In cases of shoulder dystocia, what is a crucial maneuver to attempt?

The McRoberts maneuver is a critical intervention in cases of shoulder dystocia. This technique involves flexing the mother's legs tightly to her abdomen, which alters the pelvic dimensions and may help dislodge the fetal shoulder that is lodged behind the pubic symphysis. By flattening the pelvic curvature and increasing the angle of the pelvis, this maneuver can significantly ease the delivery of the baby's shoulders, thereby reducing the risk of complications related to shoulder dystocia.

This approach has been shown to be effective and is often one of the first-line interventions attempted during shoulder dystocia situations. The rapid execution of the McRoberts maneuver, along with proper communication among the delivery team, is vital to ensure the safety of both the mother and the neonate.

In contrast, other options may not be as effective or safe during shoulder dystocia. For instance, supine positioning of the mother could exacerbate the problem by compressing the aorta and inferior vena cava, potentially leading to maternal hypotension. Fundal pressure is discouraged in this situation, as it can further impact the baby's shoulders and lead to additional complications. Similarly, forced traction on the fetal head is contraindicated because excessive pulling can injure both the fetus and the mother, leading to serious outcomes