A episiotomia como prática rotineira na atenção ao parto

Abstract

An episiotomy is an obstetric procedure that aims to prevent lacerations in the region by means of a surgical incision in the perineum, in addition to accelerating the expulsive delivery period. It is an ancient technique and has long been practiced in medicine, but evidence has now been found to prove the harm caused by the episiotomy. Despite this, the incidence in Brazil and in other Latin American countries is still high and even trivialized, since the use of the technique is performed routinely in normal deliveries. This present study constitutes a critical essay that aims to discuss the subject through historical observation, dissemination of the procedure in the obstetric environment, current medical aspects, risk factor and clinical variables, as well as the complications caused in the puerperium. Through discussions it is possible to re-evaluate the criteria and stimulate selective use or even reduce incidence.