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Foetal indications

Authoring team

Diabetes mellitus:

  • poorly controlled maternal diabetes results in complications such as macrosomia, polyhydramnios and pre-eclampsia
  • affected babies are often delivered by caesarian section

Placental insufficiency:

  • this is suggested by a "small-for-dates" foetus, maternal hypertension, proteinuria and/or previous foetal death
  • the first line of treatment is by attempted induction of labour. Failing this a caesarian section is indicated

Foetal distress:

  • foetal distress is more common in postmature foetuses and in prolonged labour
  • distress is assessed by monitoring the foetal heart rate and by foetal scalp blood sampling

Prolapse of the cord:

  • a caesarian section should be performed if the cervix is insufficiently dilated to permit immediate vaginal delivery

Bad obstetric history:

  • repeated stillbirths and neonatal deaths may be an indication for section

Old primigravida:

  • section for the older woman is not routine but one is more inclined to intervene when minor complications arise

Gross prematurity:

  • between weeks 26 to 32 the foetus is prone to intracranial haemorrhage
  • this may be avoided by caesarian section

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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