Types of childbirth

Ventouse, forceps or spatula-assisted delivery

If delivery does not occur spontaneously, the gynaecologist sometimes needs to use instruments such as a ventouse, forceps or spatulas to help the baby out of your uterus. This is referred to as an instrumental delivery.

In most cases, an episiotomy is performed prior to the use of instruments.

These interventions may be carried out with local anaesthetic, an epidural, or even under general anaesthetic.

Forceps are a type of pulling instrument. They are made up of two 'spoons' which are inserted into the vagina, and placed around the baby's head, in a very precise position. The two 'spoons' are then connected to handles, with the whole contraption resembling a pincer. By pulling on the handles in time with the mother's contractions, the medical professional can help the baby move down and out.

Spatulas are made up of two 'spoons' which are not connected to one another. They resemble forceps, but are less 'potent', and can be manipulated separately to help get the baby out.

An obstetric ventouse is a simple suction cup made of metal or silicone, connected to a vacuum system, which is attached to the top of your baby's head.

Unlike forceps, a ventouse cannot be used to pull the baby out, but it can help turn the baby's head and guide them to allow the delivery to proceed more easily.

A ventouse will leave a 'bulge' on the baby's head, which will generally resolve itself within 24-48 hours after birth.

Caesarean section

A Caesarean section is a surgical intervention whereby the baby is removed 'abdominally' through an incision in the uterine wall.

A Caesarean is performed under local anaesthesia (epidural or spinal anaesthesia) or under general anaesthesia.

It can be scheduled if the mother's pelvis is too narrow, if the baby is not in the right position, or if the baby is very big. This is referred to as a primary Caesarean.

A Caesarean section might also become necessary due to difficulties or complications that occur during childbirth. This is referred to as a secondary Caesarean.