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ABSTRACT Background The vacuum extractor is a tool that, through controlled vacuum generation, produces negative pressure on the fetal head, allowing traction, flexion, rotation, and extraction. It is currently considered a safe and effective alternative for assisted vaginal delivery. Objective To describe the indications, technical application parameters, complications, and success of the use of the vacuum extractor in childbirth assistance. Materials and Methods A retrospective, observational, and descriptive study was conducted in patients with singleton term pregnancies, in whom delivery was assisted with a rigid-cup vacuum extractor over a five-year period. Indication, technical parameters, complications, and success of the procedure were evaluated and recorded. Results The rigid-cup vacuum extractor was used in 105 patients. The main indications for its application were maternal exhaustion (n=50; 47.6%), prolonged second stage of labor (n=26; 24.8%), and risk of fetal distress (n=10; 9.5%). Successful extraction of the fetal head (defined as successful vacuum delivery) was achieved in 103 cases (98.1%). The most frequent maternal complication was first-degree vaginal tear (n=13; 12.4%), while the most common neonatal finding was caput succedaneum (n=20; 19.0%). Conclusions The use of a rigid-cup vacuum extractor is a useful tool, with a high success rate and a low risk of maternal or neonatal injury.