If the baby needs to be helped from the vagina, perhaps because the contractions aren’t strong enough, because the baby has got into an awkward position, is becoming distressed, or because you have become too exhausted, then forceps or vacuum extraction (sometimes called Ventouse) will be used.

A local anaesthetic will usually be given to numb the birth canal if you haven’t already had an epidural or spinal anaesthetic. With vacuum delivery (also known as KIWI) a shallow rubber or metal cap is fitted to the baby’s head by suction. Or forceps may be placed round the baby’s head by an obstetrician and with gentle, firm pulling the baby can be born. You can help by pushing when the obstetrician asks you to.

Sometimes you will find red marks on your baby’s head where the forceps have been, or a swelling from the vacuum. They will soon fade. An episiotomy, where a cut is made in the skin and muscle between the vagina and back passage, is nearly always needed for a forceps delivery. The baby's father should be able to stay with you if you wish