Preventing Anal Sphincter Tears During Delivery. An Update from Scandinavia

A common outcome of vaginal delivery is perineal trauma. The most serious among these injuries are thirdand fourthdegree lacerations or obstetric anal sphincter injuries. Studies have reported that 30–50% of women with these lacerations experience anal incontinence. Symptoms of anal incontinence may affect a woman’s social, psychological, and sexual life; moreover, a previous anal sphincter injury can increase the risk of recurrence in subsequent deliveries. Therefore, it is important to prevent these injuries.