J Reprod Med
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Multicenter Study
Risk factors for third-degree perineal tears in vaginal delivery, with an analysis of episiotomy types.
To determine the risk factors for third-degree perineal tears during vaginal delivery and to investigate the relation between different types of episiotomy and the occurrence of such tears. ⋯ We found several risk factors for third-degree perineal tears. The use of midline episiotomy was associated especially with an increased risk of severe anal sphincter tears. To prevent women from long-term sequelae due to third-degree perineal tears, avoidable risk factors should be minimized whenever possible.