Abstract
This article sought to carry out a review as to when the episiotomy ceases to be beneficial and becomes obstetric violence. It is known that during natural childbirth it is necessary for vaginal and cervical expansion to occur slowly, thus allowing the passage of the fetus. However, many times, in order to facilitate birth and prevent perineal injuries, women are submitted to a surgical incision in the perineum region, a process called episiotomy. The recommendation of the World Health Organization is that the rate of accomplishment of this intervention does not exceed 30%, however in Brazil this number is higher than the one proposed. Such a procedure results in negative impacts on women, both physical and psychological, such as urinary and fecal incontinence, dyspareunia, feelings of shame and fear. In addition, many pregnant women are not previously informed about the procedure to be performed, that is, their rights and autonomy are violated. Therefore, it is necessary for pregnant women to be informed during prenatal care about the possible interventions that may occur during the delivery process and, in addition, that health professionals perform episiotomy only in selective cases, aiming at the humanization of delivery.