It may be assumed that the proper application of forceps to the fetal head can help preserve the integrity of the cranial structure by assisting in the normal completion of the mechanism of labor. However, the recognized pathologic alterations in normal physiology of the fetus during labor and delivery must be borne in mind. The degree of compression must be minimized so that the balance will be in favor of the amount of stress resulting from forceps use, as compared to the forces at work during spontaneous expulsion.