THE LEARNING OUTCOMES:
Perineal tear following vaginal delivery is the most common form of obstetric trauma and can lead to significant maternal morbidity, 85% of women who have a vaginal birth experience perineal trauma. (RCOG, 2015) and 1 in 20 first-time mothers suffer tears in the anal sphincters (MASIC, 2023). Given its relevance, it is essential that professionals involved in childbirth care—especially midwives, in accordance with ICM guidelines (2018)—receive appropriate training in the prevention, diagnosis, and repair of such trauma. Through a theoretical-practical methodology, the course aims to assess the different degrees of perineal tears, explore their physical and emotional implications, review perineal protection maneuvers during delivery, and discuss the most recent scientific evidence in this area.

THE PROCESS/ACTIVITIES:
The content includes the handling of instruments and materials, practice of continuous intradermal suturing, the Aberdeen knot and square knot techniques, as well as the analysis and discussion of clinical cases.

AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION:
This course is intended for midwives, obstetricians, residents, healthcare personnel, and other health professionals with an interest in the obstetric field. Its main objective is to provide participants with up-to-date practical skills in perineal suturing techniques. Professionals who have participated, since 2016, highlight the positive impact on their clinical practice, mentioning increased confidence and technical skills. Additional reading Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. The Management of Third- and Fourth-Degree Perineal Tears. Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists; 2015. Maternity Anal Sphincter Injury Collaborative. Incidence and Outcomes of Anal Sphincter Tears in Primiparous Women. MASIC; 2023. International Confederation of Midwives. Essential Competencies for Midwifery Practice. International Confederation of Midwives; 2018.