Abstract: Provided herein are calibrated obstetrical forceps and methods for using the same. The forceps include two elongate members, each having a fetal engaging end, a handle end, and a shank connecting the two. On at least one of the shanks are calibration markings that may be used to determine the amount of force being applied to the fetal skull. Such markings can be used by birth attendants to gauge the success or failure of an assisted delivery.