What is the overall incidence of shoulder dystocia?

The overall incidence of shoulder dystocia is indeed around 1.4%, making it a relatively uncommon complication during vaginal deliveries. Shoulder dystocia occurs when the fetal shoulder becomes impacted behind the maternal pubic bone after the head has emerged, leading to potential complications for both the mother and the infant if not resolved promptly.

This figure reflects the observation that while shoulder dystocia can happen in any delivery, certain factors such as maternal obesity, diabetes, and a history of shoulder dystocia in previous pregnancies can increase the risk. The 1.4% incidence provides a valuable benchmark for clinicians to recognize and anticipate this situation in practice. Understanding the epidemiology of shoulder dystocia is critical for preparing healthcare providers for management strategies and interventions that can be utilized in these cases.