There are several safe and medically supported ways to give birth. The most common is a vaginal birth, where the body progresses naturally through contractions and the baby is born through the vagina. Many births unfold spontaneously, but sometimes support such as amniotomy or oxytocin infusion is needed if labour slows down.

A ventouse (vacuum) delivery is used when the baby needs to be born more quickly or when the birthing person is exhausted after a long pushing phase. This is a safe and well-studied method. A doctor guides the baby out in sync with contractions while you continue pushing actively.

A cesarean section (C-section) is another way to give birth and can be planned or emergency.

A planned C-section is chosen when vaginal birth is not the safest option — for example, breech presentation, certain medical conditions, or severe birth anxiety.

An emergency C-section is performed during labour if the baby or birthing person needs help urgently, such as in cases of fetal distress or stalled labour despite interventions.

All birth methods are medically safe when used for the right reasons, and each is carried out by a skilled team of midwives, obstetricians, and anaesthesia staff. The goal is always the same: a safe birth for both you and your baby.

Understanding the different birth options can help you feel more prepared and confident, no matter how your labour unfolds.

Alma’s tips

• There is no “right” way to give birth — all methods are safe when medically appropriate.

• Ask staff to explain why a decision is made — you always have the right to understand.

• A birth plan is helpful but should remain flexible.

• No matter how your baby is born, you have done something extraordinary.