Many people who give birth vaginally have permanent changes to the pelvic floor due to over-stretching or tearing (avulsion). Muscle damage - the 'pelvic floor' is a group of muscles inside the pelvis that helps hold the uterus, bladder and bowel in place.It occurs when a third or fourth degree perineal tear high up the vagina goes through to the rectum (called a 'button hole tear') or if a perineal tear is deeper than estimated, is not repaired well, or an infection occurs. This refers to a tear between the vagina and the bowel or bladder which causes an inability to control the passage of faeces (poo). Obstetric fistula - this is a rare complication in Australia.Bowel or bladder irritation, or a fullness sensation in the vagina or rectum can also occur. You may experience pain around the vagina and perineum and sometimes down the legs. Nerve damage - occasionally, nerves in the perineal area can get damaged during childbirth, which can lead to a condition called pudendal neuralgia (long-term pelvic pain).muscles controlling the anus and bowel movements (third degree).muscles of the perineum (second degree, which is most similar to the depth of an episiotomy).skin of the perineum or labia (first degree).These tears are at higher risk of complications and usually need more treatment and follow-up. Perineal tears and episiotomy - around 3 in 4 women who give birth vaginally experience 'perineal trauma' (a tear or surgical cut to the area between the vagina and anus).Caesarean wounds can also be considered a physical birth injury.īirth injuries in mothers typically fall into 2 main categories: If you've given birth, injuries may range from tearing in the vaginal area, to damage the pelvic floor. In newborn babies, a birth injury (often called ' neonatal birth trauma') can include things, from bruising to a broken bone. They can affect either the mother or the baby. Related information on Australian websitesīirth injuries are physical injuries experienced during childbirth.What follow-up appointments should I have?.What are risk factors for birth injury?.Can physical birth injury impact me emotionally?.Support is available - speak to your doctor or midwife about how to prevent birth injuries, or if you've already given birth, discuss any concerns with a health professional.You may experience physical birth injury, emotional birth trauma, or both of these.Most risk factors are out of your control, but there are preventative measures and treatments available.Physical birth injury includes a variety of conditions usually affecting the perineum and pelvic floor.