I can't thank you all enough for the information that you have all given me. My friend is 5 months pregnant... and she is wondering whether to have an episiotomy. And to tell you the truth, it is one of those things i'd be scared about too. But I feel a little better, with all this info.

A few other questions,... if you are torn or cut, are there anything that would facilitate healing? And what is the difference between a doula and a midwife? I've never heard of the term doula before. Forgive my ignorance.

Thanks.