What is the primary purpose of the McRoberts maneuver?

The McRoberts maneuver is primarily utilized to relieve pressure on the fetal shoulder during cases of shoulder dystocia. This technique involves flexing the mother’s legs tightly to her abdomen, which alters the pelvic angle and increases the space within the pelvic cavity. By doing so, it helps to free the impacted shoulder of the fetus and facilitates delivery. This is particularly crucial during shoulder dystocia, where the anterior shoulder may become lodged behind the pubic symphysis, preventing a straightforward delivery.

The maneuver does not manipulate the baby directly or change its presentation; rather, it focuses on optimizing maternal positioning to alleviate the obstruction. It may also help the healthcare provider to visualize the delivery more effectively but is not specifically designed for this purpose. Hence, the understanding of the McRoberts maneuver centers on its role in relieving shoulder pressure, which can be pivotal for successful delivery in cases of shoulder dystocia.