Childbirth, also referred to as labor or delivery, marks the culmination of pregnancy, where one or more babies make their way out of the uterus through the vagina or via Caesarean section.

Types of Delivery

Medical assistance during childbirth can range from natural methods involving medicines to assisted procedures during emergency situations.

 

What is an Assisted Delivery?

Vaginal delivery is the most common type of birth. However, certain situations may necessitate assisted delivery methods. Though labor is generally a straightforward process, it might require medical staff assistance, which can include the use of medicines and emergency procedures.

 

Assisted Delivery Procedures During Labor

During the process of labor, several assisted delivery procedures might be employed based on the specific conditions that arise. Some of these assisted delivery methods include:

Episiotomy

An episiotomy is a surgical incision made in the perineum to enlarge the vaginal opening, allowing the baby’s head to pass through more comfortably and preventing tearing of the mother’s skin. This procedure is reserved for special circumstances, and most women will not require it.

Amniotomy (“Breaking the Bag of Water”)

An amniotomy involves the artificial rupture of the amniotic sac, which contains the fluid surrounding the baby. This procedure can be performed either before or during labor and is usually done for the following reasons:

  • To induce or augment labor
  • To place an internal monitor and assess the uterine contraction pattern
  • To place an internal monitor on the baby’s scalp and assess the infant’s well-being
  • To check for meconium, which is the baby’s first stool

Following the procedure, delivery should occur within 24 hours to prevent infection.

Induced Labor

Induction of labor becomes necessary for various medical problems or complications during pregnancy. It is commonly used for pregnancies with conditions such as:

 

  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Ruptured membranes
  • Small baby
  • Past-due pregnancy

Forceps Delivery

A forceps delivery involves the use of forceps, which resemble two large spoons, to assist in the delivery process. The doctor carefully inserts the forceps into the vagina around the baby’s head and gently guides the baby’s head through the birth canal. The rest of the baby is then delivered naturally.

Vacuum Extraction

Vacuum extraction entails using a small suction cup, known as a vacuum extractor, placed on the baby’s head to aid in delivery. A vacuum is created with the help of a pump, and the baby is guided down the birth canal, aided by the mother’s contractions. This process may leave a bruise on the baby’s head, but it typically resolves within the first 48 hours.

Cesarean Section (C-Section)

A cesarean section, commonly known as a c-section, is a surgical procedure performed when a vaginal delivery is not feasible or safe. During this procedure, the baby is delivered through surgical incisions made in the abdomen and the uterus.

In conclusion, childbirth encompasses various delivery methods, ranging from natural vaginal births to medically assisted procedures. Each method serves its purpose and is carefully chosen based on the specific needs and conditions of the mother and the baby. The medical staff’s expertise and knowledge ensure that every delivery is carried out safely and efficiently, prioritizing the health and well-being of both the mother and the newborn.