Forceps deliveries in Scotland: current practice, training opportunities and national trends

Abstract

We discuss the contemporary practice of forceps delivery in Scotland, a country with affluent experience in operative vaginal birth. Globally, the popularity of forceps has significantly declined and undeniably it is considered by many a lost art. As a result, the volume and the complexity of the attempted forceps deliveries have lessened and more women undergo high-risk second-stage caesarean sections. Therefore, we have to draw our attention to realistic alternatives such as reinstating the skill of assisted delivery. Introducing these techniques in modern obstetrics can be a challenging task. The rates of forceps deliveries remain stable in Scotland, despite the opposite experience from most other countries. This paper is based on reviewing relevant guidelines and official national statistics. Forceps still have a place in modern obstetric practice in order to shorten labour when clinically indicated. Obstacles to forceps delivery are broadly due to the potential harm and the subsequent related medico-legal implications. Since the availability of specialists with substantial experience has been reduced, it sounds of paramount importance to conserve the learning of this valuable obstetric technique. Even more, initiatives that appoint future generations of obstetricians with expertise in performing forceps deliveries are an urgent educational priority. International recommendations and high-quality local workshops can facilitate this path.