Malpresentation

Malpresentation (pronounced: mal-preh-zuhn-TAY-shuhn) refers to a situation in Obstetrics where the fetus is not in the normal position or orientation within the womb for delivery. The term is derived from the Latin words 'malus' meaning bad and 'praesentatio' meaning presentation.

Types of Malpresentation

There are several types of malpresentation, including:

Breech presentation: This is when the baby's buttocks or feet are positioned to descend through the birth canal first.
Transverse lie: This is when the baby is positioned sideways in the womb.
Face presentation: This is when the baby's face is the presenting part in the birth canal.
Brow presentation: This is when the baby's brow is the presenting part in the birth canal.
Compound presentation: This is when an extremity (usually a hand or arm) presents alongside the head or the buttock in the birth canal.

Causes of Malpresentation

The causes of malpresentation are not always clear, but some factors may increase the risk, including:

Multiple pregnancy: Having more than one baby in the womb can lead to malpresentation.
Premature birth: Babies born before 37 weeks of gestation are more likely to be in a malpresentation.
Uterine abnormalities: Conditions such as fibroids or a bicornuate uterus can lead to malpresentation.
Placenta previa: This condition, where the placenta covers the cervix, can cause malpresentation.

Management of Malpresentation

The management of malpresentation depends on the type of malpresentation, the stage of pregnancy, and the health of the mother and baby. Options may include:

External cephalic version: This is a procedure where a healthcare provider tries to turn the baby into a head-down position.
Cesarean section: If the baby cannot be turned or if there are other complications, a cesarean section may be necessary.

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Malpresentation