Quick Answer
The Heimlich maneuver can be used on a pregnant woman who is choking, but it should be performed with caution and only by someone who is trained in the maneuver. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that pregnant women who are choking receive the Heimlich maneuver in the same way as non-pregnant individuals.
Understanding the Risks and Precautions
Performing the Heimlich maneuver on a pregnant woman requires a certain level of caution due to the physical changes and potential complications associated with pregnancy. Pregnant women may experience pressure on the diaphragm and abdominal organs, which can make it more difficult to breathe and increase the risk of injury during the Heimlich maneuver. However, the risks of not performing the Heimlich maneuver and allowing the woman to choke on an object are typically greater than the risks associated with the maneuver itself.
Performing the Heimlich Maneuver on a Pregnant Woman
If a pregnant woman is choking and unable to speak or cough, you should stand behind her and wrap your arms around her waist, with one hand located just above her navel and the other below her naval. Use your fist to deliver a quick upward thrust to the abdomen, aiming for the diaphragm. This should help dislodge the object from the airway. Repeat the thrusts until the object is dislodged and the woman can breathe freely. If the woman is in her third trimester (after 28 weeks of pregnancy), the maneuver should be performed with greater caution to avoid injury to the uterus and surrounding organs. In this case, the thrusts should be gentler and more shallow to minimize the risk of injury.
Alternative Methods of Relief
In some cases, a pregnant woman who is choking may be unable to receive the Heimlich maneuver due to the presence of a fetal monitor or other medical equipment. In these situations, an alternative method of relief may be necessary. This can include using a back blow, where you strike the woman’s back between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand. This can help loosen the object from the airway and allow the woman to breathe more easily. If the back blow is unsuccessful, you should attempt to perform the Heimlich maneuver, taking care to exercise caution and minimize the risk of injury to the woman and her unborn child.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.