Prevalence of Episiotomy and its Associated Factors among Mothers Who Gave Birth at Public Health Facility in Gondar City, Northwest Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Extension of the incision, vulvar hematoma, infection, wound dehiscence and dyspareunia are some complications of performing episiotomy. Despite its adverse effects, the prevalence of episiotomy is increasing in some settings due to different factors. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of episiotomy and its associated factors among mothers who gave birth at Gondar public health facility, Northwest Ethiopia.

This, cross-sectional study was conducted among 411 mothers from September 1 to November 1, 2021. Data were gathered using a structured questionnaire administered by an interviewer and supplemented with a delivery chart review at postnatal room. Binary and multivariable logistic regressions were performed to identify predictor variables. P-value ≤ 0.05 used to determine the level of statistically significant of outcome variable.

A total of 411 study participants were interviewed, with a response rate of 100%. The prevalence of episiotomy was found to be 52.8%, with a 95%CI of 47.7–57.4). Being a perimiparous mother (AOR = 8.95; 95% CI: 4.65, 17.20), labor complications (AOR = 3.03; 95% CI: 1.21, 7.62), fetal distress (AOR = 4.51; 95% CI: 2.71, 6.49), and fetal weight ≥ 4 kilogram (AOR = 3.42; 95% CI: 2.64, 6.62) were significantly associated with episiotomy.

The rate of episiotomy was higher than the World Health Organization's maximum limit of recommendation (10%). Therefore, as per our findings we recommend that clinicians emphasize on use of standard guidelines and clear indication of performing episiotomy to reduce the rate of unnecessary procedures.