Effects of early physiotherapy on recovery after episiotomy

Definition of the Effect of Early Individual Physiotherapy on Evaluation of Pain, Quality of Life, Function of the Pelvic Floor Muscles, and on the Sexual Functions in Women Following an Episiotomy During a Delivery

Not applicable Interventional Brno University Hospital · NCT06568406

This study is testing whether early individual physiotherapy can help women recover better in terms of pain, quality of life, pelvic floor function, and sexual health after having an episiotomy during childbirth.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment250 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 40 Years
SexFemale
SponsorBrno University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Brno)
Trial IDNCT06568406 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the impact of early individual physiotherapy on pain, quality of life, pelvic floor function, and sexual health in women who have undergone an uncomplicated episiotomy during vaginal delivery. Participants will be divided into two groups: one receiving individual postnatal physiotherapy and the other receiving standard care. The study aims to identify differences in recovery outcomes between these two groups through surveys and functional assessments. The research seeks to establish a better understanding of the benefits and potential drawbacks of physiotherapy in this context.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are women aged 18 to 40 who have had an uncomplicated mediolateral episiotomy and are primipara at term.

Not a fit: Patients who experienced complications such as vaginal rupture, anal sphincter injury, or have certain chronic conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved recovery and quality of life for women after childbirth.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on early physiotherapy post-episiotomy, similar approaches in postpartum recovery have shown promising results.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* female aged 18 to 40
* following an uncomplicated mediolateral episiotomy
* primipara at term with the cephalic occiput anterior position of the foetus
* signature of the informed consent and understanding of the study protocol

Exclusion Criteria:

* premature birth prior to 37+0
* other presentation than the cephalic occiput anterior position
* a performed vaginal extraction
* an associated vaginal rupture
* an injury of the anal sphincter
* paravaginal haematoma immediately after birth and before inclusion in the study
* multiple sclerosis
* serious neurological disorders
* connective tissue diseases
* chronic inflammatory bowel diseases
* congenital developmental disorders of the external genitalia

Where this trial is running

Brno

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions GynecologicalSurgery, Causing Obstructed LaborEpisiotomyphysiotherapypelvic floorscarpaindyspareunia
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.