Question

Possible complications of external cephalic version for breech presentation

a) Uterine rupture and cervical lacerations
b) Fetal distress and preterm labor
c) Placental abruption and oligohydramnios
d) Head entrapment and umbilical cord compression

Answer 1

Possible complications of external cephalic version (ECV) for breech presentation include uterine rupture, fetal distress, placental abruption, and head entrapment.

Step-by-step explanation:

External cephalic version (ECV) is a procedure used to turn a baby in a breech presentation to a head-down position before childbirth. While considered a safe procedure, there are potential complications that can occur. Some possible complications of ECV for breech presentation include:

1. Uterine rupture and cervical lacerations: In rare cases, the force applied during ECV can cause the uterus to rupture or the cervix to tear.
2. Fetal distress and preterm labor: Manipulating the baby's position can sometimes lead to fetal distress or trigger preterm labor.
3. Placental abruption and oligohydramnios: There is a small risk of placental abruption, which is the separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, and oligohydramnios, which is low amniotic fluid levels.
4. Head entrapment and umbilical cord compression: In rare cases, the baby's head can become stuck during ECV, leading to head entrapment and potentially umbilical cord compression.