The Use of Forceps During Delivery
While many people think that there are only two types of delivery methods – vaginal and caesarean – there is also a method that falls in between these two types. With operative vaginal deliveries, doctors use tools like forceps and vacuums to help remove the baby without having to perform a full caesarean section.
The use of forceps during delivery can be extremely beneficial if utilized correctly. However, if these instruments are mishandled or used with too much force, it can cause serious injury to your baby. If your baby has been hurt by forceps, you should talk to an attorney about your legal rights. Contact the Philadelphia birth injury lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., today at 215-238-1130 to discuss your case.
Reasons for Using Forceps
Normally, soon-to-be-mothers and their obstetricians choose vaginal deliveries because they do not expect a risky labor. However, certain things can happen during the birth process that may require special assistance. Reasons for forceps-assisted deliveries include:
- Failure to progress
- Abnormal fetal heart rate
- Signs of umbilical cord compression
Types of Forceps
Depending on the reason for using forceps, there are several different types of these instruments that are each helpful in their own ways. The three main types of forceps are:
- Elliot – most rounded, best for mothers who have had at least one previous vaginal delivery
- Simpson – more elongated, used on mothers who are in their first vaginal delivery
- Kielland – straighter and with a sliding mechanism to help turn a baby into the proper position for vaginal delivery
Contact Us
Although forceps can be helpful when used properly, they can also prove to be harmful if not applied correctly. If your baby has been injured due to the misuse of these instruments, call the Philadelphia birth injury lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., today at 215-238-1130.