Forceps-assisted vaginal delivery: the landscape of obstetrics and gynecology resident training

The objective of this study was to determine the current landscape of forceps-assisted vaginal delivery (FAVD) training in the USA (US) amongst obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) residents. We investigated national and regionalization of resident interest by trainee level and skill acquisition in a climate of FAVD decline.

An anonymous 20-question survey was distributed to US OB/GYN residency programs. Census Bureau-designated regions were used. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze survey responses. Respondents were compared by postgraduate year (PGY) and region.

The survey was completed by 434 OB/GYN residents over one academic year with representation from all US regions. PGY-3 and PGY-4 residents completed statistically significant more FAVDs compared to PGY-1 and PGY-2 residents combined (p < 0.0001). By region, there was a significant difference in the number of FAVDs completed. The Midwest performed the most and Northeast performed the least (p < .0001). There was a statistically significant difference in simulation experiences by PGY (p < .0001) and by region (p = .0003) and in selfreported preparedness to perform FAVDs independently by PGY and by region.

Residents are motivated to learn FAVD. Our study is the first to demonstrate that residents are not obtaining adequate experience irrespective of geographic region. Current training should implement simulation and continued acquisition of training in FAVD.