Why Is Vacuum Extraction Attempted And When?
Vacuum extraction may be used to assist in the delivery of the baby: • when there is concern about the well-being of the baby; • when progress in the second stage of labour is too slow or has become arrested i.e. after the cervix has become completely dilated • to shorten the second stage of labour for maternal conditions such as high blood pressure or heart problems or for fetal reasons to avoid a long second stage which may be too stressful for the baby. Sometimes there may be a combination of reasons that makes it necessary to expedite the delivery. On the other hand, vacuum extraction is not recommended before the cervix has become completely dilated, when the baby’s head has not yet engaged or when the baby is premature. In addition to a valid reason for delivery, there are a number of other factors that can influence the outcome which must be taken into consideration before vacuum extraction is attempted. Such factors as the overall condition of the baby and mother, the strength
