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 ReviewerSarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine

Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine

Specialist Medical ReviewerKirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology

Current as ofMarch 16, 2017

Current as of: March 16, 2017

Author: Healthwise Staff

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