They found that one in 10 births involved the use of a vacuum or forceps.

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Polonski was able to loosen it with his finger and a tong-like instrument called Kocher forceps.

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Ms Keating was referred to Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford, where the dentures were removed with "really long forceps".

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It also makes the delivery of the baby more difficult, with caesarean sections and forceps deliveries more common.

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Woke up still in a catatonic state suffering from strange dreams (placenta and forceps featured heavily) and nerves.

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Ghoulish items up for grabs include rubber gloves, forceps and the hanger used to hold the singer's burial suit.

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They suggested doctors are now more likely to use either forceps or suction devices to aid delivery, or to give epidural pain relief.

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Dr Blott also stressed that the use of forceps, or other devices to aid birth was a relatively simple procedure, which many women would prefer to enduring pain over long periods.

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Community midwives in vintage costumes cycle through the East End of London with scissors and forceps in their bags, ready to deliver babies in the tough economic conditions of post-war Britain, the father often waiting outside.

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