What is forceps injury?
Forceps delivery injuries include bruising, facial palsies, and even brain damage and cerebral palsy in newborns. Doctors use forceps to aid delivery but use too much force in some cases. Inappropriate use of this instrument can result in lasting harm to a child.
What damage can forceps do?
While using forceps is considered a safe procedure, forceps can cause brain damage during delivery. One of the most common and severe injuries is cerebral palsy. This disorder can affect the movement, balance, and muscle tone of the baby.
Can forceps cause permanent damage?
There is a risk of serious and permanent birth injury due to forceps delivery. Excessive pressure on the infant’s soft skull is all it takes to cause irreparable brain damage. Cerebral palsy is one example of the type of permanent disability that can result from a forceps delivery.
Can forceps damage vagina?
A forceps delivery can possibly cause risk of injury for both mother and baby. Possible risks to you include: Pain in the perineum — the tissue between your vagina and your anus — after delivery. Lower genital tract tears.
What does forceps look like?
Forceps are smooth metal instruments that look like large spoons or tongs. They’re curved to fit around the baby’s head. The forceps are carefully positioned around your baby’s head and joined together at the handles.
How long does it take to recover from forceps delivery?
The time taken to recover is usually 6-8 weeks, but some women may take longer to recover. Most patients can resume light daily activities in a few days. Patients experience vaginal bleeding for a few days to weeks after delivery for which they would have to wear a sanitary napkin.
Is forceps a natural birth?
An assisted birth (also known as an instrumental delivery) is when forceps or a ventouse suction cup are used to help deliver the baby. Ventouse and forceps are safe and only used when necessary for you and your baby. Assisted delivery is less common in women who’ve had a spontaneous vaginal birth before.