The two most common reasons for forceps delivery are the failure of progress in the second stage, often because the uterus is not contracting sufficiently strongly, and the baby becoming short of oxygen (fetal distress). For a simple forceps delivery, local anesthetic is used to numb the opening of the vagina. Then forceps, which are specially shaped, thin metal blades, are slipped gently around the baby's head to assist delivery as you push with the contraction. An episiotomy is made just before the baby's head emerges. Although they sometimes leave a slight temporary red marks on the face, forceps should not harm the baby. |
