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  3. eLearning and Simulation for Instrumental Delivery (EaSi)
  4. EaSi resource
  5. Operative delivery rates
EaSi resource
  • Introduction
  • eTutor profile
  • Background
    • History
    • Operative delivery rates
    • Importance of instrumental delivery
    • Comparison with caesarean section
    • Requirements for training
    • Failed instrumental delivery
    • Reducing instrumental delivery rate
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  • Pelvic anatomy
  • Maternal and fetal assessment
  • Decision making
  • Preparing for instrumental delivery
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Operative delivery rates

There has been a dramatic increase in the rate of operative delivery in the last 50 years, mainly owing to the increased rate of caesarean section over the last 30 years. This may be, in part, caused by the increased use of continuous electronic fetal monitoring, epidural anaesthesia, the increase in fetal size and the increase in maternal complexity.

Image of the change in operative delivery over last 50 years in the UK. Data from NHS Maternity Statistics.
Change in operative delivery over last 50 years in the UK. Data from NHS Maternity Statistics
Instrumental delivery rates in England

Instrumental delivery rates in the UK have remained stable at 10–13%.

Image of data from NHS Maternity Statistics.
Data from NHS Maternity Statistics


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