Shoulder Dystocia during Childbirth

Shoulder dystocia is a potentially serious condition in which one or both, shoulder(s) of the baby are not entering the pelvis during the birth as they should.

Serious condition in children

Shoulder Dystocia during Childbirth

Shoulder dystocia is a potentially serious complication during birth, in which one or both shoulders of the baby becomes jammed against the bones of the mother’s pelvis. If the baby is not fully delivered in a few minutes, the brain and vital organs may be deprived of oxygen. This rather uncommon condition was first seen in 1730. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), the incidence ranges of shoulder dystocia are 0.6-1.4% and 0.48-0.70% respectively. Risk factors for shoulder dystocia include:

Large fetus
Small maternal pelvis
Maternal obesity (Body Mass Index or BMI greater than 35)
Diabetes mellitus
Postterm pregnancy
Previous shoulder dystocia
Prolongation of late first stage of labor
Prolonged second stage of labor
Assisted vaginal delivery (using vacuum, forceps or both)

This video demonstrates how the McRobert’s Maneuver may help during the case of shoulder dystocia during childbirth:

If you have any insights, questions or comments regarding the topic, please share them in our Comment box below. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Google+ to stay up-to-date on the latest from theAsianparent.com Philippines!

Got a parenting concern? Read articles or ask away and get instant answers on our app. Download theAsianparent Community on iOS or Android now!

Get ready for the baby’s arrival by adding your due date.

Calculate your due date

Written by

Raisa Tan

Become a Contributor

Labor & DeliveryPregnancyEnglish