It is not known when the practice of fundal pressure in labor started. Then again, we were lead to believe that it helps the mother with the expulsion of the fetus. However, we also know that uterine rupture, fetal brachial plexus injuries, cord compression and spinal cord injuries are just some of the more common injuries encountered with this practice. We therefore have to ask ourselves if fundal pressure is really warranted. In a prospective cohort study by Simpson et. al. at the St. Johns MercyMedical Center in Missouri it was suggested that a plan which includes
risks, benefits and alternative use of fundal pressure should be reviewed by an interdisciplinary perinatal team. The data about maternal – fetal injuries related to fundal pressure were not publishedfor medico-legal reasons; however anecdotal reports do suggest that these risks do happen.
