Massage during labor may prevent unnecessary cutting and tearing

This study looked at whether a gentle massage of the perineum (the area between the vagina and anus) during labor can lower the chance of needing an episiotomy (a surgical cut) or having a natural tear during childbirth. About 200 women having a single baby head-first at full term took part. Half received standard care plus the massage, while the other half had standard care alone. The goal was to see if the massage group had fewer cuts and less severe tears.