Prevalence and Pattern of Perineal Tear Following Vaginal Birth in Kano, Northern Nigeria, A 2 Year Study

Introduction: Perineal trauma following vaginal birth is a common postnatal complication. As many as 85% of women suffer some form of perineal trauma, which has both short and long terms effects on women’s physical, psychological and social wellbeing. It can also occasionally disrupt breast feeding, family life and sexual relationships.

Objectives: To assess the incidence and pattern of perineal tear following vaginal delivery in Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, North Western Nigeria.

Methods: A retrospective review of the records of all parturients who delivered in the labour ward of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital Kano, during the period of the review (1st January 2016 to 31st December 2017). Necessary information for the review such as age, parity, type of tear, birth weight, APGAR score, and blood loss were retrieved and recorded in a proforma. The data collected was analysed using SPSS (version 23) statistical software and the result was presented as frequencies and percentages using simple statistical tables.

Results: The incidence of perineal tear in AKTH was found to be 11.4%. First and second degree tears were common among multiparous women, while third and fourth degree tears were common among primiparous patients. There was a statistically significant association between parity and severity of perineal tear.

Conclusion: The incidence of perineal tear is high in the hospital, antenatal and intrapartum risk reduction will play a vital role in reducing the incidence and severity of this condition, thereby improving the associated postpartum morbidity.