When do I need a forceps delivery?

Doctor's Answers 1

Forceps delivery is sometimes necessary during the second stage when the mum gets too exhausted to push further or if there is significant concern about the baby for example fetal distress which requires the baby to be delivered immediately. I tend to choose forceps when I feel the mum is not pushing well enough or baby is big. If mum is pushing well and there is good descent of the baby but mum still need helps eg with rotation of the foetal head, that's when I decide to use a vacuum extractor instead. Assisted delivery if done by a competent practitioner should not result in trauma to the child.

Therefore the decision for assisted delivery versus Caesarean section in the second stage is a very important one and this depends on the experience and competence of the obstetrician, as well as the mum’s preferences. These discussions should ideally be done prior to the birth during the pregnancy check-ups. This is because during the second stage decisions need to be made very quickly or it may be an emergency situation during which an extended discussion regarding pros and cons of assisted delivery versus Caesarean section may not be possible.

Similar Questions

Is Colchicine safe for breastfeeding mothers?

I do agree with what Dr Ethan and Dr Jasmine have written about the risk of colchicine in breastfeeding. For treatment of oral lichen planus, there are many other treatment options available apart from colchicine and you should speak to your doctor and raise your concerns about the use of colchicine while you are breast-feeding and explore if alternative options are available for you.

Photo of Dr Colin Theng

Answered By

Dr Colin Theng

Dermatologist

How should I choose a gynae in Singapore if I have just found out that I’m pregnant?

Congratulations! There are literally textbooks written about this, but I shall summarise them into 5 main pointers for you to take note of: 1. Calculate your due date You can use this due date calculator here. Most doctors will see you when you are about 8 weeks pregnant. 2. Take your vitamins You need to start taking your prenatal vitamins every day.

Photo of Human

Answered By

Human

Ask any health question for free

I’m not so sure about a procedure...

Ask Icon Ask a Question

Join Human

Sign up now for a free Human account to get answers from specialists in Singapore.

Sign Up

Get The Pill

Be healthier with our Bite-sized health news straight in your inbox