"Achieving best practice in perineal care is one of the most widely debated issues in midwifery today. This book describes for the first time in one volume a range of physiological, practice, education and policy issues to inform perineal management." "The chapters cover the anatomy of the pelvic floor, the management of perineal trauma, episiotomy, health after childbirth, postpartum care of the perineum, prevention of perineal trauma and the development of the perineal tear assessment tool. Some chapters present evidence for the first time." "With contributions from internationally acknowledged experts, the text is an invaluable resource for both clinicians and women."--BOOK JACKET.