In plain words
An obstetric anal sphincter injury is a tear during vaginal birth that reaches the muscle ring around the anus. Clinicians describe third-degree and fourth-degree tears in this group. A third-degree tear involves the . A fourth-degree tear also reaches the lining of the rectum. These tears are less common than other perineal tears but matter more for long-term bowel and bladder control. Mothers may notice gas or stool leakage, urgency, or pain with bowel movements. Many recover well over months. Some mothers need later assessment by a or a colorectal specialist. A mother who has had one is usually told about the signs to watch for.
The deeper version
OASIS is defined by the RCOG classification as third-degree (external anal sphincter disruption) or fourth-degree (involvement of the and anal epithelium). Incidence is generally reported as a few percent of vaginal births, with higher rates after operative delivery and with (Laughon and colleagues, 2014). Risk factors include , position, and large birthweight. Repair is performed by experienced clinicians, and prophylactic antibiotics and stool softeners or are commonly offered postpartum. Long-term fecal incontinence is reported in a minority, with pelvic floor rehabilitation an established option.
Where it comes up
- Healing a tear or stitchesPostpartum: Your Body
- Perineal massage, tearing, and episiotomyGetting Ready for Birth
- The first poop, constipation, and hemorrhoids after birthPostpartum: Your Body
- Your pelvic floor after birthPostpartum: Your Body
- Vacuum and forceps birthsBirth and the First Days
- Sex after birth: when, pain, dryness, desirePostpartum: Your Body
What mothers here say about obstetric anal sphincter injury
No one has posted under this term yet.
Sources
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists — Green-top Guideline No. 29: The Management of Third and Fourth Degree Perineal Tears, 2015
- Laughon SK et al. — Neonatal and maternal outcomes with prolonged second stage of labor. Obstetrics and Gynecology 2014