transverse presentation
Quick Summary
In childbirth, transverse presentation refers to a rare situation where the fetus lies horizontally across the mother's uterus, rather than lengthwise. This is in contrast to the typical vertex (head-first) or breech (buttocks-first) presentations.12
Because the fetus is positioned crosswise, vaginal delivery is usually impossible unless the baby is very small. Consequently, a cesarean section is typically necessary to deliver the baby safely. This presentation occurs in only about one in several hundred labors.21
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
- presentation
Face presentation and transverse (cross) presentation are rare.
Read MoreFace presentation and transverse (cross) presentation are rare.
Read More
birthTransverse presentationIn this relatively rare situation the long axis of the child tends to lie across, or transverse to, the long axis of the mother. Unless the child is very small, delivery through the natural passages is impossible in such cases; therefore, delivery by…
Read MoreIn this relatively rare situation the long axis of the child tends to lie across, or transverse to, the long axis of the mother. Unless the child is very small, delivery through the natural passages is impossible in such cases; therefore, delivery by…
Read More