A digital rectal examination is recommended following the surgical repair of an episiotomy to confirm that no sutures have breached the rectal mucosa.

The repair instructions explicitly include a rectal examination afterward. It follows closure of the vaginal, muscle, and skin layers and allows assessment for possible rectal or anal injury. The material also recommends good lighting and appropriate positioning during repair.\n\n**Key takeaway:** The post-repair rectal examination is an important check described in the lecture.\n\n**Glossary:** **Anal sphincter**: Muscle complex controlling the anal opening; **laceration**: A tear in tissue.