Assisted birth and caesarean birth

Medical interventions in labour

When are medical interventions needed?

A normal, problem-free labour is every pregnant woman's wish, however medical interventions are sometimes needed to help with the birth of a baby.

Some interventions include:

• forceps birth
• vacuum birth
• caesarean birth.

Why would I need an assisted birth?

Possible reasons for an assisted birth

Assisted vaginal birth accounts for around 11% of births in Australia. Reasons include:

For baby

• there are concerns about the baby's heart rate
• the baby is in an awkward position: facing up (occiput posterior ‘OP’ position) rather than facing down (occiput anterior ‘OA’ position).

For mother

• certain medical conditions, for example high blood pressure
• a prolonged pushing stage and maternal exhaustion.

Assisted birth and caesarean birth

In this guide:

1. Assisted birth – vacuum birth
2. Assisted birth – forceps birth
3. Caesarean birth
4. What can I expect for a caesarean birth?
5. Risks of caesarean birth

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