A GP guide to higher-degree perineal tears

GPs have an important role to play in minimising the impact of severe perineal tears on women’s lives by providing appropriate care, reassurance and support
Associate Professor Emmanuel Karantanis

Birth is a natural process, and many women give birth without medical intervention.

However, sometimes complications, such as severe (third- or fourth-degree) perineal tears may occur, although the likelihood of these occurring is low.

A perineal tear is any injury to the perineum — the area between the vagina and anus.

Such tears are common during vaginal births, and most do not involve significant tissue disruption.