EPI-NO - Has anyone used one?

[AlexTasha]

Hi ladies,

My midwife suggested that we invest in an EPI-NO machine, has anyone used one?

Any advice would be great!

Thanks.

Nope.

To be honest, if you need an episiotomy then you need an episiotomy ( they're not routine, so used for forceps, ventouse or an ermergency)

If you do tear, it's unlikely to be severe.

I say that as someone who had an episiotomy extend into a 3a tear.

If you're concerned about tearing, why not do perineal massage and and save yourself £80 or whatever the epi-no costs?

I'm using the Epi-No but haven't given birth yet so can't give you the full perspective but I'm glad I bought one (despite the expense!). It was recommended to me by a gynaecologist and can be used for both pelvic floor exercises as well as 'birth preparation'. I'm now 40 weeks and 2 days and have been doing the training daily (it actually recommends twice daily) and I hope this will reduce my risk of tearing/episiotomy. I was horrified after witnessing an episiotomy as a med student and so bought one in an attempt to lower my risk but realise there are no guarantees. Good luck!

Thanks for your input. I think I will buy one as it's better to be safe than sorry! I don't want to do the massage as I can barely reach. I don't have a problem spending money if it will be beneficial. :)

There still isn't conclusive proof that perineal massage reduces risk or incidence of tearing. I doubt there is for this either? Sorry, but I'm skeptical.....

joygirl I don't think there is for either, but at least with the massage you only waste time, not time and cash

I don't waste time - as I literally cannot reach!!!!!!

I'm skeptical too. All the evidence that I've found on it comes from the company itself and therefore is not to be trusted. However like MmeBlanc I saw a fair few horrors on the labour ward at med school, the episiotomy was bad but not as bad as the 4th degree tear. Therefore heart fanjo wins over head and I'll be buying one.

Hrm, yeah, I must admit I am skeptical too...My midwife did say that out of the 45 clients she knew that bought one, 42 managed not to tear. She isnt a spokesperson for the company either so it must have some benefit I guess! doodle Argh I didnt even know there was such a thing as a 4th degree tear!