The short tong-like blades and stems help minimize uterine rupture and other injuries.įorceps have been used in hospitals across the world for many years. Wrigley: Wrigley’s forceps are mostly used when the baby is far down the birth canal.The cephalic curve is elongated to help fit between the head and the birth canal. Simpson: Simpson forceps are most often used when the baby’s head is being squeezed by the birth canal.They have a downward curve that fits around the baby’s body. Piper: Piper’s forceps are designed for use in breech deliveries.These have a shallow pelvic curve and a sliding lock. Kielland: Kielland models are the most common, and are mostly used to help rotate the baby in the birth canal.They are used in cases where the baby’s head is very rounded. Elliot: Elliot models have a more rounded curve to them.There are different varieties of forceps that are used depending on the situation and the position of the baby. Forceps are made from sterile, surgical grade materials and are designed to cradle the baby’s head.

The open end of forceps are placed around the infant’s head to help guide the baby out during the mother’s contractions. What are Forceps?Ī pair of forceps is a birth-assisting tool that closely resembles large salad tongs. They have two curved cups that are open to the middle. A forceps injury can cause long-term medical conditions like brachial plexus injuries or cerebral palsy. Improper use of these tools can lead to serious birth injuries like nerve damage and brain injuries.

The use of forceps has declined in recent years, and doctors increasingly prefer vacuum extraction when an assistive tool is needed. Although they are certainly beneficial when used appropriately, the percentage of birth injuries associated with forceps, continues to be a cause for concern among experts and healthcare advocates.Įven though statistics show that a forceps delivery injury can be a very a real and serious problem, physicians continue to use them, despite the chances of inflicting trauma on infants. Forceps are designed to help deliver the baby if the mother becomes too tired to push, if the baby is in distress or if the baby is in a suboptimal position. Birth-assisting tools have been commonplace during difficult deliveries for many decades.

Misshapen head infant