Forceps are large metal tools, somewhat like a pair of spoons. They fit together around the baby's head inside the birth canal.

A doctor then pulls as the mother pushes during contractions to speed up the birth process.

Forceps might be needed to help the mother to give birth if perhaps she becomes too tired or if the baby is in an unusual position.

Different types of forceps exist to fulfill different requirements. Some are only used when the baby needs to be turned around before delivery for example.

A forceps delivery is more invasive than using ventouse. However, forceps are more likely to be successful at getting the baby out and thus preventing the need for a caesarean.

Therefore if the baby is in distress and has to come out quickly forceps will probably be the preferred option.

When forceps are needed, if the mother has not had an epidural, she will be given a local anaesthetic.

An episiotomy (a cut in the perineum to allow the forceps to fit) will be done which will need to be stitched after the birth. The mother will need to be in stirrups.

There may be some minor injury to the mother after a forceps delivery causing soreness, numbness, or urine incontinence. Pelvic floor exercises can help.

The baby will have a bruised face and head, and very occasionally may suffer temporary facial paralysis if a nerve is damaged.

Around one on eight women require an assisted delivery, with either the help of forceps or ventouse, in this country.

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