Care for perineal tears in vaginal delivery: An update for midwife

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study will be to review several studies regarding the repair or treatment of perineal tears after vaginal delivery. This is expected to be an update for a midwife in daily caring.

Methods: Two electronic databases (PubMed and Sciencedirect) were searched to locate relevant literature about perineal tears/wound/laceration/trauma that is published in 2016-2021. 124 Pubmed articles and 452 ScienceDirect articles filtered successfully. The articles that have been obtained will be evaluated based on the inclusion criteria in this study. We summarize place and date, objective, design, samples, the measurement used, and research results.

Results: 9 articles were found that matched the inclusion criteria. Three articles examined the effect of the type of suture on perineal pain, and another 6 discussed therapy to reduce the adverse effects of perineal tears. The therapies used are far-infrared radiation therapy, capacitive-resistive radiofrequency therapy, pelvic floor muscle training in early postpartum, cold therapy, and treatment with TheresienOl (natural oil).

Conclusion: Sutures and technique/suturing second-degree perineal tears or a postpartum episiotomy can affect perineal pain. Cold gel pad therapy and treatment with natural oil on perineal wounds can affect perineal pain and wound healing.

Keywords: Perineal tears; Repair; Review; Therapy.