A medical procedure used to assist vaginal delivery when there is a need to expedite the delivery of the fetus due to obstructed labor or fetal distress. A medical instrument called a forceps (specialized forceps) is used to gently guide the fetus's head through the birth canal. It is performed under local or epidural anesthesia and is considered safe when performed by an experienced physician. It may cause some minor bruising to the fetus or mother.
