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Fetal Positions: Special Care During Childbirth

A baby (the fetus) often moves down between the pelvic bones (descend) before birth. If this is your first pregnancy, this may happen 2 to 4 weeks before labor. With repeat pregnancies, the baby may not “drop” until labor begins. The baby usually moves down headfirst. If your baby is not in a safe position for birth, or if there is a problem with the placenta, you may need special care. A cesarean section delivery may be needed.

Front view of full-term fetus in uterus between pelvic bones with head down.

Conditions that require special care

Cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD). Baby’s head or body is too big for the pelvis.

Front view of full-term fetus in uterus between pelvic bones, with head down. Head and body are too large for birth canal.

Breech position. Baby is positioned with feet or buttocks first.

Front view of full-term fetus in uterus between pelvic bones with head up, showing breech position.

Transverse position. Baby lies horizontally across the pelvis.

Front view of full-term fetus in uterus between pelvic bones with fetus' body lying sideways over birth canal, showing transverse position.

Placental abruption. Placenta separates from the uterus.

Front view of full-term fetus in uterus in pelvic bones with head down. Placenta is detached from wall of uterus showing placental abruption.

Placenta previa. Placenta blocks the cervix.

Front view of full-term fetus in uterus between pelvic bones with head down. Placenta is blocking birth canal, showing placental previa.

Online Medical Reviewer: Daphne Pierce-Smith RN MSN

Online Medical Reviewer: Tennille Dozier RN BSN RDMS

Online Medical Reviewer: Vinita Wadhawan Researcher

Date Last Reviewed: 06/01/2025

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Fetal Positions: Special Care During Childbirth