Fetal Malposition in Labor

Fetal Position for Vaginal Birth

• The ideal fetal position for vaginal birth is the occipito-anterior (OA) position, where the baby's head is facing down with the back of the head towards the mother's abdomen.

Maternal Risks with Occipito-Posterior Position

• Occipito-posterior (OP) position can increase maternal fatigue and discomfort during labor.
• Risk of prolonged labor due to less efficient contractions and fetal positioning.
• Higher likelihood of requiring interventions such as forceps or vacuum extraction.

Complications During Delivery in Occipito-Posterior Position

• Increased chance of abnormal fetal heart patterns due to compression of the umbilical cord.
• Potential for perineal lacerations or episiotomy due to challenging delivery angle.
• Higher incidence of cesarean delivery due to difficulties in progressing labor.

Fetal Head Position Leading to Arrested Labor

• The brow position can lead to arrested labor, where the fetal head is not in a favorable position for descent.

Maternal Symptoms in Labor with Occipito-Posterior Position

• Increased back pain, often described as back labor, due to pressure on the sacrum.
• Reports of ineffective contractions despite ongoing labor.
• Higher rates of maternal anxiety and stress due to prolonged labor.

Fetal Presentation Assessed During Labor

• During labor, the fetal presentation typically assessed is the position of the baby's head relative to the mother's pelvis, specifically whether it's in the OA, OP, or other positions.