Based on the specific circumstances during labor, as outlined in the comprehensive guide to childbirth href="http://www.dzjkw.net/muyingjiankang/https:/www.dzjkw.net/baby/hy/fm/"target=_blank>, obstetricians typically select different delivery procedures to assist expectant mothers. Moms-to-be, don't be afraid just because you hear the word "surgery."These procedures are scientifically determined by obstetricians based on actual conditions and have a long history of safe, successful clinical applications. Today, let's explore five commonly used delivery interventions. Procedure 1: Oxytocin-Induced Labor Oxytocin is the most frequently used medication in obstetrics for inducing labor and accelerating contractions. It primarily serves to initiate and strengthen uterine contractions while also preventing postpartum hemorrhage.Proper use of oxytocin induction can accelerate labor, reduce cesarean section rates and perinatal mortality, and lessen discomfort for expectant mothers.
If the due date has passed without signs of labor, doctors may administer oxytocin to induce delivery.
Before initiating oxytocin induction, the doctor will thoroughly assess the mother's condition and provide detailed explanations to both the mother and her family regarding the purpose, method, and precautions of the procedure. Oxytocin is typically administered intravenously via drip infusion. The doctor will strictly control the concentration and infusion rate based on the mother's condition, usually starting with a low dose and gradually adjusting it.
During oxytocin induction, continuous monitoring by specialized obstetric staff is essential. Fetal monitoring equipment is ideally used to observe changes in fetal heart rate and uterine contractions, providing indirect assessment of fetal reserve capacity and detecting potential umbilical cord compression.
In summary, oxytocin induction is a scientifically sound method of labor initiation. Physicians will determine the optimal dosage and progression based on the mother's specific condition, so expectant mothers can feel reassured.
Procedure 2: Vacuum Extraction
Vacuum extraction involves placing a specialized suction cup over the fetal head. Air is then evacuated from the cup using a syringe, creating a vacuum zone. This negative pressure suction holds the fetal head, aiding delivery in coordination with uterine contractions. Commonly used devices include conical metal tubes and flat, dome-shaped metal cups.
The primary advantage of vacuum extraction is its ability to rapidly conclude labor when fetal distress occurs. It also aids fetal descent when the baby is large or the mother is exhausted. Compared to forceps delivery, it carries a lower risk of injury to the soft birth canal and reduces the likelihood of fetal birth injuries. The procedure is straightforward and relatively easy to master.
Vacuum extraction is typically indicated for mothers with ineffective uterine contractions, conditions like heart disease or gestational hypertension that preclude pushing during labor, or mild cephalopelvic disproportion.
The procedure is straightforward: First, disinfect the perineum and catheterize to empty the bladder. Perform a vaginal examination to determine fetal position. Position the vacuum cup, inspect it for safety, and initiate negative pressure suction.The suction device is then pulled to traction the fetal head. Once the head is delivered, the suction device is removed. The remainder of the delivery proceeds through normal birth mechanisms.
Procedure Three: Forceps Delivery
Forceps delivery has a long history of use and remains an indispensable obstetric technique for resolving delivery complications. Studies indicate that proficient application of forceps technique significantly reduces maternal and fetal injuries.
Forceps delivery is generally indicated for conditions such as uterine inertia, malpresentation, fetal distress, mild cephalopelvic disproportion, and prolonged second stage of labor. When performed with proper technique and optimal forceps placement, it poses minimal risk of injury to the fetus or mother. Appropriate clinical application of forceps delivery not only reduces unnecessary cesarean sections and maternal-fetal injuries but also offers a simple and convenient procedure.
Traditional forceps consist of two blades that form a space between them, sized and shaped to fit the fetal head. This cradles and protects the head, preventing compression. The attendant holds the handles and gently pulls outward to assist in delivering the head.
Beyond double-bladed forceps, a novel obstetric technique—single-bladed forceps—has recently entered clinical trial. Its operation is straightforward, facilitating rapid fetal delivery with notably reduced maternal and fetal trauma. Single-bladed forceps not only shorten delivery time but also yield fewer maternal and fetal complications compared to vacuum extraction or double-bladed forceps, making it an increasingly adopted method in hospitals.
Procedure Four:Cesarean Section
Cesarean section, also known as C-section, is a common solution for difficult deliveries. It is generally indicated in the following situations: abnormal birth canal, macrosomia (large baby), abnormal fetal position, fetal distress, multiple pregnancies, and antepartum hemorrhage. Advantages of cesarean delivery include scheduled timing, avoidance of labor pains, no vaginal laxity, prevention of perineal tears, and elimination of concerns about dystocia.
Clinically, cesarean section is widely practiced as a safe delivery method. The procedure involves making an incision through the mother's abdomen and uterus to deliver the baby. Typically, cesarean delivery is performed to prevent potential harm to the baby or mother's life and health that might result from vaginal birth. Therefore, expectant mothers requiring a cesarean section need not worry—this decision is made by doctors to ensure the safety of both mother and child.
Before surgery, expectant mothers should maintain a calm and positive mindset, avoiding excessive tension or anxiety. During labor, relaxation techniques like listening to music, reading light-hearted books, or chatting with other expectant mothers can help ease nerves. Revisiting cherished moments from the pregnancy journey with the father-to-be is also beneficial. The procedure is generally performed under anesthesia, minimizing discomfort. A hospital stay of 2 to 4 days is required for post-operative observation.
Procedure 5: Episiotomy
The perineum refers to the soft tissue between the vagina and anus. An episiotomy involves administering local anesthesia near the perineum when the baby's head is about to emerge from the vaginal opening. Scissors are then used to make an incision in the perineum, widening the birth canal to facilitate delivery.
Episiotomy is generally indicated in the following situations: tight perineum in primiparous women to prevent irregular tearing and anal injury during delivery; fetal distress requiring rapid delivery; premature infants to avoid injury to delicate tissues; and other similar cases. Doctors perform episiotomy to facilitate delivery more effectively—there is no need to fear it.
Generally, when the fetal head is about to emerge from the vaginal opening, the doctor will immediately assess factors such as the baby's size and the risk of severe perineal tearing before deciding whether to perform an episiotomy. If the doctor determines labor is progressing smoothly and any tears would be minor even without an incision, the procedure may be avoided. Normally, an episiotomy does not affect bowel movements or postpartum sexual activity.