A forceps delivery is an assisted vaginal birth in which specially designed obstetric forceps are used to gently guide the baby’s head through the birth canal.
Obstetric forceps may be used when specific maternal or fetal circumstances make assistance appropriate, including certain situations involving prolonged second-stage labor or the need to expedite birth.
The curved blades of the forceps are carefully placed around the baby’s head, allowing the healthcare professional to assist during contractions while the mother continues pushing.
Modern forceps delivery is performed only under specific medical conditions by clinicians trained in the technique. When appropriately selected, it can help avoid an emergency cesarean section.
QUICK FACT
Obstetric forceps are used to guide the baby’s head; they do not pull the baby out independently.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
- Cesarean section: surgical delivery through incisions in the abdomen and uterus.
- Spontaneous vaginal birth: vaginal birth without forceps or vacuum assistance.
- Vacuum-assisted delivery: uses a suction cup attached to the baby’s head rather than metal forceps.
SEE ALSO
- Forceps Delivery
- Forceps
- Obstetric Forceps
- Vacuum Extraction (Ventouse)
- Vaginal Birth
- Labor
