Episiotomy: does it have to hurt so much afterwards?

Episiotomy is one of the commonest surgical procedures in the UK. Many women suffer pain for several days sometimes weeks afterwards and dyspareunia may be a problem. Absorbable suture materials appear to be preferable to non-absorbable ones. Infiltrating the perineum with normal saline before suturing may help reduce postpartum perineal pain. Omitting sutures just below the skin surface may cause less pain. More research is needed. The skill of the operator seems to be a factor. Midwives need to evaluate their practice in repairing the perineum