3rd Degree Tears In Childbirth - Why Do They Happen And What Can You Do?

In addition to this you may have many questions running through your mind, such as why did you experience a 3rd degree tear, could it have been prevented, and what, if any, action can you take? This article explores all of these questions to try and provide you with some helpful answers to help you to better understand your injury.

What Is A 3rd Degree Tear?

A vaginal tear can occur quite naturally during child birth. It can be caused by the size of the baby and if only a first or second degree tear occurs, there are normally no long term complications for the mother. However, third or fourth degree tears can cause significant problems.

A third degree tear involves the vaginal tissue, perineal skin, and perineal muscles that extend into the anal sphincter although the rectal mucosa remains intact.

Not only can this amount to significant pain whilst recovering from a 3rd Degree Tear, but it can also lead to other complications, including pain during sexual intercourse and pain or discomfort on visiting the toilet. If you are experiencing these problems this is a perfectly normal consequence of a 3rd degree tear.

How Does A 3rd Degree Tear Occur?

If it is clear that your baby is too large to be born without causing a tear your medical team should consider carrying out an episiotomy, ie a surgically performed cut to ensure your baby can come out without causing you to tear. If they do not take this action and you tear 'naturally' there is uncertainty both in terms of the size of the tear, but also in terms of how deep the tear will be. It is this natural 3rd degree tear that can cause serious pain and discomfort.

What Are The Treatment Options For A 3rd Degree Tear?

There are various treatments available to help you with the pain experienced from a 3rd degree tear, including:

* Antibiotics (to reduce the chances of infection as the stitches to repair the tear are likely to be very close to the anus.

* Pain relief.

* Laxatives (to make it more comfortable when you open your bowels.

In addition you will need to keep the area around the tear clean. Whilst you are in extreme discomfort you are likely to be on a drip for fluids and a catheter will be used until you are fit to walk to the toilet.

You should still be able to breastfeed during this period.

What Is The Likely Outcome?

Many people will make a full recovery from a 3rd degree tear although it can take weeks or even months for this to happen.

What Other Action Can You Take Following A 3rd Degree Tear?

If there was evidence that you were going to suffer a vaginal tear but no action was taken to prevent it you may be entitled to claim compensation for medical negligence. You should find a specialist medical negligence solicitor who can offer you a free initial assessment of your claim.