Episiotomy is an incision made in the perineum to facilitate the process of childbirth. It was once a routine part of childbirth, but now no longer the case. Evidence suggests that routine episiotomies don’t prevent extensive vaginal tears. Recent Cochrane review suggested that, in women where no instrumental delivery is intended, selective episiotomy policies result in fewer women with severe perineal/vaginal trauma. However, further research is needed if instrumental delivery is intended.