Ukrainian Journal of Perinatology and Pediatrics. 2024. 2(98): 107-114; doi: 10.15574/PP.2024.98.107
Petrenko E. V., Bulba P. A.
Dnipro State Medical University, Ukraine

For citation: Petrenko EV, Bulba PA. (2024). Prevention of perineal injuries during vaginal births (literature review). Ukrainian Journal of Perinatology and Pediatrics. 2(98): 107-114; doi: 10.15574/PP.2024.98.107.
Article received: Feb 21, 2024. Accepted for publication: Jun 15, 2024.

A review of the literature on risk factors for perineal injuries and modern methods of preventing ruptures during childbirth, which can be used during pregnancy and childbirth, is provided.
The aim of this literature review was to summarize the scientific data on risk factors for perineal trauma during childbirth and methods of preventing this complication used during pregnancy and during childbirth.
The significant prevalence of perineal injuries, as well as a number of complications for a woman's health after these injuries, determine the relevance of research by scientists around the world on methods of preventing ruptures during vaginal childbirth. Perineal injuries of any severity can be associated with significant physical and psychological morbidity, both postpartum and in the long-term. Long-term perineal pain and dyspareunia, which can last up to 18 months after birth, can negatively affect relationships with the newborn, partner and family. The consequences are particularly significant in cases of obstetric damage to the anal sphincter, which are associated with perineal deterioration in the functional state of the pelvic floor muscles, pain, dyspareunia, sexual dysfunction and, in complicated cases, social problems. Obstetric damage to the anal sphincter is also a significant risk factor for the development of anal sphincter failure.
No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.
Keywords: perineal trauma, obstetric damage to the anal sphincter, childbirth, prevention.

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