Methods of Childbirth

There are various different types of delivery practised now, ranging from natural birth to those requiring operative procedures. We’ll briefly touch on the various types now.
The natural type of delivery refers to vaginal delivery, which is the most common type of childbirth. It starts with labour to coax the baby through the birth canal.
In certain instances, certain assistive devices are used. One example would be forceps (instruments resembling large spoons) which may be used to cup the baby’s head and help guide the baby through the birth canal.
Vacuum delivery is another way to assist delivery and is similar to forceps delivery. In vacuum delivery, a plastic cup is applied to the baby’s head by suction and the health care provider gently pulls the baby from the birth canal. Sometimes, certain medications can also be given to induce labour or move the labour process along
However, vaginal delivery may not always be possible. Caesarean delivery (C-section) may be necessary in certain instances. Listed below are certain complications of pregnancy which may necessitate a C-section
–          The baby is in breech position (not in the head-down position.)
–          The baby is too large to pass through the pelvis.
–          The baby is in distress.
Sometimes, the need for a C-section is determined by prenatal checks but sometimes, it is not determined until after labour begins. Once a woman has had a cesarean delivery, future deliveries are often also done by cesarean. That’s because surgery performed on the uterus increases the risk of it rupturing during a future vaginal delivery.
Other methods of childbirth include the following:
–          Midwife birth: This involves a registered nurse with advanced training in midwifery. A midwife can coach a pregnant mother during pregnancy, childbirth and even impart tips after childbirth
–          Water birth is also available to women who meet certain criteria and sign consent forms that are provided to health care providers and midwives. During labor, the mother is in a tub of warm water which provides cushioning and helps her relax and manage pain. At birth, the newborn is lifted out of the water.
References:
http://www.webmd.com/baby
http://themotherbabycenter.org
– Kian Hong (Pre and post natal course)