Medical Uni References – Pregnancy Issue and Contraceptive Prevalence Rate

Forceps Forced Delivery

Forceps look like large sugar tongs and are designed so that they will fit snugly over the sides of the baby’s head, covering the ears. They are rather like a cage and protect the head from any pressure within the birth canal.

The decision to use forceps is a medical one. Forceps are only applied when the first stage is complete, the cervix is fully dilated and the head is in the birth canal

Why it is done

Forceps are used when the baby`s head has descended into the mothers pelvis but fails to descend further; when the baby is presenting in a posterior position; in a breech delivery (see opposite); when the uterus fails to maintain contractions; and when the mother lacks the strength to push out her baby. Nowadays, nearly all premature babies are delivered by forceps to protect their delicate skulls from being compressed in the birth canal.

How it is done

You will be asked to lie on your back and your legs will be put up in stirrups. A local anaesthetic will be injected into your perineum, and an episiotomy performed. Then the forceps will be inserted into your vagina one at a time. A few gentle pulls on the forceps, 30-40 seconds at a time, will bring your baby`s head out. The rest of his body will be delivered as usual

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Certain procedures historically associated with childbirth are being re-evaluated. Some have been found to be unnecessary, others unjustified. However, most of today`s obstetricians believe that they can guarantee that childbirth is a safer and happier experience for a mother and her baby with the help of modern technology.

By drawing your attention to the arguments con­cerning some standard medical practices, this will help you to question them assertively with your medical and nursing attendants. More often than not, your wishes will be complied with, especially if you have written a birth plan in advance, but occasionally you will be told that to continue with a particular option will put you or your baby at serious risk — for instance, if your baby is showing signs of distress and you fight to continue with a totally natural childbirth. Be prepared to adapt your ideas.

Shaving

Nowadays, shaving is unnecessary unless you are having a Caesarean section. Any chance of infection can be eliminated by wiping the vulva with gauze and simply spraying with an antiseptic.

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