Pneumomediastinum and cervical emphysema usually occur following esophageal or chest trauma. Rarely do they occur as a complication of childbirth, and only approximately 200 such cases have been reported in the literature worldwide. We describe a new case, and we review the clinical picture, pathophysiology, and management of these conditions. In view of the head and neck symptoms of pneumomediastinum and cervical emphysema during labor—which include dyspnea, cough, sore throat, pain on swallowing, and dysphagia—otolaryngologists might be consulted and should therefore be aware of these conditions in order to recognize and treat them.
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