Let’s Talk About Shoulder Dystocia
Hey mamas! Today I want to talk about something that can happen during birth called shoulder dystocia. Don’t worry—it’s not super common, but it’s good to know about it so you feel more prepared.
What is Shoulder Dystocia?
Basically, shoulder dystocia happens when your baby’s shoulder gets stuck behind your pubic bone right after the head comes out. It can make it tricky for the rest of the body to follow, and if it takes too long, it can make things stressful for the baby.
Who Might Be at Risk?
It can happen to anyone, but some things make it more likely:
Big baby (we call it macrosomia)
Mom has diabetes
Previous shoulder dystocia
Long labor or use of tools like forceps or vacuum
Even if none of these apply, it can still happen—that’s why it’s good to know the signs.
How Can You Tell It’s Happening?
One common sign is called the “turtle sign.” That’s when the baby’s head comes out but then kind of pulls back a little against your perineum. The rest of the baby’s body might seem stuck.
What Can Be Done?
If this happens, trained providers have some tricks to get the baby moving safely:
McRoberts Maneuver: Pulling your knees up toward your chest to open up the pelvis.
Suprapubic Pressure: Pressing just above your pubic bone to help free the shoulder.
Gaskin Maneuver: Getting on hands and knees to change the angle and help the baby out.
Other rotations or maneuvers: Sometimes the baby’s arm can be rotated or delivered first to make more room.
If none of that works quickly, a hospital team has emergency options to make sure both you and baby stay safe.
After Baby is Born
Doctors or midwives check the baby for any nerve injuries or broken bones and make sure they’re breathing well.
Moms are checked for tears or bleeding.
How to Lower the Risk
While you can’t prevent it completely, there are things that can help:
Manage Baby’s Growth
Keep blood sugar under control if you have diabetes.
Eat a balanced diet and stay active with your provider’s guidance.
Healthy Weight Gain
Following recommended weight gain for your pregnancy helps baby stay a healthy size.
Know Your Labor Options
Upright positions can help open the pelvis.
Avoid prolonged labor when possible.
Plan for Delivery
If you’ve had shoulder dystocia before, talk to your provider about strategies for a safe delivery.
Skilled Support
Having an experienced provider or midwife who knows shoulder dystocia maneuvers can make a huge difference.
Even at home births, have a clear plan for emergency transport.
Bottom Line
Shoulder dystocia isn’t something to panic about, but knowing a little about it helps you feel prepared. Good prenatal care, healthy lifestyle choices, and planning your birth with skilled support can lower the risk and help keep you and your baby safe.
