Childbirth is a delicate time for both the mother and the baby. Doctors sometimes use tools to assist in the delivery process.
One of these tools is forceps, which are metal instruments that look like large tongs. While forceps can help deliver a baby safely, their misuse can cause significant harm to both the mother and the baby.
Noticing risks to the baby
One of the most serious risks for babies is head trauma. Forceps apply pressure to the baby’s head to guide it through the birth canal. If the doctor uses too much force or positions the forceps incorrectly, the baby’s skull or brain can get injured. This trauma can result in conditions like cerebral palsy, which affects movement and muscle coordination.
Another risk includes facial injuries. Forceps can cause bruising or cuts on the baby’s face and head. In some cases, the pressure from forceps may damage the facial nerves, leading to temporary or permanent facial paralysis. Additionally, the misuse of forceps can cause eye injuries during birth, including bleeding in the eyes.
Identifying risks to the mother
One major risk is vaginal tearing. When forceps are not used correctly, they can cause deep tears in the vaginal and perineal areas. These tears can lead to severe pain, infections and long-term problems with urinary or fecal incontinence. Forceps can accidentally harm the bladder or rectum, causing complications that might require surgery to repair.
To avoid these risks, proper training and experience are important for any doctor using forceps. Healthcare professionals need to recognize when it is appropriate to use forceps and when to opt for other delivery methods, such as a cesarean section. People facing birth injuries may want to seek fair compensation.
