What is the role of forceps during childbirth?

The role of forceps during childbirth is to assist in the delivery of the baby. Forceps are specially designed surgical instruments that resemble a pair of large tongs. They are used primarily to grip and guide the baby's head during the birthing process when there is a need for assistance, such as when the mother is unable to push effectively or when the baby is in a difficult position.

Using forceps can help to ensure a safer and more controlled delivery, reducing the risk of trauma to both the mother and the baby. This intervention may be considered in situations where the labor is prolonged or if there are concerns about fetal distress.

The other roles mentioned, such as monitoring fetal health, inducing labor, or providing anesthesia, are managed by different tools or medical practices and do not relate to the physical assistance provided by forceps during delivery. Each of these processes plays a vital role in childbirth, but they operate through different mechanisms than the use of forceps.