Before initating vacuum delivery, there are three things an ob/gyn should focus on:

: Do not attempt if not confident or lacking adequate experience

: Vertex, engaged fetal head, at least ‘0’ station

: Written consent whenever possible. If oral, discuss potential fetal and maternal risks of the vacuum delivery including but not limited to scalp injuries, cephalohematoma, subgaleal hemorrhage, intracranial hemorrhage and retinal hemorrhage in the fetus and urinary tract as well as anal sphincter injuries and risk of incontinence in the mother

Rigid mushroom cup (also called the M cup)

Remember “flexion point” (imaginary point on the sagittal suture which is 2 cm anterior to posterior fontanelle or 3 cm posterior to the anterior fontanelle

Releasing and maintaining pressure between pulls are both acceptable

No more than 3 pop offs, 3 sets of pulls with no descent, and no more than 30 minutes of total application time

Will vacuum delivery go the way of vaginal breech delivery?

Labor and Delivery

Going through this short checklist can help minimize risk and ensure a successful delivery.