What is vacuum extraction?
When labor is prolonged in the second stage, one option for assisted delivery is vacuum extraction. This method involves placing a vacuum extractor cup on the baby’s head and using suction and traction to help guide the baby through the birth canal, while the mother pushes.
Why is vacuum extraction needed?
When a baby is having difficulty being born, doctors and nurses may use vacuum extraction, also known as a "ventouse." Surgery is usually seen as a last resort. Before a c-section is performed, vacuum extraction can be used to assist the mother in delivering the baby.
What is the advantage of vacuum extraction?
(1) Vacuum extraction allows for assisted delivery without the need for a surgical procedure. (2) It can help to speed up the delivery process in cases where the baby is having difficulty being born. (3) Vacuum extraction can help to prevent maternal exhaustion and reduce the risk of cesarean delivery. (4) It can be used in conjunction with maternal pushing efforts, which can lead to less maternal trauma and better outcomes for both mother and baby. (5) Vacuum extraction can be useful in situations where there is a fetal distress, such as fetal heart rate deceleration. (6) It can also be used when the mother is experiencing an obstructed labor, for example when the baby is occiput posterior or when the cervix is not fully dilated.
When is vacuum extraction required?
(1) When labor is prolonged in the second stage and the baby is having difficulty being born. (2) When the baby is in distress, such as when there is a fetal heart rate deceleration. (3) When there is an obstruction in labor, such as when the baby is in a posterior position or when the cervix is not fully dilated. (4) When the mother is exhausted and unable to push effectively. (5) When the mother has a medical condition that contraindicates pushing, such as hypertension or heart disease. (6) In cases where vacuum extraction is the best option that is available with the equipment and personnel available to the healthcare provider.
What is the recovery time for a vacuum extraction delivery?
Recovery time after a vacuum extraction delivery can vary depending on the individual case and the extent of any complications. Typically, the recovery time is relatively short, and most women can resume normal activities within a few days to a week. However, some women may experience more significant discomfort or complications, and the recovery time may be longer. Compared to a c-section the recovery time is shorter for vacuum extraction with less risk for complications.