A surgical procedure to prevent tearing of the perineum and to facilitate delivery of the fetus is called:

A) colposcopy.
B) colpotomy.
C) episiotomy.
D) hysterotomy.

Episiotomy

A surgical cut made in the perineum (the area between the vagina and the anus) to widen the vaginal opening for childbirth.

Colposcopy

A diagnostic procedure that uses a colposcope to closely examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva for signs of disease.

Colpotomy

A surgical cut made in the vagina to access the pelvic cavity for diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.