Episiotomy

Description:
Just before the baby is born and while the woman is awake and pain-free (local anesthesia), the obstetrician makes an incision at the bottom of the vaginal opening. This enlarges the vaginal opening to prevent vaginal tears as the baby's head is delivered. The incision is stitched (sutured) closed after the baby and placenta have been delivered.

Indications:
An episiotomy is done to enlarge the vaginal opening to prevent tearing during birth.

What to Expect After:
An episiotomy usually heals without problems. It prevents tears, which may take longer to heal than the surgical incision. Also, it is thought that the surgery helps prevent vaginal stretching later in life.

Convalescence:
Healing is without complications. Normal activities can be resumed shortly after birth. Proper hygiene and avoidance of constipation is advised (if possible). The stitches (sutures) will be absorbed by the body and do not need to be removed. Pain and discomfort can be relieved with warm baths and medications.

Risks:
Risks for any anesthesia are:

Risks for any surgery are:



Cost:
The cost of any surgery varies significantly between surgeons, medical facilities, and regions of the country. More extensive surgery will require more intensive and expensive treatment.

Surgery charges can be separated into five parts: 1) the surgeon's fee, 2) the anesthesiologist's fee, 3) the hospital charges, which include nursing care and the operating room, 4) the medications, and 5) additional charges.

Since this procedure is done while the woman is in labor, there may not be any extra anesthetic or medication given. Situations vary depending on the woman's desires and the length of time she is in labor.

1. Surgeon's fee: variable
2. Anesthesiologist's fee: averages $350 to $400 per hour
3. Hospital charges: basic rate averages $1,500 to $1,800 per day (more for the intensive care unit (ICU) or private rooms)
4. Medication charges: $200 to $400
5. Additional charges: assisting surgeon, treatment of complications, diagnostic procedures (such as blood or Xray exams), medical supplies, or equipment use.

Insurance coverage for surgery expenses depends on many factors and should be explored for each individual instance.