After Childbirth: The “Husband Stitch” Haunts Many New Mothers
The "Husband Stitch" is a practice that happens to many new mothers. It's not a necessary medical procedure and those affected suffer pain
"Repairing" More Than an Episiotomy
Tearing from birth is, as we said earlier, not unusual. Repairing episiotomies is definitely necessary - but doctors who apply the "Husband Stitch" go too far. The extra stitch tightens the woman's genital area for the sole pleasure of the man during intercourse. The consequences for women are serious - loss of libido and pain while being intimate with one's partner occur all too often.
Sarah Harkins shared her story with Healthline. She remembers that, after giving birth, she was "so out of it physically, emotionally, and mentally. The doctor said it to him. Not to me… I was just lying there like a lump.” Taking away a woman's agency in this most vulnerable state is unimaginable. This once again shows how important it is to openly talk about the painful experiences women have during childbirth in order to take action against them.
In order to feel safe and comfortable during childbirth, try to find a doctor - and maybe even a doula - you trust.
