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What Causes Cephalopelvic Disproportion?

by | Jun 23, 2023 | Blog, Obstetrician

Cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD) refers to a situation where a mother’s pelvic structure is mismatched with the dimensions and form of her baby’s head, rendering natural delivery difficult or impossible. Cephalopelvic disproportion can result from diverse causes, such as the infant being comparatively larger, fetal positioning abnormalities, unconventional pelvic structures, or maternal conditions that entail possessing a narrow pelvis.

To ensure a safe and successful delivery, healthcare professionals need to understand the underlying reasons behind CPD and be able to identify potential risks while devising appropriate management strategies.

Cephalopelvic disproportion, a condition where the fetal head is too large for the birth canal, often stems from fetal macrosomia – an anomaly where the baby has an excessively large body size. The outcome could be linked to maternal elements, including gestational diabetes or increased weight during pregnancy. Fetal macrosomia increases the chances of cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD) due to the possibility of the infant’s head being too large to pass through the mother’s pelvis.

Certain fetal positions, like breech or transverse, may cause a size difference between the baby’s head and the mother’s pelvis. Sometimes, when the infant’s head and the mother’s pelvic region do not align correctly, it can make giving birth naturally difficult or even impossible.

Anomalies in the mother’s pelvic framework may also lead to cephalopelvic disproportion. Certain factors,such as genetic traits or prior injuries, can result in an unusual pelvic structure, including a compressed or distorted pelvis, exemplified by a narrow opening or a pelvis with an irregular shape. Pelvic anomalies can impede the infant’s passage during childbirth, leading to cephalopelvic disproportion. Consultation from the best obstetrician in Mumbai can help to resolve this issue.

Certain maternal factors can increase the chances of developing cephalopelvic disproportion. Some factors contributingto the problem include being short in height, having a narrow birth canal, or experiencing cephalopelvic disproportion at an earlier stage. Maternal factors impact the size and shape of the birth canal, which in turn can affect the likelihood of CPD.

The possibility of cephalopelvic disproportion can also be affected by genetic variables. Sometimes, the genetic makeup can result in a larger-than-usual head size of the unborn baby or a comparatively small pelvis of the mother. The probability of CPD can increase when there are genetic factors affecting the growth and formation of the skeletal structure.

The likelihood of experiencing cephalopelvic disproportion increases in multiple pregnancies, for instance, twins or triplets. Having multiple fetuses can worsen the problem by adding more pressure on the mother’s pelvic area, obstructing the baby’s head from passing through.

Sometimes, labourcan be impacted by shortcomings or tardiness, resulting in a cephalopelvic disproportion problem. Several issues, including inadequate uterine contractions, prolonged labour, or failure to descend, may cause a dissimilarity in the size of the baby’s head and the mother’s pelvis, leading to complications during natural childbirth.

To obtain a clear understanding of the abnormalities, it is essential to seek guidance from the best gynecologist in Mumbai. Effective management practices for managing cephalopelvic disproportion typically involve careful monitoring, efficient pain management, and quick action in scenarios where proceeding with a vaginal delivery becomes impractical or risky. One way to ensure safe delivery of the baby might be to opt for a cesarean section.

In conclusion, comprehending the causes of cephalopelvic disproportion is crucial for guaranteeing effective management during childbirth. Consulting an experienced gynecologist in Mumbai or other reputable hospitals can provide insightful advice and suggestions to identify potential risks, monitor the progress of labour, and make informed decisions regarding the delivery method to achieve the best possible outcome for both the mother and baby.

Dr. Neelima Mantri, a renowned gynecologist in Mumbai, offers expert care and guidance for addressing cephalopelvic disproportion. She provides personalised strategies to ensure safe and successful childbirth using her expertise and abilities.

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MS & Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, MBBS Obstetrician, Gynecologist

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