What is a Transverse Lie? Understanding Transverse Lie and What to Do.

Shoulder presentation, or transverse lie, is an uncommon yet perilous childbirth complication. Learn more about this rare condition and explore the intricacies of shoulder presentation in our comprehensive article.

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Transverse lie is an uncommon and challenging condition for pregnant women during childbirth due to the complex position of the fetus. Most cases of transverse lie require a cesarean delivery.

Join us to learn more about transverse lie in the following article!

Note: This article is for reference only and does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment.

1What is Transverse Lie?

Transverse lie (shoulder presentation or oblique lie) is a condition where the fetus lies horizontally in the mother’s uterus, with the head positioned on one side of the abdomen and the legs on the other.

In a transverse lie, the fetus’s flank, back, or abdomen faces the birth canal and may obstruct the cervix, making childbirth much more complicated. In most cases, a cesarean delivery is necessary instead of a vaginal birth.

Transverse lie is a rare occurrence but poses risks to both the mother and the fetus.

Transverse Lie

2Causes of Transverse Lie

There are several causes of transverse lie, including:

  • Maternal anatomical abnormalities such as uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, placenta previa, etc.
  • The mother is carrying multiple fetuses (twins or more).
  • Oligohydramnios (too little amniotic fluid) or polyhydramnios (too much amniotic fluid), or fetal demise.
  • The mother has a narrow or curved pelvic inlet.
  • An excessively short or long umbilical cord.
  • Preterm labor.
  • Uterine malposition due to previous pelvic surgery.

Causes of Transverse Lie

3Is Transverse Lie Dangerous?

Transverse lie is a rare occurrence and can be dangerous for both the mother and the fetus due to the following reasons:

  • The transverse position of the fetus blocks the cervix, making vaginal delivery difficult.
  • It can cause premature rupture of membranes or cord prolapse, leading to fetal distress and possible fetal demise. If not managed promptly, it can result in uterine rupture.
  • The fetus may suffer respiratory distress if not delivered in time.

Therefore, most cases of transverse lie require a cesarean delivery to ensure the safety of the mother and the fetus.

Risks of Transverse Lie

4What to Do if the Fetus is in Transverse Lie?

If a transverse lie is diagnosed, pregnant women should not panic and should follow the doctor’s advice to ensure a safe cesarean delivery.

The timing of the cesarean delivery will depend on the mother’s health and the fetus’s condition. Typically, if the fetus is doing well, the delivery is scheduled for the 38th week of pregnancy. If there are any complications or risks, an earlier delivery may be indicated.

Management of Transverse Lie

Transverse lie is an abnormal and risky fetal position, and a cesarean delivery is often necessary as advised by a specialist. We hope this information helps you understand this condition better and take the best care of your health!

Source: Vinmec.com

Frequently asked questions

A transverse lie is a complication of pregnancy where the baby is lying horizontally across the uterus, with its shoulders and head on one side of the womb and its legs on the other. This is opposed to the normal, vertical position where the baby’s head or bottom is closest to the birth canal.

A transverse lie is quite rare, occurring in only about 1 in 500 pregnancies. It usually occurs late in the third trimester, often close to the due date, when there is less amniotic fluid and less space for the baby to move around.

There are several possible causes, including multiple births (twins, triplets, etc.), an abnormal amount of amniotic fluid, an abnormally shaped uterus, or a uterine tumor. It can also be caused by a premature rupture of membranes, where the amniotic sac breaks early, causing the baby to shift position.

A transverse lie is usually diagnosed through a physical examination by your healthcare provider, who will feel the position of the baby’s back and head. An ultrasound scan may also be used to confirm the baby’s position and rule out other potential issues.

Yes, there are several methods to correct a transverse lie. One method is an external cephalic version (ECV), where your healthcare provider will apply gentle pressure to your abdomen to turn the baby into a head-down position. This is usually done between 32 and 37 weeks of pregnancy. If an ECV is not successful or an emergency occurs, a cesarean section may be necessary to ensure the safe delivery of the baby.

A transverse lie can pose risks to both the mother and the baby. For the mother, there is an increased risk of placental abruption, where the placenta detaches from the uterus, and postpartum hemorrhage, excessive bleeding after birth. For the baby, there is a risk of cord compression, where the umbilical cord is compressed, restricting oxygen and nutrient supply, and birth trauma, where the baby’s shoulders or arms can become stuck during delivery, requiring immediate medical attention.

If you suspect your baby is in a transverse lie, it is important to consult your healthcare provider as soon as possible. They will be able to diagnose the position of your baby and discuss the best course of action to ensure a safe delivery.
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