Table 2.

CMCs responses to survey questions

	Questions asked in survey of CMCs	Responses (number)
	In what location are the majority of third degree perineal tears repaired?
	a Birthing room	8
	b Theatre	5
	c Other	1
		(3 respondents included two locations in their response)
	In what location are the majority of fourth degree perineal tears repaired?
	a Birthing room	2
	b Theatre	11
	c Other	1
	What suture material is predominantly used for severe perineal trauma repairs?
	a Vicryl	8
	b Dexon	3
	c Catgut	3
	d Polysorb	0
	e Other	0
	What method of suturing is predominantly undertaken?
	a Overlapping	1
	b End to end	1
	c Don’t know	2
	d Different with different practitioners	8
		(one respondent answered with Figure Eight)
	Who is permitted to repair severe perineal trauma?
	a Midwives	1
	b Residents	9
	c Registrars	3
	d Other	0
		(6 respondents included two health professionals in their response)
	When severe perineal trauma occurs is it a reportable incident?
	Yes	12
	No	1
	Sometimes	1
	Is there a follow up clinic available that women are referred to?
	a Yes	10
	b No	3
		(one respondent answered with “unsure”)
	Has a recent audit been undertaken on the incidence of severe perineal trauma within your area/unit?
	a Yes	10
	b No	3
		(one respondent answered with “unsure”)
	Do you think the incidence of third and/or fourth degree perineal trauma is rising?
	a Yes	10
	b No	2
	c Unsure	2