I am the Primary Co-Author on this paper published in the International Urogynecology Journal in September 2019. This research is paramount in demonstrating that a woman’s health is multi-dimensional with birth trauma from a severe perineal tear proving to have significant ongoing effects in the medium to long term.
We interviewed 200 women all whom had sustained an obstetric anal sphincter injury during labour, an average of 4 years post birth. Our clinical experience told us that we needed to look beyond the typical symptoms of bowel issues, and dig a little deeper into other elements of health such, emotional issues, mental health, sexual dysfunction, relationship impact as well as her ability to perform normal daily activities.
The research revealed many things (which I urge you to read more in the paper) but most importantly that 51% of women an average of 4 years post anal sphincter tear, are continuing to experience one or more symptom that the average person of society would deem unacceptable to live with.
These symptoms include regular issues with control of feces or wind, inability to return to work, inability to exercise, high level of sexual dysfunction or significant emotional impact.
I think you would all agree this is not good enough. Women should not have to live like this.
It’s not acceptable and its time for change.
It’s time that more information is provided to women.
It’s time that women are better supported in their post-natal recovery.
But more importantly, it’s time that more is done for prevention.
I would be most grateful you to take the time to download & read the full paper and share it. Its only through sharing that we can create an impactful change for ourselves, our friends, family and daughters.
