Ballottement

Ballottement (pronounced: băl-ŏ-tŏng) is a medical term derived from the French word 'ballotter' meaning 'to toss'. It is a physical examination technique used primarily in prenatal care to assess the presence or position of a fetus.

Definition

Ballottement refers to a medical maneuver used to assess the mobility and consistency of an unengaged fetus in the uterus. The examiner inserts two fingers into the vagina and pushes against the uterus, causing the fetus to rise. The fetus then sinks back down and can be felt rebounding against the fingers.

Procedure

The procedure is performed with the patient in a supine position. The examiner places one hand on the lower abdomen and the other hand is inserted into the vagina. The vaginal hand lifts the presenting part of the fetus, while the abdominal hand feels for the return of the presenting part.

Significance

Ballottement is a significant examination technique in Obstetrics as it helps in confirming pregnancy, usually in the second trimester. It is also used to estimate the size and position of the fetus and the amount of amniotic fluid.

Related Terms

Pregnancy: The state of carrying a developing fetus within the body.
Fetus: The unborn offspring from the end of the 8th week after conception (when the major structures have formed) until birth.
Uterus: The organ in the lower body of a woman where offspring are conceived and in which they gestate before birth.
Obstetrics: The branch of medicine and surgery concerned with childbirth and the care of women giving birth.