Interventions During Labour

Interventions during labour

An intervention during labour is when a midwife or doctor intervenes in the birthing process to assist with the delivery of your baby. The most common forms of intervention are assisted delivery by forceps or vacuum, episiotomy or induction of labour. An intervention usually occurs when it becomes clear to your doctor or midwife that your baby will be unable to be born without assistance or the baby is in distress and will need to be born quickly.

If you are healthy and your pregnancy and labour are progressing normally, it is unlikely that you will require intervention. However, it is a good idea to discuss these methods with your doctor or midwife during your pregnancy so you are well informed and understand why these options might be considered.

For more information;

Pregnancy Birth & Baby – Interventions during labour

The Royal Women’s Hospital – Assisted birth

Induction of Labour

Pregnancy Birth & Baby – Induced labour

Baby Centre Australia – Induced labour

Maternity Choices Australia – Induction of Labour 

Assisted delivery (forceps and vacuum)

Pregnancy Birth & Baby – Assisted delivery (forceps or ventouse)

Baby Centre Australia – Assisted birth (forceps or ventouse)

Episiotomy

Mayo Clinic – Episiotomy: When it’s needed, when it’s not

Pregnancy Birth & Baby – Episiotomy

Sources: (Pregnancy Birth & Baby)   (The Royal Women’s Hospital)