Narrow pubic arch

[Pondlife87]

I am 39w+5 today and due to 4 episodes of reduced fetal movement I was offered an induction from beginning of week 39. I opted to try and wait a bit longer and had a sweep today, with plan for an induction if it doesn't work.

Had my sweep today and my midwife informed me I have a 'narrow pelvic arch' and explained this can make vaginal birth more likely to result in instrumental birth, or a c section....both of these I am fine with, as I am of the mind set that I just want the baby out safely.

However after doing some more research I am coming across links to shoulder dystonia which raises risk of baby having a brachial plexus injury, head injury or even still birth. I have always had an irrational fear of shoulder dystonia since finding out I am pregnant and now my fears are multiplied by a million.

Does anyone have any experience of this? Other research has shown up that although 1 in 4 women have a narrow pubic arch, it is more closely linked with women who are tall or have a black background. I am 5'1 and caucasian, so I don't feel like any of the research out there is relevant to my demographic.

Any advice/ experiences would be greatly appreciated. I am so scared now!

Unless you have CPD, then as long as you do the exercise that the midwife recommends you’ll be fine. My size 0 sister has a narrow pubic arch and was given special pelvic and ball exercises to do as she approached 24 weeks - she birthed both of her children vaginally without any intervention but did tear during the first (but that was because she delivered before they could cut her).

Shoulder dystocia is rare and usually happens when the baby is big rather than a narrow pelvis. But if you are worried have a chat with your midwife and see what their advice is.