According to the ACOG classification of operative vaginal delivery, a MID-forceps procedure is defined as application when the fetal head is:

• A Engaged, at any station below the ischial spines
• B Engaged, at station 0 to +2 cm but not on the pelvic floor ✓
• C At station +3 or lower, with scalp visible at the introitus
• D Above the ischial spines but rotating easily with traction

Explanation

Operative vaginal deliveries are graded by station: outlet forceps when the skull has reached the pelvic floor with scalp visible at the introitus without separating the labia; low forceps when the leading point is at station +2 cm or beyond but not on the pelvic floor; and mid forceps when the head is engaged but above +2 cm. Application above zero station is termed high forceps, which has been abandoned in modern practice due to unacceptable maternal and fetal trauma.

Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.