Childbirth Related Labial Trauma Management in the UK: A Brief Report

Trauma to the labia occurs in up to 49% of vaginal births¹. Trauma to the perineal body resulting from childbirth is well defined using widely used categories, and recommended management of perineal body trauma is based on high level evidence. Currently no similar evidence exists to inform the classification or management of labial trauma. This is reflected in variation in clinical practice with some practitioners favouring suturing of labial trauma, whilst others favour healing by secondary intention. A survey of practice was undertaken in three NHS organisations, over a five-week period in 2019 with data collected on 332 vaginal births. Overall, 47.3% (n=157) of women sustained labial trauma, of whom 29.3% (n=46) sustained trauma described as involving skin and underlying tissues. Of the labial trauma which involved skin and underlying tissues 76.0% (n=35) was sutured and the remainder unsutured. The survey confirmed a lack of consistency in practice and the need for further research to inform care for women.