What are women´s experience with perineal trauma after vaginal birth?

Currently, perineal trauma is the most common complication after birth in the United
Kingdom (UK) (NHS Maternity Statistics, 2017). This will have an impact on women´s
daily life, affecting their physical, psychological and social wellbeing (Kettle, 2008).
Therefore, this research project aimed to answer the question, formulated by PEO tool,
`What are women´s experience with perineal trauma after a vaginal birth? ´.

A traditional review was used to examine and analyse different sources. It followed a
systematic approach throughout three databases, where the same criteria limiters and
Booleans operators were applied. Seven articles with different methodology were
chosen to respond the research question. Another article was extracted through back
changing. Then, the Critical Appraisal Skill Program Qualitative tool (CASP, 2017) was
chosen to critique the selected articles. The study using a Q methodology required the
used of another tool for its critique (Simons, 2013).

Three themes emerged from the literature. Firstly, women sustaining perineal trauma
experienced pain and incontinence as prevalent symptoms. Secondly, the experiences
related to sexual relationships resumed. Finally, the lack of support from the health
care professionals, and hence its implications for midwifery practice. All themes have
been examined and compared with the current midwifery practice. Despite this, the age
of the studies and the generalization of their content limited their results.

To conclude, recommendations for further research including more specific methods of
research analysing current practice may be done. Midwifery practice should be aware
of women´s experiences and integrate this knowledge to their practice, to be able to
provide holistic care.