Is a partial third degree tear somewhat different from a normal third degree tear?

[Terramirabilis]

I had a partial third degree tear with my first and the birth injuries campaign has got me thinking.

I've seen people on Mumsnet posting about having third degree tears with the implication that they were major injuries and yet that wasn't my experience of recovering from a partial one. Was I lucky or is there a real difference?

It's on my mind as I'll be giving birth again in a few months' time. It was never really explained to me at the time of the last birth what exactly a partial third degree tear meant and googling hasn't got me any further.

Hi @Terramirabilis,

3rd degree tears are subdivided in 3 categories 3a 3b 3c depending on how far the tear has gone.
More details on page 5 of The management of third and fourth degree tears RCOG

Third and fourth degree tears are always serious injuries BUT some women make full recoveries whilst others don't.

At present there is a void in talking about these injuries. It seems no one wants to admit women can get seriously injured giving birth.

If you are concerned, ask to see an obstetrician. Women who suffered a severe tear first time have an increased risk second time. Info here.
www.rcog.org.uk/en/news/bjog-release-new-study-examines-mode-of-delivery-following-a-perineal-tear-and-recurrence-rate-in-subsequent-pregnancies/

Hope this helps.

I'm 6 years on from a 3rd degree tear - and that link is fantastic, thanks for posting it PositiveVibe