during an assisted birth. But any effects are likely to be short term. Forceps can cause bruising while a ventouse may temporarily affect the shape of a baby’s head.
Small cuts on a baby’s face and head may also occur but generally fade quickly.
If you are concerned, talk to your health visitor or GP.
How will I be affected?
It’s normal to feel bruised and sore after birth, particularly if you had an assisted birth. In particular, stitches and swelling after an episiotomy or tearing may make it painful when you go to the toilet but healing is usually quick. Remember to keep the area around your vagina clean to avoid infection.
Most women will recover from an assisted birth within a few weeks but some may experience complications, such as severe vaginal tearing, blood clots and urinary or anal incontinence.
How will I feel?
Sometimes, an assisted birth can leave new parents feeling as if the situation was taken out of their hands. If this is how you feel, it can help to ask the obstetrician or midwife before you leave hospital about what happened and why it was necessary.
Some women and their partners might also want to talk about the emotional impact after they have gone home. If you did an NCT antenatal course, you could get in touch with your antenatal teacher to talk this through.
You could also call our Shared Experiences Helpline on 0300 330 0700 where our enquiries team will put you in touch with a volunteer who has gone through a similar experience and is able to offer understanding and a listening ear.
Will I need an assisted birth if I have another baby?
It’s unlikely you will need an assisted birth with subsequent babies. Most women who have an assisted vaginal birth deliver spontaneously next time round.
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