ABSTRACT
Alternating positions of the woman during labour may prevent perineal damage (e.g. kneeling, a supported squat or all fours). Physiological pushing and an upright position may allow the presenting part to descend and stretch the perineum gently, thus thinning it out gradually. Fetal distress can sometimes be rectified by change of maternal position and may prevent a ventouse or forceps delivery. A constant caring companion reduces the incidence of episiotomy and
Episiotomy is a surgical incision of the perineum made to increase the diameter of the vulval outlet during childbirth.
