More first-time mothers are experiencing uterine ruptures and severe stretch marks during delivery, the Danish database for births (DKF) has revealed in a DR report

Last year, 5.4% of first-time mothers who underwent vaginal delivery suffered uterine ruptures as well as anal sphincter injuries. In 2021 and 2020, the figures were 4.9% and 4.6% respectively. DKF is steadfast in its goal of maintaining these figures below the 5% threshold, emphasizing the urgent need to enhance the quality of childbirth experiences in Denmark. Midwife and DKF member Lene Friis Eskildsen said that besides the stretch marks, new mothers are also grappling with enduring challenges related to toilet visits and intercourse. However, she reassured that the number of women facing long-term problems remains relatively small, with comprehensive post-labor care in place, including reparative surgeries and thorough follow-up care. Though she said there was no clear explanation for the increasing severity of stretch marks and ruptures, Lene suggested that it could be linked to the delivery of larger and heavier babies, as well as the rising body mass index (BMI) among pregnant women.