Hoobley, you are an encyclopedia - better even. Amazing the detail you seem to know about pretty much everything!
I'm no expert, but I wuld think that the ob is concerened that if the perineum is "short" that any tear, even a tiny one, would be severe... just my interpretation.
To be honest, it sounds very strange to me. But obviously a few OBs and midwives have come to the same conclusion independently.
To be honest the obs have always drawn a diagram im not sure if theyve named it as such, but the skin between the anus and vag is the perineum, the perineal muscle is what is underneath, actually found this hope im allowed to transfer this info:
First degree tear - tear involving the perineal or vaginal skin only
Second degree tear - perineal skin and muscles torn, but intact anal sphincter
Third degree perineal tear - perineal skin, muscles and anal sphincter are torn
a. Less than 50% of the external anal sphincter thickness is torn
b. More than 50% of the external anal sphincter thickness is torn, but internal anal sphincter intact
c. Both external and internal anal sphincters are torn, but anal mucosa intact
Fourth degree perineal tear - perineal skin, muscles, anal sphincter and anal mucosa are torn
Button-hole tear - anal sphincter is intact but anal mucosa is torn
i think really they are saying that because the area of skin is so short, next to go would be the muscle and the existing scar tissue would lead straight to the anus, but i will ask the ob ill add it to my never ending list i think i may need 2 appointments back to back
Yes i do mean that if i put my thumb at my vag opening and fore finger at my rectum it feels the same kinda width as if i do the same to the bottom of my ear lobe. (what a lovely conversation)
Kate: that was amazing info thank you so much and i would really appreciate anything you have to add thank you
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i think i may need 2 appointments back to back
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