I should mention I did no preparation in the lead up to DD's birth and had no sex her entire pregnancy but didn't tear at all. I did go slow during the pushing and pause during the ring of fire.
I was going to mention this too but thought it might have been a bit OT.
My midwives instructed my pushing alot to avoid tearing (they told me what sort of push to do... Small quick ones, or long hard pushes or to just simply hold baby there for an extra few seconds so my body could catch up with the sensation) god I loved those midwives!