ABSTRACT
Perineal trauma resulting from childbirth remains a common problem ( 2 ) that causes a significant increase in maternal morbidity and may also have devastating effects on family life and sexual relationships ( 3 ). More than 85% of women sustain perineal trauma after childbirth ( 4 ), and up to two-thirds need suturing ( 2 ). Perineal pain and discomfort affect up to 42% of women at 10 days postpartum and in 10% of women these problems persist at 18 months following childbirth ( 5 ). Moreover, up to 58% of women experience superficial dyspareunia at three months postpartum ( 6 ).
