What are forceps?
Forceps are a medical instrument of which there are many varieties. They consist of two handles and two flat sides. They are sometimes used to deliver a baby, especially when speed is necessary to overcome fetal distress, or dystocia. The doctor will place the forceps on the baby’s head down to the level of the baby’s ears and use them to guide the baby out of the birth canal. If the baby’s head is not facing straight down the doctor will use the forceps to rotate the head proving a better route through the birth canal. Episiotomies are almost routinely performed if forceps are required and they are completely safe if the baby’s head has stuck at crowning. Forceps are also used to aid in the mother’s pushing if she is fatigued, and to position the baby’s head in the birth canal, especially if the fetal heart rate is showing signs of distress. Some mothers also electively use forceps if they have chosen an epidural and need assistance in delivering the baby. Complications due to forceps
