Face presentation

Face presentation refers to a situation in childbirth where the baby's face is the presenting part. This is a relatively rare occurrence, happening in approximately 1 in every 600 births. It is considered a form of malpresentation, which includes any position that is not the normal vertex (head-first) presentation.

Causes

The exact cause of face presentation is not known. However, it is more likely to occur in certain situations, such as when the baby is large (macrosomia), the mother has had multiple previous pregnancies (multiparity), or there is an abnormal amount of amniotic fluid (polyhydramnios or oligohydramnios).

Diagnosis

Face presentation can be suspected based on the mother's symptoms and the healthcare provider's physical examination. It can be confirmed by ultrasound.

Management

The management of face presentation depends on various factors, including the stage of labor, the baby's position, and the mother's health. In some cases, a cesarean section may be necessary.

Complications

Potential complications of face presentation include prolonged labor, injury to the baby's face, and difficulty delivering the shoulders (shoulder dystocia).

See also

• Breech presentation
• Shoulder presentation
• Compound presentation