Editing Vacuum extraction (section)

==Technique==
[[File:Vacuum-assisted Delivery (cropped).png|thumb|Vacuum-assisted delivery]]
[[File:Kiwi-vacuumextractor.jpg|thumb|Kiwi vacuum extractor]]

The woman is placed in the [[lithotomy position]] and assists throughout the process by pushing. A [[suction cup]] is placed onto the head of the baby and the suction draws the skin from the scalp into the cup. Correct placement of the cup directly over the [[flexion point]], about 3&nbsp;cm anterior from the occipital (posterior) [[fontanelle]], is critical to the success of a vacuum extraction.<ref>{{cite book|last=Vacca|first=Aldo|title=Handbook of Vacuum Extraction in Obstetric Practice |edition=3rd |year=2009|publisher=Vacca Research|isbn=978-1-920818-03-6}}</ref> Ventouse devices have handles to allow for traction.  When the baby's head is delivered, the device is detached, allowing the birthing attendant and the mother to complete the delivery of the baby.

For proper use of the ventouse, the maternal [[cervix]] has to be fully dilated, the head engaged in the birth canal, and the head position known. Preferably the operator of the vacuum extractor needs to be experienced in order to safely perform the procedure. The baby should not be [[preterm]], previously exposed to [[scalp sampling]] or failed [[Forceps in childbirth|forceps delivery]].<ref name=EMed271175/> If the ventouse attempt fails, it may be necessary to deliver the infant by forceps or [[caesarean section]].