Can you predict shoulder dystocia before delivery?

Not always. Doctors can only look into risk-based factors such as baby size, diabetes status, and previous delivery history, but it can still happen unexpectedly.

Does shoulder dystocia hurt the baby in any way?

In most cases, babies recover fully with prompt and skilled medical care, but in rare instances, some muscle injuries may occur, which also heal with time.

Can working out during pregnancy help prevent shoulder dystocia?

Definitely, regular gentle workouts support healthy weight gain, control blood sugar, and promote a smooth labour, lowering the overall risk.

Who Is More Likely to Experience Shoulder Dystocia During Pregnancy?

Shoulder dystocia is a rare condition that occurs in 0.2% to 3% of vaginal deliveries. It is when your baby’s head comes out, but one shoulder gets stuck behind your pubic bone. It can be handled quickly and safely by healthcare professionals using specific delivery techniques.

Why Does Shoulder Dystocia Happen in Some Pregnancies?

No single cause is responsible for its occurrence. Instead, shoulder dystocia usually results from a combination of the baby’s size, labour dynamics, and maternal factors.

Here are the elements which play an important role:

Macrosomia: When a baby weighs more than 4 kg (approximately 8.8 pounds), it increases the risk of shoulder dystocia
Pelvic anatomy: A narrow or smaller pelvis may make passing of the shoulder difficult
Labour conditions: A long or assisted labour by using a vacuum or forceps can increase the chances of shoulder impaction

Are You More Likely to Experience It If You Have Diabetes?

Yes, if you have gestational diabetes, also known as pre-existing diabetes, it is more likely for you to experience shoulder dystocia. This is because exposure to extra glucose develops broader shoulders and higher birth weights in babies.

However, maintaining control over sugar intake, following a balanced diet, and undergoing regular check-ups can help decrease this risk.

Does Having a Baby Large in Size Always Mean You’ll Have Shoulder Dystocia?

Not always. Many individuals deliver babies big in size without any issues.
Yet the risk increases with baby size, but other factors such as your pelvic structure, labour position, and timing of delivery play an important role too.

Your doctor may record fetal growth through ultrasounds and recommend inducing labour early if the baby seems too big for a safe vaginal delivery.

Can Previous Deliveries Affect the Risk?

Yes. Your chances of facing shoulder dystocia can increase up to 10 times if you have experienced it before, but of course, this doesn’t mean it will definitely happen. The doctor will be extremely careful and closely monitor your next pregnancy.

Inform your doctor about all aspects of your previous delivery experiences so they can investigate further and plan accordingly.

Does Maternal Weight Play a Role?

Your body weight can also become a factor. Individuals who are overweight or obese may have a slightly higher risk because of:

Larger baby size
Increased pregnancy complications, such as pre-existing diabetes
problem in positioning

However, the risk can be reduced by focusing on a balanced diet, staying active, and attending regular antenatal visits.

Can Labour Interventions Increase the Risk?

Sometimes, medical techniques used during delivery may unconsciously raise the risk of shoulder dystocia.
For example:

Use of vacuum or forceps for assisted deliveries
The prolonged second stage of labour is simply called the pushing phase
Use of an epidural may reduce muscle control and delay pushing efforts

What Are the Warning Signs During Labour?

Shoulder dystocia is a condition that isn’t always predictable and can occur suddenly. Still, certain signs during delivery may be indicators, such as:

Difficulty in taking out the baby's face and chin
The baby’s head retracted slightly after emerging
The baby is not rotating normally during delivery

What Can You Do to Lower the Risk?

Preventing shoulder dystocia isn’t always possible, but there are some steps you can take to reduce its risk:

Follow the doctor’s advice on diet and medication strictly to prevent excess growth of the baby if you have pre-existing diabetes
Regular check-ups to ensure your baby's size and let the doctor monitor the overall health
Gentle physical activity, like walking or a few yoga poses, regulates a healthy weight and helps in the overall delivery outcome
Your doctor might suggest a planned cesarean section for safety if you’ve had a large baby or shoulder dystocia before

What Should You Do If You’ve Been Told Your Baby Is Too Big?

Don’t panic just because you've heard that the baby is too large; follow the doctor's recommendations.

Frequent ultrasounds to monitor the size
Dietary guidance to control weight gain
Labour induction as soon as possible
Choosing the safest way of delivering the baby

Emotional and Mental Well-Being Matter Too

Several complications in pregnancy can result in anxiety or fear, especially if you’ve heard stories of difficult births.
It’s important to:

Let your doctor know about your problems and concerns openly
Lean on your partner and loved ones for support
Join various classes to gain a deeper understanding of your pregnancy and learn relaxation techniques

Shoulder dystocia does sound scary and risky, but knowing your risk helps you stay calm and prepared. Remember, constant communication and regular check-ups go a long way in ensuring a healthy result for both you and your baby, especially if you have diabetes, a history of big babies, or a previous case of dystocia. Your healthcare team will monitor you closely and plan a safe birth.

Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on Who Is More Likely to Experience Shoulder Dystocia During Pregnancy

Can you predict shoulder dystocia before delivery?
Not always. Doctors can only look into risk-based factors such as baby size, diabetes status, and previous delivery history, but it can still happen unexpectedly.
Does shoulder dystocia hurt the baby in any way?
In most cases, babies recover fully with prompt and skilled medical care, but in rare instances, some muscle injuries may occur, which also heal with time.
Can working out during pregnancy help prevent shoulder dystocia?
Definitely, regular gentle workouts support healthy weight gain, control blood sugar, and promote a smooth labour, lowering the overall risk.