When a baby is not in exactly the right position for delivery, a mom is not able to push adequately, or if there's a need to speed up the delivery because the baby may be having some difficulty, the provider may decide to "assist" the delivery. Forceps or a vacuum can be used to help move things along.

Forceps are gently curved metal instruments that are applied along side the baby's head during the pushing stage of labor. They help the provider to gently pull in order to assist the baby's birth. Forceps are used when mother is too exhausted to push, or when the baby's heart rate is showing a stress pattern and delivery needs be accomplished quickly. Sometimes forceps can cause bruising to the infant's head or injury to mom’s cervix and vagina, so your provider will make every effort to avoid using them.

The vacuum is a plastic suction cup that is placed on the baby's head. This cup has tubing attached that allows suction to be applied to the baby's head. While the mother pushes, the provider will gently pull on the suction cup handle to help the baby be delivered. The suction cup may cause bruising or skin discoloration, which will disappear within a few days.