Final answer:
Breech presentation occurs in fewer than 5 percent of births, with the infant positioned buttocks down instead of head down. To assist labor that is not progressing naturally, healthcare providers may administer synthetic oxytocin known as Pitocin. Today, most breech births are delivered via Caesarian section for safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
Breech Presentation and Labor Management
A breech presentation is where the infant is positioned in the uterus with the buttocks or feet closest to the birth canal, rather than the head. This occurrence is relatively uncommon, happening in fewer than 5 percent of all births. There are different types of breech presentations, including the complete breech, where both legs are crossed and downward, and the frank breech, where the legs are folded flat up against the body, with feet near the head.
Historically, vaginal deliveries were common for breech presentations prior to the 1960s. However, due to the increased risks associated with vaginal birth for breech babies, most are now delivered via Caesarian section to ensure the safety of both the mother and child.
When labor is prolonged, or not progressing, and the baby is in the breech position, extra caution is exercised. To manage labor and promote dilation of the cervix, an IV infusion of Pitocin, a synthetic form of oxytocin, may be administered. This hormone helps stimulate contractions and can support the progression of labor, particularly if natural contractions are insufficient to advance dilation.
Effective labor consists of three stages: the first being the dilation of the cervix, second, the expulsion of the baby, and lastly, the passage of the placenta. Intervention with Pitocin is particularly crucial if the progression of labor halts before the fetus has been expelled.