episiotomy

noun

epi·​si·​ot·​o·​my i-ˌpi-zē-ˈä-tə-mē  -ˌpē- 

: surgical incision of the perineum to enlarge the vaginal opening for obstetrical purposes during the birth process

Examples of episiotomy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In addition, the hospital had to demonstrate high-quality care by achieving satisfactory rates of unexpected newborn complications, C-sections, and episiotomies. —Sarah Scott, Parents, 9 Dec. 2025

It's been studied for diabetic foot ulcers, surgical incisions to the perineum during childbirth (episiotomies), and abscesses.1 Manuka honey is your best bet for wound care. —Megan Nunn, Verywell Health, 7 Oct. 2025

An episiotomy, in which the perineum is cut with scissors, often results in more severe tearing and damage. —Carson Meyer, People.com, 26 Mar. 2025

Have episiotomy rates 33% lower compared with maternity care hospitals not recognized by U.S. News. —Bebe Hodges, The Enquirer, 11 Dec. 2024

An episiotomy may reduce stress on the infant and reduce complications.2 Other benefits of episiotomies may include:2 The infant's head and shoulders cannot fit through your vaginal opening. —Korin Miller, Health, 15 Sep. 2023

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary episio- vulva (from Greek epision pubic region) + -tomy

First Known Use

1878, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for episiotomy

• ovariotomy
• craniotomy
• dichotomy
• lithotomy
• phlebotomy
• tenotomy
• vagotomy
• laparotomy
• osteotomy
• thoracotomy
• tracheotomy

Kids Definition

episiotomy

noun

epis·​i·​ot·​o·​my

i-ˌpiz-ē-ˈät-ə-mē

plural episiotomies

: an operation to enlarge the opening of the vagina at the time of childbirth to make delivery easier

Medical Definition

episiotomy

noun

epi·​si·​ot·​o·​my i-ˌpiz-ē-ˈät-ə-mē  -ˌpēz- 

plural episiotomies

: surgical enlargement of the vulval orifice for obstetrical purposes during childbirth