Obstetrical Forceps
Credit LineGift from St. Joseph's Health Care London, 2008
Object number2008.005.131
Label TextDifferent types of forceps are specialized for specific tissues and functions. Though rarely used today, obstetrical forceps were used in childbirth since the 14th-century. The blades are positioned around the head of the fetus to rotate their heads and assist them through the birth canal when there are difficulties during labor. Today, it is more likely that a vacuum extractor will be used, or a cesarean section will be performed when delivery interventions are needed during labor.
NameForceps, Obstetrical