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Forceps Delivery Injuries

You may be entitled to compensation if you or a loved one suffered an injury due to the incorrect or inappropriate use of forceps or other obstetric instruments.

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We’re industry experts with over 20 years of experience.

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No Win No Fee

You won’t be required to pay any fees until we win your case.

5 star client rating icon

5-Star Client Rating

You’ll receive outstanding service. We maintain a 5-star client rating.

Free Case Assessments

Free Case Assessments

We provide confidential, free case assessments.

Industry Experts

Industry Experts

We’re industry experts with over 20 years of experience.

No Win No Fee

No Win No Fee

You won’t be required to pay any fees until we win your case.

Forceps Delivery Claims

Many women have uneventful pregnancies, which progress to uncomplicated labour and safe delivery of their child. However, sometimes, a woman’s labour is prolonged or fails to progress to delivery. Some women may experience contractions for several days without progress. Some circumstances require the obstetric team to terminate the labour and deliver the baby via a Caesarean section to avoid injury to both mother and child.  

Sadly, there are times when the necessity of a Caesarean section is not recognised, and labour is allowed to continue. At some point during the labour, it becomes apparent that the baby’s head is failing to descend the birth canal as expected. The obstetric team might find themselves in a position where the baby must be expeditiously delivered to avoid compromise and injury, but a Caesarean section is no longer an option given the progress of the labour at that stage. Internal maneuvers or rotations of the baby in the birth canal are sometimes attempted to position the baby to facilitate descent down the birth canal and delivery. In addition to those maneuvers, instruments are utilised to facilitate the delivery of the baby’s head. Many women do not suffer injury due to forceps and many babies are successfully delivered with the aid of forceps.

There can be no dispute that an instrumental delivery is sometimes necessary and can save a baby’s life and prevent the baby’s compromise by avoiding delivery delays. However, forceps must be appropriately used and correctly applied to prevent injury to mother and child. Otherwise, women can sustain serious and possibly permanent birth canal and pelvic injuries, requiring long-term medical and surgical treatment. Such injuries could be life-changing for those women, and some women could lose a significant volume of blood, which could be life-threatening. Babies could also suffer serious injuries due to lacerations caused by forceps or other injuries caused by inappropriate forceps placement. Some babies may even sustain significant injuries due to excessive pressure and force in using forceps that could cause bleeding or injury to a baby’s skull.

Would you like assistance with your claim?

Complete our free, no obligation confidential case assessment form and we’ll get back to you within 24 hours.

Alternatively, we are available to talk by phone and email. Please contact our experienced accredited specialist personal injury lawyers to find out how we can help.

No Win No Fee

You won’t be required to pay any fees until we win your case.

Industry Experts

We’re industry experts with over 20 years of experience.

Maximum Compensation

Our team of expert injury lawyers will help you get maximum compensation.

Alina S.
03:51 26 Mar 26
I can’t thank Mr Garling and his team enough for the incredible support they provided throughout my case. From the very beginning, they showed genuine compassion, professionalism, and a strong... commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for me - and the result they achieved in the end was far beyond my expectations!What stood out most was their clear and prompt communication, customer-focused approach and kindness. At every stage, they made sure I understood what was happening and what to expect. This made a very difficult and emotionally challenging process a lot more manageable. Whenever I had questions or felt anxious they were responsive, patient, and reassuring.Thanks to Mr Garling, I felt empowered and confident navigating the complex, opaque and overwhelming workers compensation system. His dedication and expertise, along with the hard work of his entire team, helped me achieve an outstanding outcome.I cannot recommend Garling & Co highly enough, to anyone in need of personal injury legal assistance, and especially those dealing with a workplace injury / workcover. You’ll be in very capable and caring hands!read more
sidney C.
02:14 05 Mar 26
From the Moment we seek out a lawyer all we expect from them is Honest,Efficient,Competentce,and Dedication.I Found All of That in These Lawers.
YKHADZ
00:11 25 Feb 26
I can’t thank Garling & Co lawyers enough!they turned what felt like an impossible situation into a life changing result.After my back injury forced me to stop working, I was terrified about how... I’d support my family.Kerry, Myriel and the team kept me updated every step without me having to chase. If you’re considering a TPD claim and feel like the insurer is making it deliberately hard, do yourself a favour and call these guys first. They know exactly what evidence matters and they fight hard without ever making you feel like just another file.Highly recommend worth every single star!!!Thanks again Kerry, Myriel & the team absolute legends 🙏read more
Howard P.
00:54 23 Feb 26
So thrilled with Garling & Co. Particularly Kerry Byrnes. Right from the first time I called for some advice to our favourable outcome she has had a listening ear, empathy and on the money with all... of her advice. I would gladly recommend their services.read more
Fiona C.
05:55 19 Feb 26
I cannot speak highly enough of my experience with this workers Compensation team. When I first reached out, I was completely overwhelmed and unsure about the process. I hit rock bottom - unable to... return to work, struggling emotionally, and feeling like I had no direction. From the very beginning, the solicitors were nothing short of amazing. They were patient, understanding and incredibly supportive at a time when I needed it most. They took the time to explain every step in a way I could understand, never making me feel rushed or alone. Their professionalism was matched only by their compassion and that combination made all the difference.Throughout the entire journey, I felt heard, respected and genuinely cared for. They fought for me when I didn’t have the strength to fight for myself and thanks to their dedication, I was able to get the outcome I needed to rebuild my life. If you’re unsure, scared or feeling lost like I was, I can confidently say you will be in the best hands with this team. They helped me through one of the hardest chapters of my life, and I am truly grateful. I can’t thank or recommend Garling & Co Lawyers enough.read more
E.B
01:02 04 Feb 26
We initially contacted Matthew after my husband’s injury, he was so helpful and gave us all the information about my husband’s workers comp situation, he took the time and explained where my husband... was at with his claim and what we needed to do moving forward. This was even before we became a client which was refreshing and honest… Navigating a workers compensation claim is hard and really confusing, the team at Garling and co are so helpful and professional they really make the process easy and smooth!! We knew we could always call or email and ask questions about anything at any time. My husband doesn’t speak English fluently and Allison and Matthew catered to that in any ways possible.My husband was happy with the outcome of his claim, and he felt like he ended up with best possible outcome thanks to Matthew and the team.Thankyou Garling and Coread more
Alyssa F
08:02 31 Dec 25
Matthew Garling and his team have provided incredible support and guidance throughout my MVA damages claim this year, and I can’t thank them enough for making this journey feel like such a breeze.... When I initially engaged Garling & co, I had no understanding of what was ahead. I was anxious and unsure about the process, while also navigating the physical challenges of my injuries. With assurance that my matter was being handled with high level of expertise, professionalism and integrity, I was able to focus on recovery instead. Throughout the process, Matthew and Allison have been honest, straightforward and efficient in all communication; being a supportive buffer in all dealings with the insurer, and consistently committed to a successful outcome. The outcome was excellent, and it is with huge relief and great thanks that I can put this matter behind me. I would highly recommend the services of Garling and co for any injury claims of a similar nature, and I’m forever grateful to Matthew and his team.read more
David Y
21:33 15 Dec 25
A big thank you to Matthew for his expertise, dedication, and genuine care in handling my matter. The outcome exceeded my expectations, and I am truly grateful for the excellent work of his entire... team. Outstanding results - highly recommended.read more
Richard R.
07:58 02 Dec 25
I needed urgent, clear advice regarding a Workers Compensation claim and "cold-called" Garling & Co.I was put through to Kerry Byrnes, and from that moment, my stress began to lift.I explained my... scenario which was causing me huge anxiety and Kerry listened intently. She provided simple, clear, and authoritative advice on my legal standing, the correct next steps, and what to realistically expect.Crucially, she reassured me that everything I had done to that point was correct.This initial consultation, which I later learned was provided at no cost, gave me perfect guidance and an immense sense of relief.There is truly no price you can put on that level of reassurance and peace of mind from an expert and Kerry delivered both instantly.Should my claim proceed and I need further legal insight, I will choose Kerry and the team at Garling & Co without hesitation.Their focus is clearly on the client and getting the right outcome.I recommend Kerry and the firm 100%.Thank you, Kerry!read more
Graeme M.
04:22 29 Oct 25
Matthew Garling and his team have been excellent in dealing with my case. I am very happy with the result and the process to guide me through everything over the last two years. Most importantly... happy with the payout. Highly recommend if you’re thinking of claiming for an injury caused by another party.read more

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the common types of injuries that can occur during a forceps delivery?

Forceps delivery complications can cause birth injuries to mother and child. Since the forceps are clamped onto the newborn’s head, improper use can cause brain damage and other injuries with different levels of severity. 

Forceps delivery complications put babies at an increased risk of:

  • Bleeding in the skull
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Jaundice
  • Seizures
  • Skull fractures
  • Small bumps or bruises on the baby’s head
  • Small cuts or lacerations on the baby’s face
  • Temporary facial muscle weakness (facial palsy)

Maternal birth injuries caused by complications from a forceps delivery are more common than injuries to the child.

A forceps delivery can cause mothers to suffer:

  • Blood clots in legs or pelvis veins
  • Injuries to the bladder
  • Long-term or short-term fecal or urinary incontinence
  • Pain in the tissue between the vagina and anus (perineum)
  • Uterine rupture
  • Vaginal or rectal tears
  • Weakened pelvic muscles or ligaments resulting in dropped organs (pelvic organ prolapse)

2. How can I determine if medical negligence played a role in a forceps delivery injury?

If you or your child suffered an injury while giving birth and the injury has persisted and you suspect that the injury was avoidable, it is wise to seek legal advice from an experienced specialist birth injury solicitor. Your solicitor will investigate the level of care that was provided to you and your child during your pregnancy, labour and delivery, and will provide you with advice on the viability of your claim.

3. What legal options do I have if my child has sustained a forceps delivery injury?

Your child may be entitled to compensation for injuries sustained as a result of inappropriate use, or incorrect application of, forceps or other instruments. You must contact an experienced forceps delivery injury solicitor to explore your options and your child’s entitlement to compensation.

More Faqs
Alina S.
03:51 26 Mar 26
I can’t thank Mr Garling and his team enough for the incredible support they provided throughout my case. From the very beginning, they showed genuine compassion, professionalism, and a strong... commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for me - and the result they achieved in the end was far beyond my expectations!What stood out most was their clear and prompt communication, customer-focused approach and kindness. At every stage, they made sure I understood what was happening and what to expect. This made a very difficult and emotionally challenging process a lot more manageable. Whenever I had questions or felt anxious they were responsive, patient, and reassuring.Thanks to Mr Garling, I felt empowered and confident navigating the complex, opaque and overwhelming workers compensation system. His dedication and expertise, along with the hard work of his entire team, helped me achieve an outstanding outcome.I cannot recommend Garling & Co highly enough, to anyone in need of personal injury legal assistance, and especially those dealing with a workplace injury / workcover. You’ll be in very capable and caring hands!read more
sidney C.
02:14 05 Mar 26
From the Moment we seek out a lawyer all we expect from them is Honest,Efficient,Competentce,and Dedication.I Found All of That in These Lawers.
YKHADZ
00:11 25 Feb 26
I can’t thank Garling & Co lawyers enough!they turned what felt like an impossible situation into a life changing result.After my back injury forced me to stop working, I was terrified about how... I’d support my family.Kerry, Myriel and the team kept me updated every step without me having to chase. If you’re considering a TPD claim and feel like the insurer is making it deliberately hard, do yourself a favour and call these guys first. They know exactly what evidence matters and they fight hard without ever making you feel like just another file.Highly recommend worth every single star!!!Thanks again Kerry, Myriel & the team absolute legends 🙏read more
Howard P.
00:54 23 Feb 26
So thrilled with Garling & Co. Particularly Kerry Byrnes. Right from the first time I called for some advice to our favourable outcome she has had a listening ear, empathy and on the money with all... of her advice. I would gladly recommend their services.read more
Fiona C.
05:55 19 Feb 26
I cannot speak highly enough of my experience with this workers Compensation team. When I first reached out, I was completely overwhelmed and unsure about the process. I hit rock bottom - unable to... return to work, struggling emotionally, and feeling like I had no direction. From the very beginning, the solicitors were nothing short of amazing. They were patient, understanding and incredibly supportive at a time when I needed it most. They took the time to explain every step in a way I could understand, never making me feel rushed or alone. Their professionalism was matched only by their compassion and that combination made all the difference.Throughout the entire journey, I felt heard, respected and genuinely cared for. They fought for me when I didn’t have the strength to fight for myself and thanks to their dedication, I was able to get the outcome I needed to rebuild my life. If you’re unsure, scared or feeling lost like I was, I can confidently say you will be in the best hands with this team. They helped me through one of the hardest chapters of my life, and I am truly grateful. I can’t thank or recommend Garling & Co Lawyers enough.read more
E.B
01:02 04 Feb 26
We initially contacted Matthew after my husband’s injury, he was so helpful and gave us all the information about my husband’s workers comp situation, he took the time and explained where my husband... was at with his claim and what we needed to do moving forward. This was even before we became a client which was refreshing and honest… Navigating a workers compensation claim is hard and really confusing, the team at Garling and co are so helpful and professional they really make the process easy and smooth!! We knew we could always call or email and ask questions about anything at any time. My husband doesn’t speak English fluently and Allison and Matthew catered to that in any ways possible.My husband was happy with the outcome of his claim, and he felt like he ended up with best possible outcome thanks to Matthew and the team.Thankyou Garling and Coread more
Alyssa F
08:02 31 Dec 25
Matthew Garling and his team have provided incredible support and guidance throughout my MVA damages claim this year, and I can’t thank them enough for making this journey feel like such a breeze.... When I initially engaged Garling & co, I had no understanding of what was ahead. I was anxious and unsure about the process, while also navigating the physical challenges of my injuries. With assurance that my matter was being handled with high level of expertise, professionalism and integrity, I was able to focus on recovery instead. Throughout the process, Matthew and Allison have been honest, straightforward and efficient in all communication; being a supportive buffer in all dealings with the insurer, and consistently committed to a successful outcome. The outcome was excellent, and it is with huge relief and great thanks that I can put this matter behind me. I would highly recommend the services of Garling and co for any injury claims of a similar nature, and I’m forever grateful to Matthew and his team.read more
David Y
21:33 15 Dec 25
A big thank you to Matthew for his expertise, dedication, and genuine care in handling my matter. The outcome exceeded my expectations, and I am truly grateful for the excellent work of his entire... team. Outstanding results - highly recommended.read more
Richard R.
07:58 02 Dec 25
I needed urgent, clear advice regarding a Workers Compensation claim and "cold-called" Garling & Co.I was put through to Kerry Byrnes, and from that moment, my stress began to lift.I explained my... scenario which was causing me huge anxiety and Kerry listened intently. She provided simple, clear, and authoritative advice on my legal standing, the correct next steps, and what to realistically expect.Crucially, she reassured me that everything I had done to that point was correct.This initial consultation, which I later learned was provided at no cost, gave me perfect guidance and an immense sense of relief.There is truly no price you can put on that level of reassurance and peace of mind from an expert and Kerry delivered both instantly.Should my claim proceed and I need further legal insight, I will choose Kerry and the team at Garling & Co without hesitation.Their focus is clearly on the client and getting the right outcome.I recommend Kerry and the firm 100%.Thank you, Kerry!read more
Graeme M.
04:22 29 Oct 25
Matthew Garling and his team have been excellent in dealing with my case. I am very happy with the result and the process to guide me through everything over the last two years. Most importantly... happy with the payout. Highly recommend if you’re thinking of claiming for an injury caused by another party.read more

Seek Other Medical Negligence Claims

Would you like assistance with your claim?

Complete our free, no obligation confidential case assessment form and we’ll get back to you within 24 hours.

Alternatively, we are available to talk through phone and email. Please contact our experienced workers compensation lawyers to find out how we can help.

No Win No Fee

You won’t be required to pay any fees until we win your case.

Industry Experts

We’re industry experts with over 20 years of experience.

Maximum Compensation

Our team of expert injury lawyers will help you get maximum compensation.

Alina S.
03:51 26 Mar 26
I can’t thank Mr Garling and his team enough for the incredible support they provided throughout my case. From the very beginning, they showed genuine compassion, professionalism, and a strong... commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for me - and the result they achieved in the end was far beyond my expectations!What stood out most was their clear and prompt communication, customer-focused approach and kindness. At every stage, they made sure I understood what was happening and what to expect. This made a very difficult and emotionally challenging process a lot more manageable. Whenever I had questions or felt anxious they were responsive, patient, and reassuring.Thanks to Mr Garling, I felt empowered and confident navigating the complex, opaque and overwhelming workers compensation system. His dedication and expertise, along with the hard work of his entire team, helped me achieve an outstanding outcome.I cannot recommend Garling & Co highly enough, to anyone in need of personal injury legal assistance, and especially those dealing with a workplace injury / workcover. You’ll be in very capable and caring hands!read more
sidney C.
02:14 05 Mar 26
From the Moment we seek out a lawyer all we expect from them is Honest,Efficient,Competentce,and Dedication.I Found All of That in These Lawers.
YKHADZ
00:11 25 Feb 26
I can’t thank Garling & Co lawyers enough!they turned what felt like an impossible situation into a life changing result.After my back injury forced me to stop working, I was terrified about how... I’d support my family.Kerry, Myriel and the team kept me updated every step without me having to chase. If you’re considering a TPD claim and feel like the insurer is making it deliberately hard, do yourself a favour and call these guys first. They know exactly what evidence matters and they fight hard without ever making you feel like just another file.Highly recommend worth every single star!!!Thanks again Kerry, Myriel & the team absolute legends 🙏read more
Howard P.
00:54 23 Feb 26
So thrilled with Garling & Co. Particularly Kerry Byrnes. Right from the first time I called for some advice to our favourable outcome she has had a listening ear, empathy and on the money with all... of her advice. I would gladly recommend their services.read more
Fiona C.
05:55 19 Feb 26
I cannot speak highly enough of my experience with this workers Compensation team. When I first reached out, I was completely overwhelmed and unsure about the process. I hit rock bottom - unable to... return to work, struggling emotionally, and feeling like I had no direction. From the very beginning, the solicitors were nothing short of amazing. They were patient, understanding and incredibly supportive at a time when I needed it most. They took the time to explain every step in a way I could understand, never making me feel rushed or alone. Their professionalism was matched only by their compassion and that combination made all the difference.Throughout the entire journey, I felt heard, respected and genuinely cared for. They fought for me when I didn’t have the strength to fight for myself and thanks to their dedication, I was able to get the outcome I needed to rebuild my life. If you’re unsure, scared or feeling lost like I was, I can confidently say you will be in the best hands with this team. They helped me through one of the hardest chapters of my life, and I am truly grateful. I can’t thank or recommend Garling & Co Lawyers enough.read more
E.B
01:02 04 Feb 26
We initially contacted Matthew after my husband’s injury, he was so helpful and gave us all the information about my husband’s workers comp situation, he took the time and explained where my husband... was at with his claim and what we needed to do moving forward. This was even before we became a client which was refreshing and honest… Navigating a workers compensation claim is hard and really confusing, the team at Garling and co are so helpful and professional they really make the process easy and smooth!! We knew we could always call or email and ask questions about anything at any time. My husband doesn’t speak English fluently and Allison and Matthew catered to that in any ways possible.My husband was happy with the outcome of his claim, and he felt like he ended up with best possible outcome thanks to Matthew and the team.Thankyou Garling and Coread more
Alyssa F
08:02 31 Dec 25
Matthew Garling and his team have provided incredible support and guidance throughout my MVA damages claim this year, and I can’t thank them enough for making this journey feel like such a breeze.... When I initially engaged Garling & co, I had no understanding of what was ahead. I was anxious and unsure about the process, while also navigating the physical challenges of my injuries. With assurance that my matter was being handled with high level of expertise, professionalism and integrity, I was able to focus on recovery instead. Throughout the process, Matthew and Allison have been honest, straightforward and efficient in all communication; being a supportive buffer in all dealings with the insurer, and consistently committed to a successful outcome. The outcome was excellent, and it is with huge relief and great thanks that I can put this matter behind me. I would highly recommend the services of Garling and co for any injury claims of a similar nature, and I’m forever grateful to Matthew and his team.read more
David Y
21:33 15 Dec 25
A big thank you to Matthew for his expertise, dedication, and genuine care in handling my matter. The outcome exceeded my expectations, and I am truly grateful for the excellent work of his entire... team. Outstanding results - highly recommended.read more
Richard R.
07:58 02 Dec 25
I needed urgent, clear advice regarding a Workers Compensation claim and "cold-called" Garling & Co.I was put through to Kerry Byrnes, and from that moment, my stress began to lift.I explained my... scenario which was causing me huge anxiety and Kerry listened intently. She provided simple, clear, and authoritative advice on my legal standing, the correct next steps, and what to realistically expect.Crucially, she reassured me that everything I had done to that point was correct.This initial consultation, which I later learned was provided at no cost, gave me perfect guidance and an immense sense of relief.There is truly no price you can put on that level of reassurance and peace of mind from an expert and Kerry delivered both instantly.Should my claim proceed and I need further legal insight, I will choose Kerry and the team at Garling & Co without hesitation.Their focus is clearly on the client and getting the right outcome.I recommend Kerry and the firm 100%.Thank you, Kerry!read more
Graeme M.
04:22 29 Oct 25
Matthew Garling and his team have been excellent in dealing with my case. I am very happy with the result and the process to guide me through everything over the last two years. Most importantly... happy with the payout. Highly recommend if you’re thinking of claiming for an injury caused by another party.read more
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