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Forceps and Vacuum Delivery Injury Claims in Ireland

Forceps injury claims in Ireland can arise where forceps, vacuum or ventouse delivery causes injury to the baby, the mother or both.

Forceps and vacuum delivery, also known as instrumental or assisted delivery, are used to help deliver a baby safely. When these instruments are used inappropriately or with excessive force, they can cause injury to the baby, the mother or both. Where that happens, you may be able to bring a forceps or vacuum delivery injury claim. This page explains when these claims arise in Ireland.

What is an assisted delivery?

An assisted delivery uses either forceps or a vacuum device, sometimes called a ventouse, to help guide the baby out during the final stage of labour. Used correctly and in the right circumstances, these are recognised and often necessary procedures.

When the use of instruments may amount to negligence

Concerns may arise where:

  • Forceps or vacuum were used when they were not appropriate in the circumstances
  • Excessive or repeated force was applied
  • Repeated failed attempts were made before moving to a caesarean section
  • A caesarean section would have been the safer course from the outset

Injuries that can result

For the baby, an inappropriate assisted delivery can cause bruising, facial nerve injury, skull injury, brachial plexus injury or, in serious cases, bleeding within the skull. For the mother, it can cause severe perineal tearing and other trauma. The appropriate question in each case is whether the decision to use instruments, and the way they were used, met the expected standard.

How these claims are proven

The maternity records, the documented reasons for choosing an assisted delivery, and independent expert opinion on whether that choice and its execution were reasonable are the key evidence. We obtain and review this material before advising you.

Compensation

Compensation reflects the nature and severity of the injury, whether it is expected to resolve or persist, and any treatment, care or losses that follow. Each case is assessed individually.

Talk to us

To discuss your situation in confidence, call free on 1800 246442, email info@sweeneysolicitors.ie or book a video consultation. The initial consultation is free and there is no obligation. We have offices in Cork, Dublin and Limerick and advise clients nationwide.

This page is part of our wider guide to birth injury claims in Ireland. You may also wish to read about maternal birth injury claims or our birth injury FAQs.

Reviewed by David Sweeney, Solicitor, Sweeney Solicitors. Last reviewed June 2026

Disclaimer
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Disclaimer: This page is for general information only and is not legal advice. In contentious business a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.

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