23/11/2025
What actually is an episiotomy? ✂️
I sat down with the beautiful midwife Katie from to chat about what it is, when it might be needed, and how to recover well afterwards.
An episiotomy is a small cut made in the perineum (the area between the va**na and a**s) during birth to help make more space for baby — usually if there are concerns about baby’s heart rate, the perineum isn’t stretching well, or if instruments like forceps are needed.
While sometimes necessary, research shows that perineal preparation from 34 weeks and learning to coordinate your pelvic floor can help reduce the need for one.
If you do have an episiotomy, recovery is usually similar to healing from a tear — gentle hygiene, rest, ice, and pelvic floor relaxation work all help.
Most women recover well within a few weeks, but follow-up with a midwife and women’s health physio is key 🤍