What is a vacuum extractor?
A vacuum extractor is a tool made of soft pliable plastic. It is formed in the shape of a funnel and positioned on the crown of the baby’s head. Suction is used to hold the extractor in place. The vacuum extractor is used when the fetus descends into the birth canal during a contraction then returns to the vagina as the uterus relaxes. The tool is placed on the baby’s head and can be used to maintain the baby’s position until the next contraction. Ask you doctor about his preference for using a vacuum extractor or forceps.
