Reasons for routine episiotomy: A mixed-methods study in a large maternity hospital in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

First documented in 1741, the practice of episiotomy substantially increased worldwide during the 20th century. However, research shows that episiotomy is not effective in reducing severe perineal trauma and may be harmful. Using a mixed-methods approach, we conducted a study in 2013–14 on why obstetricians and midwives in a large maternity hospital in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, still do routine episiotomies. The study included the extent of the practice, based on medical records; a retrospective analysis of the delivery notes of a random sample of 365 patients; and 22 in-depth interviews with obstetricians, midwives and recently delivered women.

Source: Reproductive Health Matters - July 28, 2015 Category: Global & Universal Authors: Clémence Schantz, Kruy Leang Sim, Ek Meng Ly, Hubert Barennes, So Sudaroth, Sophie Goyet Tags: FEATURE Source Type: research