Trend and Inequality in Episiotomy in Southern Brazil, 2007-2016: Evidence of Reduced Abusive Practice.

Despite the significant reduction in the rate of episiotomy, its occurrence remains high. Women with higher income and education, therefore with lower risk for complications during childbirth, were the most frequently submitted to this procedure. Routine use of episiotomy must be reevaluated, especially among pregnant women with better socioeconomic status.