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According to the March of Dimes, dystocia or shoulder dystocia happens when the shoulder of the fetus lodges against the mother's pubic bone, trapping the baby in the birth canal. This is a dangerous condition as the baby is unable to breath because the umbilical cord is compressed.
Large Baby
According to a 2008 Journal of Perinatal and Neonatal Nursing article, shoulder dystocia can occur when the baby weighs over 4,000 g or 8 lbs 13 oz, especially when the baby's shoulders exceed the biparietal (diameter across baby's skull, from one parietal bone to the other) width of the head.
Previous Baby with Dystocia
Having a baby previously with shoulder dystocia increases the risk of subsequent births with dystocia.
Diabetes & Obesity
Excessive weight along with pregestational or gestational diabetes can cause dystocia.
Macrosomia
Macrosomia is an oversized fetus that causes dystocia and trauma during birth, creating a need for a cesarean section.
Vacuum Extractor & Forceps
If a vacuum extractor or forceps is used to get the baby out without the cervix being fully dilated, shouder dystocia can occur.
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