Even if you’re healthy and well prepared for childbirth, there’s always a chance of unexpected problems. Learn more about labour complications.

Slow progress in labour is also called failure to progress or prolonged labour. Read what happens when your labour doesn't go as quickly as expected.

An 'intervention' is an action taken by a midwife or doctor to help you birth your baby safely.

A retained placenta is when part or all of the placenta is not delivered after your baby is born. It can lead to serious infection or blood loss.

Shoulder dystocia is when a baby's shoulder gets stuck during childbirth. Read more about shoulder dystocia, including causes and treatments.

Find out about assisted delivery, sometimes called an 'instrumental delivery' — when forceps or a vacuum device are used to help you give birth.

Preterm labour is when you go in to labour before your pregnancy reaches 37 weeks. Here's what to expect when you have your baby prematurely.

Induction of labour is when labour is started with medical treatment. Read about the reasons why you may be induced and the different methods used.

Umbilical cord prolapse is when your waters break and the umbilical cord enters your vagina. This medical emergency risks your baby’s oxygen supply.

Pregnancy normally lasts about 40 weeks or around 280 days from the first day of your last period, however some women go overdue.