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Forceps Delivery
Forceps deliveries, consist of inserting a pair of 'metal spoons'
into the vagina. These 'spoons' lock together when in use, fitting
closely around the baby's head, although causing no damage to the
child.
During this procedure the mother will need to be lying on her back
with her feet placed in stirrups. A form of pain relief such as a
spinal block, will be necessary, that is if one is not already in
place.
Once the anaesthetic has taken effect the forceps will be inserted
into the vagina, and carefully placed around the baby's head (or
bottom, in the case of a breech presentation), and then locked into
position. The doctor will then begin to manoevre the baby out of the
birth canal. This is usually done during contractions, with the
mother being asked to push, thus 'helping' the doctor.
After the birth, you may notice tiny red marks on your baby's head,
but these will soon fade.
Reasons for needing a forceps delivery may include:
- Foetal distress in the final stages of labour
- Pre-term infants, in an attempt to protect their heads during
a difficult labour
- In the case of it being a breech delivery
- When you are unable to 'push' due to an epidural anaesthetic
not wearing off in time
- If the baby's head is in an abnormal position
- May also be used to deliver the baby during a caesarean
section
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