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Assisted Delivery

Forceps and vacuum extraction methods for assisted delivery of a baby

Forceps are sometimes used when the baby is not moving down the birth canal (vagina). They can also be used to hurry delivery when the mother or baby is in distress during labor.

Vacuum extraction uses a cup-shaped extractor to apply a gentle suction to the top of the baby's head. This holds the baby in place. The vacuum extractor can be used to assist the mother while she is pushing during contractions.

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology

Current as ofNovember 21, 2017

Current as of: November 21, 2017

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine & Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology