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
Assisted delivery (forceps and vacuum)
Pregnancy Birth & Baby – Assisted delivery (forceps or ventouse)
Baby Centre Australia – Assisted birth (forceps or ventouse)
Mayo Clinic – Episiotomy: When it’s needed, when it’s not
Pregnancy Birth & Baby – Episiotomy