Final answer:
An episiotomy is the surgical incision of the perineum made to prevent tearing during childbirth. It involves an incision in the posterior vaginal wall and perineum to facilitate birth, but its use has decreased as natural tears heal better.
Step-by-step explanation:
The surgical incision of the perineum made to prevent tearing during childbirth is known as an episiotomy. This procedure involves making an incision in the posterior vaginal wall and perineum, which may facilitate vaginal birth by allowing more space for the baby to be delivered and potentially reducing the risk of severe perineal tearing. An episiotomy is different from a perineal tear, which is naturally occurring during childbirth and also requires suturing for optimal healing. While episiotomy used to be a routine procedure, it is now less common, and the perineum is more often allowed to tear naturally because tears tend to heal faster, are less painful, and are associated with less damage to the muscles around the vagina and rectum.