Today, the husband stitch is considered malpractice – obstetricians have sometimes sewn an extra stitch or two while repairing vaginal tears and episiotomies after childbirth.

➜ It was thought the extra stitch would tighten the vaginal opening and increase sexual pleasure for the husband/male partner.

➜ Many women have gotten the husband stitch without their knowledge or consent.

➜ Adverse reactions include longer recovery, chronic pain and discomfort, painful sex, swelling, scar tissue formation and infections.