Routine vs no episiotomy in primigravida: a pilot RCT on perineal injury and pelvic floor dysfunction
Abstract
Background: The present study compared the effect of ‘routine-episiotomy’ vs ‘no-episiotomy’ on perineal injury and pelvic floor function during normal vaginal delivery in primigravida. Methods: This open-label RCT allocated women in the second stage of labour to routine mediolateral episiotomy or no-episiotomy (1:1) using concealed computer-generated randomisation. Episiotomy was avoided in the no-episiotomy group unless instrumental delivery was required for maternal or foetal reasons. Perineal trauma, suturing characteristics, pain, pelvic-floor function, urinary and anal incontinence were assessed at 24 hours, 36 hours, and 3 months postpartum. Pre and post-episiotomy biomarkers assessed the tissue-level injury. Analyses were conducted in STATA with significance at p
Fields of Study & Subjects
Pelvic floor disorders treatments
Maternal and Perinatal Health Interventions
Pregnancy-related medical research
Publication details
- Journal / source
- International Journal of Reproduction Contraception Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Volume
- 15
- Issue
- 3
- Pages
- 994–1003
- Publication date
- 25 February 2026
- Language
- EN