Shoulder dystocia is where baby’s head is born but one of the shoulders gets stuck behind the mother’s pubic bone. Although it’s not common, women expecting a ‘big baby’ may be told that they will have to be induced to avoid the risk of shoulder dystocia. However, lots of people who are induced will have an epidural which then increases the risk of shoulder dystocia!
In cases like these, ultrasounds are used to determine a baby’s size. But ultrasounds are notoriously inaccurate at estimating a baby’s size. Also, half of all instances of shoulder dystocia are in baby’s weighing under 4kg; it isn’t just big babies that have the potential to get stuck!
Often induction is presented as being the only option and hospital policy. Please note hospital policy is just that, a policy. It’s a recommendation, and in a lot of instances it isn’t evidence based. It’s a subject I feel strongly about and have spent the last few days ranting about!
Please, make sure that you ALWAYS ask to be given the evidence that supports what you’re being told. It’s your body, your baby and your choice!
If you want to know more book onto one of my hypnobirthing courses.
For more pregnancy advice and information visit either JustExhale or my Instagram: Pregnancy Yoga & Hypnobirthing (@sallyjustexhale) • Instagram photos and videos
