Other ways of giving birth

While many women have an unassisted vaginal birth, additional assistance is sometimes needed to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the mother and baby.

Understanding the different modes of birth can help you feel informed and prepared for a range of birth outcomes.

Assisted vaginal birth

Ventouse (Vacuum Extraction)

A soft suction cup is attached to the baby’s head
Gentle traction is applied during contractions
Temporary scalp swelling can occur

Forceps birth

Curved metal instruments are placed around the baby’s head
Used to guide the baby through the birth canal
May be associated with a higher chance of perineal trauma

Pain relief during an assisted birth

If an assisted vaginal birth (ventouse or forceps) is recommended, appropriate pain relief will be provided to ensure you are as comfortable as possible. The type of pain relief used will depend on your circumstances and whether you already have an epidural in place.

If you have an epidural, it can usually be topped up before the procedure.
If you do not have an epidural, you may be offered a local anaesthetic, a pudendal block, or occasionally a spinal anaesthetic.
Entonox (Gas and Air) may also be used alongside other forms of pain relief.
If an episiotomy is required, local anaesthetic will be given unless an epidural or spinal anaesthetic is already providing pain relief.

Your healthcare team will explain the procedure and ensure appropriate pain relief is available to keep you comfortable while supporting a safe birth for you and your baby.

Caesarean birth

A caesarean birth is an operation in which the baby is born through an incision in the abdomen and uterus.

Types of Caesarean births

Planned Caesarean

A caesarean that is booked in advance.
You will usually know the date of your baby’s birth beforehand.
This may be recommended because of your baby’s position, a previous caesarean, or other medical reasons.

Unplanned Caesarean

A caesarean that becomes necessary during pregnancy or labour.
It does not always mean there is a life-threatening emergency.
Sometimes labour is not progressing as expected or there are concerns about the wellbeing of you or your baby.

Types of Anaesthetic for a Caesarean

Most women having a caesarean are awake for the birth of their baby. A spinal anaesthetic is the most common option, allowing you to meet your baby straight away while remaining comfortable throughout the operation.

Spinal Anaesthetic

The most common type for a planned caesarean.
Medication is given into your lower back.
You will be awake for the birth but your tummy and legs will be numb.
You should not feel pain, but you may feel some tugging or pressure.

Epidural

Similar to a spinal but uses a small tube already placed in your back during labour.
Extra medication can be given through the tube to make the area numb for surgery.
You will remain awake for the birth.

General Anaesthetic

You are asleep during the operation.
This is usually only used if the birth needs to happen very quickly or if a spinal or epidural is not suitable.

A caesarean birth is major surgery. Good pain relief, gentle movement, wound care, rest and accepting support can all help promote a smooth recovery.

Useful resources

Considering a caesarean birth (RCOG)
Caesarean birth advice and information (Labour Pains)
Having a c-section (Tommy’s)