What Is Shoulder Dystocia?

Delivering a baby can turn from routine to an emergency if the baby experiences shoulder dystocia. Knowing what it is, who is most at risk, and the potential birth injuries a baby can suffer are important to determine what to do if your child has been affected.

What Is Shoulder Dystocia During Birth?

Shoulder dystocia occurs when one or both of the baby’s shoulders becomes stuck in the mother’s pelvis during a vaginal delivery, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Although there is no way to diagnose this as a potential problem, there are certain risk factors that make the issue more likely to occur. For instance, babies who weigh more than 8 pounds, 13 ounces or are past their delivery date may be more susceptible to this complication. Additionally, mothers who have given birth previously to a child with shoulder dystocia, as well as those who have diabetes, are overweight, or are considered petite, may have an increased risk of this situation occurring. Other contributing factors may include the use of oxytocin to induce labor or an epidural to numb the mother’s lower body during delivery.

One of the sure signs of shoulder dystocia is known as the “turtle sign.” This occurs when the baby’s head emerges and then pulls back in like that of a turtle extending its head from its shell. Other signs include the baby’s shoulders failing to descend or the inability for the head or chin to pass through the birth canal easily.

What Are the Effects of Shoulder Dystocia?

Shoulder dystocia quickly becomes an emergency situation because the baby’s nerves and oxygen flow could be impacted, leading to the possibility of short-term and permanent medical conditions.

For example, when the baby does not receive enough oxygen, there is the potential for brain damage, visual impairments, epilepsy, learning difficulties, and neurological disorders due to hypoxia. It is also possible that a child may suffer fractures either to the collarbone or arms if a doctor is forced to break them to allow them to pass through the birth canal. In the event a child’s brachial plexus nerves in the neck and shoulders are compressed, stretched, or torn, it can lead to more serious conditions, including Erb’s palsy and Horner’s syndrome. In extreme cases, pressure on the umbilical cord that limits the blood flow or oxygen can lead to umbilical cord prolapse, which means death due to asphyxia is possible. For mothers, the issue is equally perplexing, as they can also suffer complications such as heavy bleeding or hemorrhaging, severe tearing between the vagina and anus (the perineum), tearing of the uterus, and separation of the pubic bones.

There are a series of maneuvers and techniques that skilled doctors can apply to assist in the event of shoulder dystocia to achieve better positioning for the baby and the mother. However, if the procedures are not properly monitored, serious complications are possible.

Get the Information and Help You Need From the Belleville Birth Injury Lawyers at The Cates Law Firm

If you suspect you or your baby suffered complications due to shoulder dystocia, talk to the Belleville birth injury lawyers at The Cates Law Firm. Their knowledge and guidance can provide answers and help to determine whether you should pursue legal action to protect your child. Call 618-277-3644 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation. Located in Swansea, Illinois, we proudly serve clients in St. Louis, Belleville, East St. Louis, Edwardsville, Granite City, Waterloo, Chester, Carbondale, St. Clair County, Madison County, Monroe County, Randolph County, and other regions throughout Southern Illinois.