Possible complications in childbirth

Historically, childbirth has been a major cause of premature female death; however, with advances in medical care and technology, complications are now very rare and the vast majority of births go very smoothly without any complications or problems. Although serious complications are now rare, childbirth does still present risks to both the health of the mother and the unborn baby and occasionally problems do arise. Throughout labour, both the mother and baby will be monitored closely to ensure the labour is progressing well; if a problem is detected during foetal monitoring (this involves monitoring the progress and health of the baby) it can then be resolved as quickly as possible.

Some of the more common examples of complications during childbirth are outlined below:

Possible complications in childbirth:

• Possible complications in childbirth
• Premature Labour
• Causes of Premature Labour
• What Should I do if I go into Premature Labour?
• What will happen at the hospital if I am giving birth prematurely?
• What happens after my baby is born?

• Where can I find Support for Premature babies?
• Problems with the umbilical cord
• Foetal distress
• Problems with the placenta
• Postpartum haemorrhage
• The Neonatal Unit