Which maneuver is commonly used to prevent laceration or episiotomy during delivery?

The Modified Ritgen maneuver is commonly employed to help prevent lacerations or the need for an episiotomy during delivery. This technique involves applying gentle pressure to the fetal head while it is descending through the birth canal. The purpose of this maneuver is to control the speed of crowning, which can decrease the risk of tearing by allowing the vaginal tissues time to stretch appropriately. It promotes a more gradual emergence of the fetal head, which is crucial since rapid crowning can lead to more significant damage to the perineal area.

While other methods, such as the McRoberts maneuver, are used to assist with shoulder dystocia, and Leopold maneuvers are performed to assess fetal position, these do not specifically focus on preventing lacerations during the delivery process. The Valsalva maneuver is related to pushing and increases intrathoracic pressure, but it isn't aimed at preventing perineal injuries. Thus, the Modified Ritgen maneuver stands out as the technique specifically recognized for its role in reducing the likelihood of lacerations or the need for an episiotomy during childbirth.