Prevalence of episiotomy and associatedfactors in a highly complex institutionin Cali, Colombia, 2022

Abstract

Introduction: episiotomy is a common but not routine obstetric procedure during delivery care, which over the years has increased. Objective: to determine the prevalenceof episiotomy and associated factors in a high complexity institution. Methods: crosssectional study with analytical component, including pregnant women with delivery care during the first semester of the year 2022 in a high complexity clinic in Cali, Colombia.Random sampling was performed with an N 343 deliveries and an error of 4.1%. Relative frequencies were estimated with a 95% CI and measures of central tendency and dispersion according to the distribution of the variable. To evaluate the association andadjust for confounding factors, multiple logistic regression was performed. Results: the prevalence of episiotomy was 37.4% (95% CI: 32.4% - 42.6%), 13.3% (IC 95%: 8.5% -19.7%) in multiparous women and 54.5% (IC 95%: 47.6% - 61.3%) in nulliparous women.The risk factors were: nulliparity OR 8.56 CI 95% (4.6 - 15.9), while protective factorswere identified as: low birth weight OR 0.21 CI 95% (0.05 - 0.82), grade I tear OR 0.08CI 95% (0.03 - 0.22) and grade II tear OR 0.17 CI 95% (0.08 - 0.034). Conclusion: the rate of episiotomy was 37.4%, which is outside the parameters established by theWorld Health Organization, so it is necessary to carry out educational interventions forhealth professionals to reduce these figures.