Ventouse and forceps deliveries are safe ways to give birth. But there are some risks associated with having an assisted birth. Some of these risks may apply to you, others may apply to your baby.
Do not be afraid to ask questions during the birth if you are having an assisted birth. Your obstetrician will tell you about the risks and answer any questions.
Risks to you
Risks to you include a vaginal tear or episiotomy (cut in your perineum). These are usually repaired with dissolvable stitches.
Third-degree or fourth-degree tear
You may have a third-degree or fourth-degree tear. These types of vaginal tears involve the muscles of the rectum or anus (back passage).
Third-degree or fourth-degree tears happen in:
- 1 in 100 women who have a normal vaginal birth
- 4 in 100 women who have a ventouse birth
- 8 to 12 in 100 women who have a forceps birth
Blood clots
Your risk of getting a blood clot is slightly higher after an assisted birth compared to a non-assisted birth.
You can reduce this risk by moving around as much as you can after the birth. You may have to wear special compression stockings. Some women get an injection of a blood thinner to prevent a clot.
Difficulty peeing
Sometimes you can have difficulty peeing after an assisted vaginal birth.
If you had an epidural you will need a catheter for a few hours until the epidural wears off.
Incontinence
You can leak pee or poo (incontinence) after an assisted birth, especially if you have a third-degree or fourth-degree tear.
If you notice this, talk to your midwife, GP or obstetrician. They can refer you to a physiotherapist for pelvic floor physical therapy.
Pelvic floor exercises can help strengthen your pelvic muscles and reduce leaks. These muscles come under great strain in pregnancy and childbirth.
Most women who have an assisted birth will not have these problems after recovering from the birth.
Tips to help with urinary incontinence
Risks to your baby
There can be common short-term side effects for your baby from a ventouse or forceps delivery.
Ventouse
The suction cup can sometimes cause a bruise on your baby’s head. This is called a cephalohaematoma. It's not that common and disappears after 1 to 2 days.
Some babies with cephalohaematomas are more jaundiced than usual for 1 to 2 days after the birth. Otherwise, they do not cause any problems.
Forceps
Forceps can sometimes cause red marks on your baby’s face. These usually disappear within 2 days.
Small cuts on a baby’s face or scalp are common after an assisted birth. These heal quickly and should not cause any problems for your baby.
