear during childbirth. Tears usually occur in the perineum, which is the area between the vagina and the anus (your bottom).

First degree tear

These are small, involving the skin only, they usually heal naturally. Most women do not require stitches.

Second degree tear

These are slightly deeper, affecting the perineal muscles as well as the skin. All second degree tears require stitches.

For some women (2-6%) the tear may be more extensive, involving the muscle around the anus (the anal sphincters) and / or the lining of your bottom

Third degree tear

A third degree tear is a tear through the perineal muscles and into the ring-shaped muscle that surrounds the anus (anal sphincter).

Fourth degree tear

A fourth degree tear goes through the anal sphincter and into the anus

 

Severe tears can lead to long-term complications, including urinary and anal incontinence and painful sex. Psychological impacts are also a concern, with women reporting low confidence and embarrassment.

There is a significant need to stop this kind of harm happening so why is it not being done?