 Active management involves giving a drug which helps the uterus contract before delivering the placenta by a gentle but sustained pull on the umbilical cord whilst exerting upward pressure on the lower abdomen to support the uterus (controlled cord traction).Another method of active management which is not recommended now is fundal pressure during the delivery of the placenta.A review into this method found no research and advises controlled cord traction because fundal pressure can cause the mother unnecessary pain.