When it comes to labor and delivery, the word “Hemostatic Forceps” strikes fear into the hearts of many expectant mothers. However, these tools are utilized during the delivery of one out of every ten babies and prove to be an invaluable asset in the process of bringing a child into this world. When are forceps used, and what are the reasons for doing so? Is it uncomfortable for the mother or potentially harmful for the infant? Magic cradle discusses your thoughts and observations on the topic with you.

What are Hemostatic Forceps?

Pliers are also referred to as Hemostatic Forceps in English. These large lubricated metal instruments, which resemble large spoons, can surround the baby’s head thanks to the shape in which they are designed. This prevents the head from being compressed. Only a gynecologist is qualified to use them, and depending on the circumstances, he can select the appropriate forceps from among several different kinds (traction force to be applied, position of the head in the pelvis, or the size of the child).

When is the use of Hemostatic Forceps Appropriate?

When the laboring mother is too tired to continue pushing effectively or when the gynecologist determines that the laboring mother has reached her physical limit, they may decide to assist her by using hemostatic forceps. This only occurs at the very end of the labor and delivery process, specifically during the expulsion stage, which is the final phase of labor and delivery. There are also circumstances in which pushing is not recommended, such as when a pregnant woman already has heart problems or when the labor is premature.

On the other hand, forceps are typically utilized in cases of foetal distress. After that, it is of the utmost importance to rescue the child as quickly as possible. On the other hand, the medical staff may decide to induce labor if they observe that the head is no longer advancing in the pelvis of the mother or if it is not oriented healthily.

How do obstetricians typically employ the use of forceps?

The physician will introduce the hemostatic forceps in the pause that occurs between two contractions, and then place each of the branches gently on the baby’s head on either side. When a new contraction begins, he will instruct the expectant mother to push while he pulls gently on the forceps to bring the baby’s head down. When the doctor determines that the position of the baby can finally be considered ideal, he will remove the forceps so that the delivery can proceed normally.

Even when forceps are utilized, there are instances in which the baby’s head does not descend far enough. In this scenario, the gynecologist will not insist on performing a cesarean section and will instead proceed with the birth.

What are the repercussions of using forceps?

For the Mom:

Since the use of forceps is performed under anesthesia and frequently also under epidural, the process of giving birth with this method is completely painless for the woman who is giving birth. On the other hand, hemostatic forceps are responsible for an episiotomy in the vast majority of births. This can occasionally result in sores appearing on the genital tract. Therefore, perineal rehabilitation plays an important part in the process of toning the perineum.

Concerning the Infants:

There is a risk of leaving red marks on the baby’s ears and temples when using forceps. Nonetheless, you will feel less of these in the days and weeks after the baby is born. Know that you can consult with an osteopath after having an “instrumental birth,” if that is something you desire.