Open Access Editorial

Preventing Anal Sphincter Tears During Delivery. An Update from Scandinavia

Jouko Pirhonen*

University Hospital of North Norway, Norway

Corresponding Author

Received Date: November 13, 2018;  Published Date: November 26, 2018

Abstract

A common outcome of vaginal delivery is perineal trauma. The most serious among these injuries are third- and fourthdegree lacerations or obstetric anal sphincter injuries. Studies have reported that 30–50% of women with these lacerations experience anal incontinence. Symptoms of anal incontinence may affect a woman’s social, psychological, and sexual life; moreover, a previous anal sphincter injury can increase the risk of recurrence in subsequent deliveries. Therefore, it is important to prevent these injuries.

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