This field contains a code which defines the method used to deliver a baby that is a registrable birth. The code is obtained from the ICD classification for delivery method.

This item appears for each baby on multiple birth delivery records.

0 = Spontaneous vertex (normal vaginal delivery, occipitoanterior)

1 = Spontaneous other cephalic (cephalic vaginal delivery with abnormal presentation of head at delivery, without instruments, with or without manipulation)

2 = Low forceps, not breech, including forceps delivery not otherwise specified (forceps, low application, without manipulation)

3 = Other forceps, not breech, including high forceps and mid forceps (forceps with manipulation)

4 = Ventouse, vacuum extraction

5 = Breech, including partial breech extraction (spontaneous delivery assisted or unspecified)

6 = Breech extraction not otherwise specified, including total breech extraction and version with breech extraction

7 = Elective caesarean section (caesarean section before or at the onset of labour)

8 = Emergency caesarean section

9 = Other than those specified above, including destructive operation to facilitate delivery, and other surgical or instrumental delivery, for example, application of weight to leg in breech delivery

null = Not applicable (from 1990-91 to 1994-95)

x = Not known (from 1996-97 onwards)