Asian women in England almost twice as likely to suffer severe childbirth tears

"Third- and fourth-degree tears, also known as obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI), are the most severe forms of vaginal tearing during childbirth. Up to 90% of women experience some tearing during labour, with most of these injuries healing quickly and having a relatively minor impact. A third-degree tear extends into the muscle that controls the anus and a fourth-degree tear extends further into the lining of the anus."

"According to Guardian analysis of NHS figures obtained via a freedom of information request, Asian women suffered third- and fourth-degree tears at a rate of 2,831 tears per 100,000 deliveries during 2023-24. This compares with rates of 1,473 per 100,000 for white women and 1,496 per 100,000 for black women. Such injuries can result in life-changing physical and mental harm, including bowel incontinence, post-traumatic stress disorder and chronic pain."

Asian women in England experienced 2,831 third- and fourth-degree tears per 100,000 deliveries in 2023-24, compared with 1,473 for white women and 1,496 for black women. Third- and fourth-degree tears (OASI) are the most severe vaginal tears and can extend into anal muscle and lining. Such injuries can cause life-changing outcomes including bowel incontinence, chronic pain and post-traumatic stress disorder. Causes of the higher risk for Asian women are multifactorial, including anatomical and physiological differences, structural systemic issues, possible differences in care, rates of instrumental births, nutrition and inequalities, and frontline staff awareness is inconsistent.

Read at www.theguardian.com