Obstetric Definitions

Question 1

Foetal Lie

Answer 1

Relation of the longitudinal axis of the foetus to the longitudinal axis of the uterus
One side of the foetus should feel smoother, this is the back, whereas the limbs will feel irregular

Question 2

Main types of lie

Answer 2

Longitudinal-Head/buttocks are palpable at each end of the uterus
Oblique lie is where head/buttocks are palpable in IF
Transverse-Foetus is lying directly across the uterus

Question 3

Presenting part of foetus

Answer 3

Part of the foetus that occupies the lower pole of the uterus

Question 4

Types of presentation

Answer 4

Cephalic-Round presenting part

Breech-Broader, soften, less defined presenting part

Question 5

Engagement

Answer 5

Assessed by how much of the head can be felt in the abdomen
Head is engaged when the widest diameter has passed through the pelvic brim
Can be expressed as the number of fifths of the head is palpable above the pelvic brim

Question 6

Position of foetus

Answer 6

Relation of the presenting part to the quadrants of the maternal pelvis
Achieved by the locating the back of the foetus to determine the position of the occiput relative to the birth canal

Question 7

Antenatal Care

Answer 7

Includes planning for pregnancy and extends into neonatal and postpartum period-first 6 weeks
Aim: Promote and maintain physical, mental and social health of mother and baby through education
Detecting and managing complications
Formulating birth plans
Helping mother to experience normal puerperium