Regarding vacuum-assisted delivery (ventouse), which of the following is a MATERNAL indication (not a fetal contraindication) for preferring forceps over ventouse?
- A Gestational age less than 34 weeks
- B Face presentation ✓
- C Suspected cephalopelvic disproportion
- D Previous fetal scalp blood sampling
Correct answer: B. Face presentation
Explanation
Face presentation (mentoanterior) is a contraindication to ventouse because the cup cannot be correctly applied to the flexion point (occiput), but Kielland's forceps can be used for suitable face presentations. Gestational age <34 weeks is a contraindication to ventouse (risk of cephalhaematoma, subgaleal haemorrhage). Previous scalp blood sampling is a relative contraindication to ventouse. Suspected CPD is a contraindication to both. Option B is the specific indication to prefer forceps over ventouse.
Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.