Augmentation

Artificial rupture of the membranes or use of oxytocic drugs after spontaneous onset of labour. Learn more.

Caesarean section

Birth of the fetus through an abdominal incision. Elective caesarean section: a caesarean section (planned or unplanned) performed before the onset of labour. Emergency caesarean section: a caesarean section performed after the onset of labour, whether or not the onset of labour was spontaneous. Learn more.

Epidural

Injection of analgesic agent outside the dura mater which covers the spinal canal; includes lumbar, spinal, and epidural anaesthetics. Learn more.

Episiotomy

An incision of the perineum and vagina to enlarge the vulval orifice. Learn more.

Induction of labour

Includes the following:
Oxytocics–prostaglandins: the initiation of labour by the use of oxytocic agents, prostaglandins, or their derivatives (oral, intravaginal or intravenous).
ARM only: the initiation of labour by artificial rupture of membranes.
Oxytocics–prostaglandins and ARM: both medical and surgical induction as defined above (combined medical and surgical induction).

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Perineal status

1st degree tear:  a perineal graze–laceration–tear involving: the fourchette, hymen, labia, skin, vagina, or vulva.
2nd degree tear:  a perineal laceration or tear involving the pelvic floor or perineal muscles or vaginal muscles.
3rd degree tear:  a perineal laceration–tear involving the anal sphincter or rectovaginal septum.
4th degree tear:  a third degree perineal laceration or tear which also involves the anal mucosa or rectal mucosa.

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