prevent tearing or an episiotomy

Epi-no
Not the most sexy thread...

One of the things women fear during childbirth is (perineum) rupture. Some fear the episiotomy even more: a surgical cut in the perineum to widen the passageway for a vaginal birth. Yes; that's exactly what it sounds like and you may get shivers! Some doctors and mothers in labor prefer to make that clean cut even before the risk of rupture is perceived. Even though recent research suggests that many of the proposed advantages of episiotomy may not be valid, it is still widely used in obstretics.

So: how to prevent that dreaded tearing or an episiotomy? I've heard of perineal massage. But have just stumbled on another gimmick on the market: the epi-no. This is a sort of balloon with which the woman practices to push the baby out.

The philosphy of the inventor Dr Wilhelm Horkel being: "The human body performs more efficiently in any physical activity when the body has trained and prepared for it. Childbirth is no Exception"

I wonder;
-is there anyone on this forum that has experience using such a device as the epi-no and would like to share?
-for those medical professionals among us; does this seem like a valid method to you? Would you recommend it?
-perhaps any other types of preparation to prevent tearing?

PS: No, I'm not pregnant, I've recently started an education considering childbirth. I've doubted putting this question on this forum, since it does not have emphasis on sex or relationships (although it is something a couple may be concerned about. And it could really influence your sexlife off course, given scarring etc...) Since I find that replies are generally valuable over here, I thought: just give it a shot :)

RedRoses