Opting out of stitches/episiotomy?

[koutaliaphobe]

So, flicking ahead through my handheld notes and there's a tick-list to get you started on a birth plan. One of the questions is "do you want an episiotomy/stitches if necessary?" I'm struggling to understand why you wouldn't - do they just leave it flapping open if you say no?
Can someone please explain this to me? Are there any advantages to letting it all heal naturally?

Hey regarding the birth plan and tick boxes it's quite strange to me never heard of it.

All I can suggest is bein open minded to everything.

Regarding stitches no they don't leave you open if you have tore bad enough to need stitches you will hae them nonetheless. I had a tear and graze that was minor and was t stitched but boy I wish it was :o

I had an episiotomy and was stitched, my birthing plan this time round is the same as my first very open minded. Although at the time it felt like padding ton station and people coming in every 2 minutes. They did stich me too tight and I did have to go for corrective surgery 12 months later but would have it again if it meant. A safe delivery this time round. Currently 39+2

I think they're asking two questions in one,

will you have an epis if needed
will you have stitches if needed.

If you have an epis you need stitches. Most trusts now recommend all second degree tears are stitched...it used to be up to the midwife's discretion about whether it needed stitching or not. But research has shown that they heal better if stitched.