What it means
The first step usually tried for shoulder dystocia, when the baby's shoulder gets stuck behind the mother's pubic bone after the head is born. Flexing the hips sharply flattens the lower back and rotates the pelvis, which often frees the shoulder. It is often combined with pressure just above the pubic bone. It is named after William McRoberts Jr., an American obstetrician.
For the nurse
When shoulder dystocia is called, note the time, call for help, lay the bed flat and have two people each pull back one leg. Apply suprapubic pressure only as the provider directs, never fundal pressure.
At a glance
| Also written | McRoberts' maneuver, McRoberts manoeuvre |
|---|
Related terms
postpartum
The time after giving birth, usually the first six weeks, while the body returns to its non-pregnant state.