episiotomy
3
9.9
- noun
- /ˌɛpɪziˈɑːtəmi/
- Specialized
- An episiotomy is often performed to help deliver a baby safely during childbirth.
- episiotomy or tear
- episiotomy—a surgical cut
Examples
-
If you're pregnant, your obstetrician or midwife may have talked to you about the possible need for an episiotomy during childbirth.
Blog text (30) -
Have you ever heard of an episiotomy?
-
- Well, my mother has to have an episiotomy.
-
Did you have to have an episiotomy?
-
Of course I want an episiotomy after 3 hours of pushing!
Blog text (2) -
Each provider may have his or her own opinion about episiotomy.
Blog text (30) -
An episiotomy was performed.
Academic text (2003) -
An episiotomy is a surgical incision made between the vagina and rectum.
Blog text (30) -
After discussing my options, the doctor recommended an episiotomy to prevent tearing.
-
During my labor, I underwent an episiotomy to ensure a smoother delivery for my baby.
Synonyms
A cut in the area between the vagina and anus to help childbirth
Surface Forms
Morphology
episiotomy = episi + otomy
The word is built from medical combining forms ('episi-' + '-otomy') that are not productive standalone English words, so an average B1 learner cannot derive the meaning from the parts.
Etymology
The word episiotomy comes from Greek parts: episi- meaning 'the area between the vagina and the anus' and -otomy meaning 'cutting', the same ending you see in lobotomy. So an episiotomy is a 'cut' made in that area to help the baby come out during childbirth.