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What causes abnormal fetal position?

Sep 05, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Uterine fibroids, intrauterine adhesions, uterine malformations, adenomyosis, and pelvic-fetal disproportion can cause abnormal fetal position. Abnormal fetal position refers to a situation in which the fetus is positioned in the uterus in a way that deviates from the normal cephalic or breech presentation. Uterine fibroids are benign tumors arising from the muscular tissue of the uterine wall. When fibroids are located in the fundus or anterior wall of the uterus, they may interfere with the descent of the fetal head.

Generally, the causes of abnormal fetal position include asymmetrical pelvis, intrauterine adhesions, adenomyosis, uterine fibroids, and uterine malformations. The details are as follows:

1. Asymmetrical Pelvis

An asymmetrical pelvis, caused by congenital pelvic deformities or pelvic tumors, may lead to abnormal fetal position. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and correct the pelvic deformity surgically.

2. Intrauterine Adhesions

Intrauterine adhesions occur when inflammation or surgical trauma leads to adhesion of the endometrial lining, restricting the fetus's ability to rotate freely within the uterus and resulting in abnormal fetal position. Under a doctor's guidance, surgical separation of the adhesions can be performed to relieve symptoms.

3. Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis is a type of endometriosis. When adenomyosis alters the shape of the uterus, it can affect the fetus's position inside the uterus. It is recommended to seek timely medical care and undergo surgery to remove the ectopic endometrial tissue.

4. Uterine Fibroids

Abnormal fetal position refers to a situation where the fetus is not positioned normally—either head-down (cephalic presentation) or buttocks-down (breech presentation). Uterine fibroids are benign tumors arising from the muscular tissue of the uterine wall. When fibroids are located at the fundus or anterior wall of the uterus, they may interfere with the descent of the fetal head, leading to abnormal fetal position. Surgical removal of the fibroids is recommended.

5. Uterine Malformations

Uterine malformations refer to abnormalities in the shape and structure of the uterus, such as septate uterus or bicornuate uterus. These structural anomalies can cause the fetus to assume an abnormal position within the uterus. Treatment depends on the specific condition and may require surgical correction of the uterine malformation.

During treatment, patients are advised to actively communicate with their doctors, follow medical instructions, and undergo regular check-ups and follow-up visits to ensure both fetal safety and maternal health.


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