21/04/2025
SHOULDER DYSTOCIA??
One of the scariestt things that can happen during childbirth!
Baby's head is out, but the shoulders are STUCK.
Yes. The head is out, and we're all holding our breath because one wrong move can cause serious harm.
This condition is called shoulder dystocia and it's an emergency.
We need to act FAST to prevent permanent injury or even deathh.
The baby’s shoulder gets trapped behind the mother’s p***c bone, and delivery becomes very difficult.
If not handled properly:
The baby can develop Erb’s palsy (a type of arm paralysis)
There can be brain damagee from lack of oxygen
Sometimes, the baby doesn't make it
The mother can suffer severe tearss, bleedingg, or even a brokenn pelvis
We use special maneuvers to try and free the shoulder—but it’s not always easy.
Riskk factors? Yes:
Very large baby (macrosomia)
Diabetes in pregnancy
Obesityy
Post-term pregnancy
History of shoulder dystocia in previous birth
But even without these, it can still happen.
That’s why skilled birth attendants are important. No guesswork.
We need to anticipate it. Prepare for it. React FAST if it happens.
It’s not your fault. But it can be deadlyy if not properly managed.
Please, always give birth where trained professionals can help if something goes wrong.
Don’t take chances with your life or your baby’s.
& Midwives - Health Care Champions
