Vacuum extraction

A vacuum extraction is a procedure sometimes done during the course of vaginal childbirth.During vacuum extraction, a health care provider applies the vacuum - a soft or rigid cup with a handle and a vacuum pump - to the baby's head to help guide the baby out of the birth canal. This is typically done during a contraction while the mother pushes.Your health care provider might recommend vacuum extraction during the second stage of labor - when you're pushing - if labor isn't progressing or if the baby's health depends on an immediate delivery.Vacuum extraction poses a risk of injury for both mother and baby. If vacuum extraction fails, a cesarean delivery (C-section) might be needed.