What is an ''assisted'' delivery, and why would I need one?

This is when you are given help to get your baby born. It is done by using forceps, or a plastic cup (ventouse) which fit onto the baby''s head. As you push, the doctor applies traction and together you assist your baby to be born. You may need help because you are too tired to do it by yourself, because the baby is distressed and needs to be born quickly, or because your baby has not turned to a suitable position for birth and needs help for the head to turn. Examples of this are the baby''s eyes facing upwards (OP position) or sideways (OT position).