A precipitous delivery

Breast milk is the best possible nutrition for your baby. Close contact with your baby – skin-to-skin bonding – not just in the first few hours of life, is the first step towards successful breastfeeding.

If you live in a remote area and do not have your own transport to the maternity hospital, or if labour is already at an advanced stage or progressing rapidly, do not hesitate to call the emergency services on 155 in good time. If you do not make it to the hospital in time, you will at least benefit from the presence of a paramedic during the birth. 
If you are travelling to the maternity ward by car, are in a hurry and have serious concerns that you may not arrive in time due to traffic conditions, a previous rapid labour or very intense contractions, you can request an escort by police car to the nearest maternity ward from the Czech Police’s Integrated Rescue System.  
If the birth is so sudden that it must take place without a healthcare professional present, stay calm. In the vast majority of cases, rapid births proceed without complications. Pull over to a safe spot, switch on your hazard warning lights and call 155. The ambulance operator will then guide you safely through the steps:  

• Specify your exact location and provide basic information about the mother (how many times she has given birth, the baby’s position if known, any serious medical conditions the mother has, and her current condition – rupture of membranes, bleeding, nature of contractions). 
• Prepare the space – seat the expectant mother in a semi-seated position with her legs apart, ideally in the back seat. Place a clean towel or jacket underneath her, wash your hands or use sanitising wipes if you have them, then put on gloves. 
• Do not interfere with the birth; let it proceed naturally. Support the emerging head with your hands, but do not pull. After the birth, catch the baby with both hands and place it on the mother’s chest. Maintain skin-to-skin contact between the baby and the mother. It is advisable to stimulate the baby by gently patting it dry. 
• Wrap the newborn in a dry, clean cloth so that only the face is exposed; do not cut the umbilical cord yourself; wait for the ambulance to arrive. Also, keep the mother warm. 
• Do not pull on the umbilical cord in an attempt to deliver the placenta. If it does not come out on its own, leave its delivery to the medical staff.  
• Do not continue your journey after the birth. Paramedics will take care of both the baby and the mother, and will arrange transport and medical care.