Third and fourth degree perineal tears are an uncommon but potentially devastating complication of vaginal childbirth. While not all such tears can be prevented, many can.
When they do occur, early identification, surgical repair, and support are all key to recovery.
With the release this month of the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care’s Third and Fourth Degree Perineal Tear Clinical Care Standard, experts are seeking to reduce the risk of these tears and to improve care for women who do experience them.