Medical procedure during childbirth

Sometimes it is necessary to speed up delivery. This can be the case if the contractions are weak and the pushing takes too long or if the baby's condition does not allow to wait any longer.
In both cases, the obstetrician transfers the care to the gynaecologist. He can then decide on a vacuum or forceps delivery. This is what we call an art redemption. About one in five women who are going to give birth to their first child will have to deal with an artificial delivery.

Vacuum delivery

In a vacuum delivery, a cup is placed on the baby's head. This cup is vacuumed within a few minutes.
As soon as the cup is firmly attached, the gynecologist will pull along during a contraction. While the gynecologist pulls along, it is important that the laborer still pushes hard; so the baby can be born quickly. Usually it takes a few contractions before the baby is born.

Forceps delivery

In forceps delivery, two metal spoons are carefully inserted next to the baby's head. The handles are hooked together and then the gynecologist will pull along during a contraction. Forceps delivery is not done very often these days.

Episiotomy

With an artificial delivery there is a greater chance that a cut will be made. The baby's head is born much faster than with a normal birth, so there is often not enough time to allow the pelvic floor muscles to stretch quietly. If cutting is necessary, a local anesthetic is always given first so that you do not feel anything.

Consequences for the baby

After a vacuum delivery, you can still see the imprint of the vacuum cup on the baby's head for a few days. This looks like a blue-red bulge. This swelling is not dangerous and will disappear within 24 hours. The discoloration will disappear on its own within a few days. You can also see the imprint of the spoons on the baby's head after a forceps delivery. This will disappear within a few days.
Many babies have headaches or nausea after an artificial delivery. In some cases, the pediatrician prescribes a painkiller. It is important that the baby is not picked up too much and can rest.