Obstetric Myths Versus Research Realities: Episiotomy - Summary of significant points, references, and abstracts from related studies from this book on obstetric myths. Episiotomy: Ritual Genital Mutilation in Western Obstetrics - An article denouncing the practice of routinely cutting the perineum during hospital deliveries in the United States with abstracts for related studies. Benefits and Risks of Episiotomy - Text of the manuscript subtitled "A Review of the English-Language Literature Since 1980" by R.J. Woolley which summarize the findings of studies on the subject. Perineal Protection - Avoiding Tears and Episiotomy - Suggestions for avoiding the procedure from midwives, including the use of perineal massage and birth stools. NPR : Study Questions Value of Episiotomies - A new study in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds no benefit from episiotomies. Melissa Block talks with Dr. Katherine E. Hartmann, who is lead author of the study. [3:53 streaming audio broadcast] Baby Center: Episiotomy - The how and why, including commonly asked questions and their answers. Includes user submitted comments on personal experiences with the procedure.