What to do about malpresentation of the fetus
Disease description:
During a prenatal checkup, an abnormal fetal position was detected. I'm very concerned and would like to know if there is any way to correct it. I have been very cautious in my daily life, for fear of affecting the baby in my womb.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu
Abnormal fetal position can generally be managed through regular prenatal checkups, fetal position correction exercises, the knee-chest position, and external cephalic version.
Pregnant women should follow their doctor's instructions and attend regular prenatal checkups to monitor changes in fetal position via ultrasound. In the late stages of pregnancy, they may attempt some safe fetal position correction exercises, such as the knee-chest position, to help the fetus turn into a head-down position. However, these exercises must be performed under a doctor's guidance to avoid improper techniques that could lead to adverse outcomes.
The knee-chest position is suitable for pregnant women around 30 weeks gestation and helps the fetus descend into the pelvis through the force of gravity. It should be performed twice daily for approximately 15 minutes each time. External cephalic version is carried out by an experienced doctor around 36 weeks gestation and involves manual manipulation to correct the fetal position.
All corrective measures should be conducted under medical supervision to prevent self-administered interventions that could negatively affect the fetus. If the fetal position cannot be corrected, cesarean section should be considered to ensure the safety of both mother and child, thereby avoiding the risks of difficult labor associated with abnormal fetal position. Individualized assessment is necessary when managing abnormal fetal position, and close communication with a doctor is essential to develop an appropriate plan.
