At what point during labor is an episiotomy performed?
If necessary an episiotomy is performed when about two inches of the baby’s head is visible during a contraction. The episiotomy is closed after the placenta is expelled and the uterus contracts. The doctor will also check your cervix and vagina for any lacerations and if necessary repair those as well. Before closing the incision your doctor will test the area to make sure the anesthetic is still working, and if necessary provide you with more. The actual surgery takes about ten minutes.