Final answer:
To reduce the necessity of episiotomy, practices that promote perineal tear should be encouraged.
Step-by-step explanation:
Episiotomy is a routine procedure in which an incision is made in the posterior vaginal wall and perineum to facilitate vaginal birth. However, it is now more common to allow the perineum to tear on its own during birth. To reduce the necessity of episiotomy, it is important to encourage practices that promote perineal tear rather than episiotomy. These practices include perineal massage, warm compresses, upright birthing positions, and slow controlled pushing.