Prediction of Delivery Mode by Ultrasound-assessed Fetal Position in Nulliparous Women With Prolonged First Stage of Labor.

Prediction of Delivery Mode by Ultrasound-assessed Fetal Position in Nulliparous Women With Prolonged First Stage of Labor.

In the past years, numerous studies have been published on the use of ultrasound during labor, showing this is an effective, accurate and objective tool for the assessment of the fetal head position and station. Literature affirmed that traditional transvaginal digital examination is highly subjective and dependent on the operator's experience. On the contrary, the use of intrapartum suprapubic transabdominal ultrasound can improve accuracy in determination of fetal head position and the precise knowledge of the location of specific fetal head landmarks in relationship to maternal pelvis. Intrapartum ultrasound will assist obstetricians in the diagnosis of normal labor progression, suggesting when medical and or operative intervention should be taken in case of complications.

Inclusion Criteria:

• nulliparous women
• Singleton pregnancy
• prolonged first stage of Labor
• average fetal weight
• gestational age at or beyond 37 weeks

Exclusion Criteria:

• IUFD
• malpresentation