Frank breech delivery is a medical term used to describe a baby's position during birth. The word "frank" is pronounced as /fræŋk/ and refers to the baby being in a position where its legs are fully extended towards its head, with its buttocks leading the way. The word "breech" is pronounced as /britʃ/ and describes the presentation of the child's buttocks or feet rather than the head during delivery. This type of delivery requires special care and attention from medical professionals.
Frank breech delivery is a medical term used to describe the position of a baby in the womb during the final stages of pregnancy, particularly during childbirth. Specifically, it refers to a situation where the baby's buttocks are positioned to be delivered first, rather than the head. This position occurs in approximately 3-4% of all term pregnancies.
During a frank breech delivery, the baby is typically folded in such a way that its legs are flexed at the hip and knees, while its buttocks are positioned to exit the birth canal before any other body part. This position is different from other breech positions, such as footling or complete breech, where the baby's feet or knees are presenting first.
Frank breech deliveries can present some potential challenges during childbirth, as the largest part of the baby (the head) is not engaged in the pelvis first. This situation may increase the likelihood of complications, such as umbilical cord prolapse or difficulty in delivering the baby's head after the rest of the body has emerged. In such cases, assisted delivery techniques, such as forceps or vacuum extraction, may be used to facilitate the safe delivery of the baby.
It is crucial for healthcare professionals to monitor the progress of a frank breech delivery closely, and they may consider the need for a caesarean section if complications arise. Ultimately, the aim is to ensure the safe delivery of the baby while minimizing the risks to both the mother and infant.