Obstetrics Definitions

Question 1

Lie

Answer 1

The relation of the longitudinal axis of the fetus to the longitudinal axis of the uterus

Question 2

Vertex

Answer 2

Area on the fetal head delineated by the anterior and posterior fontanelles and the parietal eminences

Question 3

Presentation

Answer 3

The leading part of the fetus which occupies the lower pole of the uterus

Question 4

Position

Answer 4

the position of the fetus is the relation of the denominator of the presenting part to the quadrants of the maternal pelvis. for a cephalic this would be the occiput, for breech this would be the sacrum. eg right occipito anterior

Question 5

Station

Answer 5

the location of the presenting part in the birth canal in relation to the ischial spines

Question 6

Engagement

Answer 6

the fetus is engaged if the widest leading part hass passed through the pelvic canal

Question 7

Caput

Answer 7

oedema typically formed by the tissue overlying the fetal skull during the vaginal birthing process