Pelvic floor symptoms after second-degree tear or episiotomy and the consequences of healing complications: long-term follow-up after the REPAIR study.
Am J Obstet GynecolMay 21, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchObstetrics & Gynecology
Kathrine Perslev, Niels Klarskov, Thomas Bergholt et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial followed 442 women with second-degree perineal tears or episiotomies to assess long-term pelvic floor symptoms. It found that 12% experienced wound complications, which were associated with higher rates of pelvic floor symptoms, particularly in sexual function and prolapse, 9 to 12 months postpartum.
Key findings
- 12% of women experienced clinically relevant wound complications after second-degree tears or episiotomy.
- Women with wound complications reported higher rates of pelvic floor symptoms, especially related to sexual function.
- Diagnostic prolapse was more frequent in women with wound complications during clinical examination.
Why it matters
Understanding the long-term consequences of wound complications can inform clinicians about the potential for persistent pelvic floor symptoms, guiding follow-up care and preventive strategies in postpartum women.