Forceps Delivery Injuries

The birth of a child should be a joyful occasion, but experiencing a birth injury can be overwhelming and distressing. Forceps delivery injuries can result in lasting harm to both mother and baby. If you or your baby suffered injury during delivery due to the improper use of forceps, you may be entitled to pursue a medical negligence claim.

At Macks Solicitors, our specialist medical negligence team provides expert guidance and compassionate support, helping families navigate the claims process with care, understanding, and clarity.

Free Initial Discussion

For no-obligation advice and information, call our specialist medical negligence solicitors today on 01642 843 671 or use our contact form and we will call you back.

What is a Forceps Delivery?

A forceps delivery occurs when a healthcare professional uses a pair of spoon-shaped instruments (forceps) to help guide the baby out of the birth canal during labour. Forceps may be necessary in certain emergencies, such as:

• Prolonged or difficult labour
• Signs of fetal distress
• Maternal exhaustion preventing safe delivery

While forceps can be lifesaving, improper use can cause serious injuries to both the baby and the mother.

Common Injuries from Forceps Delivery

Forceps delivery injuries can range from minor trauma to long-term complications. Common injuries include:

For the baby:

• Brachial plexus injuries – nerve damage affecting the arm or shoulder
• Facial nerve injury – leading to temporary or permanent facial weakness
• Fractures – most commonly the clavicle (collarbone)
• Head or scalp injuries – bruising, lacerations, or bleeding
• Oxygen deprivation (hypoxia) in severe cases

For the mother:

• Severe perineal or vaginal tears
• Pelvic injuries
• Postpartum haemorrhage

If you’ve been injured due to a forceps delivery, call our specialist medical negligence solicitors today on 01642 843 671 or use our contact form and we will call you back.

Can I Make a Claim for a Forceps Delivery Injury?

If your baby or you suffered harm due to substandard care during a forceps delivery, you may be entitled to make a claim. Our specialist solicitors will:

• Review your medical records and the delivery notes
• Seek independent expert medical advice
• Determine whether the standard of care fell below what should reasonably have been provided

We provide clear, practical advice and guide families through every step of the claims process.

What Can Compensation Cover?

Compensation for forceps delivery injuries can help cover:

• Medical care and ongoing treatment for your child or yourself
• Physical therapy or rehabilitation
• Pain, suffering, and emotional impact
• Loss of earnings or additional care costs
• Long-term support needs resulting from the injury

The exact amount and type of compensation will depend on the circumstances of the case.

Time Limits for Making a Claim

In most medical negligence cases, the standard time limit is three years from the date the injury occurred, or from when it was first discovered.

• For children, the three-year limit does not begin until they turn 18, meaning a claim can be brought any time before their 21st birthday.
• If the injured person lacks mental capacity, the time limit may not apply.

It is important to seek advice as soon as possible to protect evidence and support your claim.

How Macks Can Help

We will thoroughly explore your case and determine the best course of action that is tailored to your specific needs. We will discuss the funding arrangement that best suits your case and provide you with efficient, practical advice.

Contact us

For more information about making a forceps delivery injury claim, you can call us on 01642 843 667; alternatively, complete our online contact form and one of our solicitors will be in touch.