What is the purpose of the Mauriceau's maneuver?

The Mauriceau's maneuver is specifically designed to help during breech delivery, particularly in freeing the baby’s nose and ensuring that the airway remains clear for effective breathing. In a breech presentation, the baby is delivered feet or buttocks first, which can often lead to the head being trapped or facing an obstruction when it is time for it to be delivered. By using this maneuver, the healthcare provider can assist with the delivery by supporting the baby's body and allowing the head to emerge without compromising the airway, thus ensuring that the baby can breathe as soon as possible. The delicate nature of this maneuver highlights its primary purpose, which centers on minimizing risks to the newborn during a complex delivery scenario.