Forceps Delivery: Treatment, Effect & Risks

During a forceps delivery (also known as a forcep delivery), the unborn baby is carefully “pulled” out of the birth canal using birth forceps (forcep). Forceps delivery is used when complications arise during the final stage of delivery, when the baby is in acute danger, or even when medical professionals believe that the birth must be completed as soon as possible.

What is forceps delivery?

Forceps delivery and also suction cup delivery are among the “obstetric interventions”. They usually serve to speed up the process of child birth. The reasons are different; mainly doctors decide for forceps delivery when the mother or the child are in danger. As a rule, forceps delivery is rarely used. Suction cup deliveries are performed more frequently. This is because forceps delivery can be uncomfortable for the mother and the risk of injury is higher. Sometimes forceps delivery can also be faster. While several instruments are needed for the delivery with the suction cup, the physician needs only the forceps for the forceps birth. This guarantees that the birthing process can be completed more quickly, allowing the mother and baby to get out of the dangerous situation.

When does forceps delivery become necessary?

Medical professionals opt for forceps delivery when there is a risk to the baby during the last phase of birth – the so-called expulsion period. If the placenta and uterus become less well perfused – due to the prevailing pressor contractions – the baby must be delivered as soon as possible. This is because acute oxygen deprivation may occur. It must also be remembered that during delivery the head is subjected to extremely high pressure, so there is a risk that the child’s brain may not be supplied with sufficient blood. The doctors check the baby’s heart tones during the birth process. By means of the CTG (cardiotocogram), the physician can check whether there is stress or a possible lack of oxygen; both aspects would endanger the well-being of the child. If abnormal changes in the CTG occur, the doctor can – thanks to forceps delivery – speed up the birth process and minimize any risks that might affect the child or the mother. Even if the mother is very exhausted and there are sometimes medical reasons why the woman cannot (or should not) continue to push, the delivery can be accelerated or supported by forceps delivery. Reasons for speeding up the birth, for example, because it takes too long or the pain is too severe, do not justify forceps delivery. Forceps delivery is used only when there are actual dangers and risks that affect either the baby or the mother.

What happens during a forceps delivery?

The expectant mother is on the delivery bed while the medical professional in charge checks the cervix and also the attitude and position of the unborn baby. Then – by means of a disposable catheter – the woman’s bladder is emptied. This allows the medical professional to place anesthesia and perform the perineal incision. There are different types of forceps; therefore, the physician must select the appropriate forceps for the woman in advance. The birthing forceps are composed of two metal blades that resemble a spoon. This is because it allows the surfaces of the forceps to be placed against the head of the unborn baby. The “spoons” are inserted one by one and then carefully placed. In doing so, the physician tries to place the spoons on the side of the child’s head. After that, he connects the forceps parts and tries to create a holding grip. Before the forceps delivery is performed, the medical professional makes sure that the forceps have been placed correctly. With the next contraction, during which the woman has to push, he tries to gently pull the baby out of the birth canal. Once the baby’s head has been delivered, the physician can put the forceps away; the birth continues normally. Further use of the birth forceps, if the head can be seen or was born, is not necessary.

Effects on the child

Forceps birth – if used carefully – has no effect on the unborn child. Ultimately, this variant is an “obstetric support”. However, any risks and dangers must be discussed in advance.Finally, the medic – if he presses the “spoons” too hard – can cause injuries. The child may suffer bruises or even facial nerve injuries. Sometimes a skull fracture may also occur. These complications are possible, but as a rule they hardly ever occur. Injuries can also be inflicted on the mother. Sometimes it is possible that the birth canal is injured or the perineal laceration continues to tear or even the cervix gets torn. These injuries also occur rarely.

Advantages of forceps delivery

Forceps delivery, although it is also an emergency solution, can have advantages. If the doctor decides to use forceps delivery, he does not need several instruments – unlike the usual delivery by suction cup – because only one forceps is necessary here. The forceps are usually ready for immediate use, so that if there is any danger to the child or the mother, the birth can be ended quickly. It is important that the mother is informed about the procedure, but this is usually not a problem or the mother must be informed.