Shoulder dystocia

Common card · No. 413979

Shoulder dystocia occurs after vaginal delivery of the head, when the baby's anterior shoulder is obstructed by the mother's pubic bone. It is typically diagnosed when the baby's shoulders fail to deliver despite gentle downward traction on the baby's head, requiring the need of special techniques to safely deliver the baby. Retraction of the baby's head back into the vagina, known as "turtle sign" is suggestive of shoulder dystocia. It is a type of obstructed labour. Although most instances of shoulder dystocia are relieved without complications to the baby, the most common complications may include brachial plexus injury, or clavicle fracture. Complications for the mother may include increased risk of vaginal or perineal tears, postpartum bleeding, or uterine rupture. Risk factors include gestational diabetes, previous history of the condition, operative vaginal delivery, obesity in the mother, an overly large baby, and epidural anesthesia. Shoulder dystocia is an obstetric emergency...

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