Obstetric and Gynecological Nursing - The Carter Center

In the infant:
Bruising: Severe bruising will cause marked jaundice which
may be prolonged
Cerebral irritability - A traumatic forceps delivery may cause
cerebral edema or hemorrhage.
Cephal haematoma - is a swelling on the neonate's skull, an
effusion of blood under the periosteum covering it, due to
friction between the skull and pelvis.
Tentorial tear- results from compression of the fetal head by
the forceps. The compression causes elongation of the head
and consequent tearing of the tentorial membrane.
Facial palsy-occasionally the facial nerve may be damaged
since it is situated near the mastoid process where it has little
protection.
In the mother:
Bruising and trauma to the urethra this may cause dysuria
and occasionally haematuria or a period of urinary retention or
incontinence.
Vaginal and Perineal trauma the vaginal wall may be torn
during forceps delivery and the vagina must be inspected
carefully prior to perineal repair. The episiotomy may extend
or be accompanied by a further perinea tear and these must
be repaired with care. As with any damaged perineum there
may be bruising, oedema or occasionally haematoma
formation.
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