They are repaired in the same fashion as an episiotomy. Sometimes a tear will require a bit more creativity in its repair than an episiotomy, but this is not beyond the ability of a skilled midwife or doctor. Studies have shown that there is little or no significant difference between second degree tears and episiotomies in terms of pain in the first few days after delivery. These studies have shown, however, that episiotomies may cause more long term discomfort and pain with intercourse which can last for many months. Episiotomies have also been shown to cause a greater blood loss with delivery.
Episiotomies shorten the second stage of labor significantly.
No significant reduction of the length of second stage of labor has been demonstrated in episiotomy vs. no episiotomy groups. Episiotomy preserves the integrity of a woman's perineal muscles, improving sexual satisfaction for her and her partner. It also decreases the incidence of urinary incontinence in later life. Episiotomy has not been shown to have any significant effect on either of these things. Exercise and heredity have the greatest influence on pelvic muscle strength.