When I take a birth history of my bf moms, I always ask about complications
during the birth or immediate pp period:  i.e. - heavy pp bleeding, baby in
NICU, episiotomy, baby in distress or deep suctioned, etc.  The women are
always surprised at the fact that I include the episiotomy in complications,
and I remind them that 'if momma ain't comfortable, ain't no body
comfortable,' and that it makes it more difficult for her to get into a
pleasant, comfortable position for bf.

Having been on the receiving end of one episiotomy (the direct result of
which was inability to urinate, a bladder infection and a hospital stay of 6
days -- imagine that! -- and pain for over a year), and two minor lacerations
with the next two babies, I say, "Let 'er rip! -- though of course, I think a
controlled birth using massage, olive oil and warm compresses is much better.
 We used a crock pot in the birthing center to keep the water for the
compresses at just the right temperature....

Jan B