An article published in the New York Times on November 13, 2013 described a low-cost instrument that an auto mechanic on Argentina invented to ease assisted vaginal delivery.

It is being tested by the World Health Organization (WHO). If proven safe and effective, the Odon Device would be the first innovation in operative vaginal delivery since the forceps and vacuum extractor.

The device utilizes a soft plastic bag inserted into a vagina of a woman in labor. It gets inflated around the baby’s head to facilitate gentle traction.