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Childbirth Related Labial Trauma Management in the UK: A Brief Report
Julia Sanders1, Nadia Hikary-Bhal2, Emily Brace3
1Professor of Nursing and Midwifery at Cardiff University and Cardiff and Vale Health Board;.
Midwifery
|March 8, 2021
Summary
Labial trauma affects nearly half of vaginal births, with inconsistent clinical practices for management. Further research is needed to establish evidence-based guidelines for treating this common childbirth injury.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Women's Health
- Perinatal Care
Background:
- Labial trauma is a frequent complication of vaginal childbirth, affecting up to 49% of individuals.
- Unlike perineal trauma, labial trauma lacks standardized classification and evidence-based management guidelines.
- Clinical practice for labial trauma varies, with some practitioners opting for suturing and others for secondary intention healing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate current clinical practices regarding the management of labial trauma following vaginal birth.
- To highlight the inconsistencies in treatment approaches for labial trauma.
- To underscore the need for further research to inform standardized care.
Main Methods:
- A survey of clinical practice was conducted across three National Health Service (NHS) organizations.
- Data were collected over a five-week period in 2019, encompassing 332 vaginal births.
- The survey documented the incidence and management (sutured vs. unsutured) of labial trauma.
Main Results:
- Overall, 47.3% of women experienced labial trauma during vaginal birth.
- Of those with labial trauma involving skin and underlying tissues (29.3%), 76.0% underwent suturing.
- The survey confirmed significant variation and lack of consistency in clinical management practices.
Conclusions:
- Childbirth-related labial trauma is common, yet its classification and management remain inconsistent.
- Current practices reveal a lack of standardized evidence to guide treatment decisions.
- Further research is essential to develop evidence-based guidelines for optimal patient care and outcomes.
