Labor and Delivery

Vacuum Extraction

Gentle suction can sometimes help a baby out.

Labor procedures and interventions

An alternative to forceps delivery is a vacuum extractor — a metal or plastic cup attached to the baby's head that uses suction to help guide him or her out of the birth canal. The vacuum extractor prevents the baby's head from moving back up the birth canal between contractions and can be used to assist the mother while she is pushing during contractions. Vacuum extraction is becoming more popular in obstetrical practices and offers a good alternative to both forceps and C-section under the right circumstances.
The indications for vacuum extraction are the same as forceps — and while both are safe if performed by experienced practitioners, vacuum deliveries are associated with less trauma to the vagina (and possibly a lower chance of needing an episiotomy) and less need for anesthesia. Babies born with vacuum extraction may experience some swelling on the scalp, but it is not serious, doesn't require treatment, and usually goes away within a few days.

As with forceps, if the vacuum extractor isn't working successfully to help deliver the baby, a cesarean birth is recommended.


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