Around 27% of women experience no tearing at all, while 23% have a very minor vaginal tear or graze that often does not require stitches and heals on its own. Around 26% of women have a perineal tear that may need to be stitched.

Do perineal tears always happen?

Are perineal tears common? Up to 9 in 10 first-time mums who have a vaginal birth will have some sort of tear, graze or episiotomy. The Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists says that, for most women, these tears are minor and heal quickly.

How likely are perineal tears?

Up to 9 in every 10 first time mothers who have a vaginal birth will experience some sort of tear, graze or episiotomy. It is slightly less common for mothers who have had a vaginal birth before. For most women, these tears are minor and heal quickly.