An intervention is any procedure performed by a care provider, usually a doctor or midwife to assist in the delivery of the baby.  Interventions include IVs, epidurals, fetal monitoring, assisted delivery (using forceps or a vent house suction cup), episiotomy, induction, augmentation, and cesarean.  By learning what each procedure entails and when and why it is performed you will be better able to make sound decisions as to whether or not you really need or want it.