Suction bell: here's everything you want to know

A suction bell is sometimes used when a birth needs to end quickly. It helps to provide traction during pushing. The suction cup looks like a small cup that is pressed against the baby's head. Under the right conditions, it is the fastest option for ending a vaginal birth - faster than a caesarean section, for example.

How and when is a suction bell used?

If you and your baby need help to finish the birth, staff may use a suction bell. You as the birthing mother and your partner are always informed before.

Many people have concerns about using a suction bell, but it is important to remember that it is still you who gives birth to your child - The suction bell only provides extra traction. For many, it is also a relief, as it is used when the body needs help to cope.

The suction bell attached to the baby's head via the vagina. During a labor, the obstetrician pulls while pushing. The method can increase the risk of ruptures, but the midwife or doctor will protect the perineum as much as possible to reduce the risk.

How to do it step by step

When the suction bell is used, several steps take place in a specific order:

1. You are in bed with legs in leg rests.
2. You get anesthesia, if you haven't already (e.g. spinal anesthesia).
3. About the amniotic fluid has not passed the midwife punctures the amniotic membranes.
4. The suction bell attached to the child's head.
5. The obstetrician pulls while pushing.
6. Often the suction bell is released when the baby is almost out, so that you can push the baby out yourself during the last contractions.

Allowing the tissue to stretch more naturally at the end can reduce the risk of major ruptures.

After childbirth

The child's head can temporarily see reformatted out where the suction bell was, but it quickly returns to normal. It is common with bleeding under the skin on the head (known as cephalhematoma), but this is not a brain hemorrhage. If the child shows signs of pain, they are pain relief with paracetamol via the rectum.

Prerequisites for the use of a suction bell

The use of the suction bell requires that:

• you are completely open,
• the child's head has dropped far enough down the birth canal, and
• the bladder is empty.

If the bladder is full, it can be an obstacle, so it is common to drained of urine by catheter before using the suction bell.

Decision and risk assessment

In obstetric care continuous risk assessments.
If the doctor suggests suction bell, it is because other options, such as caesarean section, are considered to pose greater risks for complications.

When a suction bell is used, there is often extra staff in the room to ensure that the birth is as safe as possible - for both you and the baby. In some cases, waiting pediatrician and pediatric nurse outside if the baby needs extra support after birth.

If you experienced a dramatic birth

If you have experienced a dramatic birth or have negative memories you can book a return visit with obstetrician. You will go through the process together. It may be good to allow some time to pass beforehand, as questions and feelings often come afterwards. You also have the opportunity to talk to a doctor at the maternity hospital before going home if you want to process the experience early.

Rapid responses

What is a suction bell?

A device attached to the baby's head to provide traction during contractions.

When is a suction bell used?

When the birth needs to be completed faster and it is considered the safest option.

Does it hurt to give birth with a suction bell?

You will be given an anesthetic before the procedure, such as a spinal anesthetic.

Can suction cups increase the risk of stretch marks?

Yes, but the midwife and doctor protect the perineum to reduce the risk.

How is the baby affected by the suction bell?

The child may have a temporary change in shape of the head or bleeding under the skin (cephalhematoma), but this will pass.

FAQ

1. What does the suction bell do during childbirth?
It attaches to the baby's head and helps with traction while pushing.

2. Why is a suction bell used instead of a caesarean section?
Because it is often a faster and safer way to end labor when both you and the baby are well enough for a vaginal birth.

3. What happens when the suction bell is set?
You will be given an anesthetic, the midwife will puncture the membranes if your waters have not broken, and the doctor will attach the suction bell to the baby's head.

4. What happens after childbirth?
The baby's head may be temporarily shaped by the suction bell, but it quickly goes back. Sometimes minor bleeding occurs under the skin.

5. Do I have to lie in bed when using a suction bell?
Yes, you are lying in bed with your legs supported throughout the procedure.

6. What should I do if I feel unwell after giving birth?
Book a return visit with the obstetrician or talk to the maternity ward staff.

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