In the past twenty years, the vacuum extractor has gained wide use in Europe with an associated decrease in perinatal mortality. There, its use is considered by many to be much safet than a forceps delivery. Certain complications are associated with its use, but in general these are minor and transitory. On analysis, most of the serious complications reported in the literature are considered to be due to other associated factors, or to misuse of the vacuum extractor. Experience with the vacuum extractor in the United States has been minimal, and most authors feel that there are few indications for its use. Perhaps it is time that obstetricians in the United States take a more careful look at the European experience, and give the vacuum extractor a fair trial.