Methods of delivery

• Assisted Birth

  • 1 in 8 women
  • concern’s of baby’s health
  • baby is in an awkward position
  • Mother is exhausted
• Forceps

  • Smooth metal instruments that look like large spoons or tongs
  • Sits around the baby’s head, when mother pushes an obstetrician gently pulls
  • Can lead to vaginal tearing
• Ventouse

  • Plastic or metal cup that fits onto the baby’s head and is attached by suction
  • Sits firmly on the baby’s head and when mother pushes a obstetrician gently pulls.
  • Not used before week 34 as the baby’s head is too soft
• Episiotomy

  • Incision made in the perineum (tissue between vagina and anus)
  • Assists labour by making the opening of the vagina bigger
  • Used when the baby needs to be born quickly
• Emergency c-section

  • Delivers baby through a cut made in the abdomen and womb
  • Baby is in breech position
  • Baby needs to be delivered immediately - no oxygen
  • Pre-eclampsia
  • Labour not progressing