Pregnancy push straps for use during delivery

Abstract

A pair of pregnancy push straps each comprising a first strap forming a loop having a handle means positioned thereon, the first strap for engagement with the hand of the expectant mother via a handle and the opposing end of the loop for engagement with the expectant mother's foot instep when the expectant mother is in a supine position with the thighs substantially vertical and the calves horizontal, there being one push strap associated with each leg and used simultaneously, there further being a second strap forming a loop perpendicularly about the first strap, a portion of the second strap fixedly secured to the first strap and removably secured and adjustable to the first strap for positioning about the ankle of the user.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] Applicant claims the benefit of provisional application 60 / 553,889, filed Mar. 18, 2004.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] The present invention relates to a device to aid in the child birth process, and more particularly to a pair of push straps attached to the feet which allows the expectant mother to exert upward pressure (pulling) accentuating flexion at the hips so as to aid in the widening of the birth canal during delivery. [0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art [0005] During the birthing process, the infant is displaced down the birthing canal through uterine contractions of the expectant mother. In most instances, the width of the birth canal is sufficient, together with the positioning of the infant to allow for a normal vaginal birth. However, in some instances, the infant may have significantly greater head to shoulder ratios resulting in a medical condition known as shoulder dystocia. This condition complicate...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide for a novel device against which a mother can exert pressure with her arms and hence comfortably control and help flexion of the hips during contractions so as to aid in delivery of a baby.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide for a novel device which aids in the delivery of the baby by widening the birth canal.

[0010] A still further object of the present invention is to provide for a novel device which can be comfortably and easily slipped over the feet of a pregnant mother and allow her to control when she wants to push.

[0011] A further object of the present invention is the patient controls the force of flexion of the hips, eliminating possible back and pelvic injuries by the delivery team. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Problems solved by technology

However, in some instances, the infant may have significantly greater head to shoulder ratios resulting in a medical condition known as shoulder dystocia.

This condition complicates the normal vaginal birthing process and studies indicate that injuries were apparent in 20% of surviving infants who experiences shoulder dystocia.

However, the condition of shoulder dystocia is usually unexpected and the obstetrician has to be prepared to handle the complication at any time.

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