Developed by members of the IUGA Innovation, Research, and Development Committee, this important publication provides expert guidance on counselling and management for women with a history of obstetric anal sphincter injuries who are planning future pregnancies. The article was authored by M. Alarab, S. Jha, F. Pipitone, L. Cattani, A. Y. Weintraub, M. Giroux, and A. H. Sultan.
The paper reviews current evidence on the impact of subsequent mode of delivery following OASI, including effects on pelvic floor function, anal incontinence, quality of life, and patient decision-making. It highlights the importance of comprehensive postpartum assessment, including symptom evaluation, endoanal ultrasound, and anorectal manometry where available, to support individualized counselling.
The authors emphasize that decisions regarding future mode of delivery should be made through a collaborative, patient-centred approach, taking into account clinical findings, patient preferences, and the multifactorial nature of postpartum pelvic floor dysfunction. The publication also proposes a practical clinical decision-making algorithm to assist healthcare professionals in counselling women following OASI.
This Clinical Opinion aims to support evidence-based practice and improve the management of women affected by OASIs worldwide.
We invite you to explore the full article and discover its important clinical insights.