Instrumental vaginal delivery--back to basics

Assisted vaginal delivery using forceps or a vacuum extractor is an essential part of obstetric practice. Operative vaginal delivery rates in the UK have remained stable between 10% and 15%, yielding safe and satisfactory outcomes for the majority of mothers and their babies. However, there has been an increase in medico-legal cases due to an increasing awareness of the potential morbidity for both the mother and the baby. There are many factors that can play a part in both the maternal and fetal complications resulting from instrumental deliveries. The aim of this educational review is to address these factors and identify measures to reduce them by adherence to the basics and relevant evidence.