Cardinal Movements PDF

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Cardinal Movements 1. Engagement  When the greatest transverse diameter of the head in the vertex passes thru the pelvic inlet (usually station 0). Head usually enter the pelvis with the sagittal suture aligned in the transverse diameter. 2. Descent  downward movement of the fetal head until it is within the pelvic inlet. Occurs intermittently with contractions and is brought about the pressure of the amniotic fluid, pressure of fundus on head/butt, contractions of abdominal muscles (2nd stage), extension of fetal body a. Occurs throughout labor, ending with birth b. Mom feels discomfort 3. Flexion  occurs as the vertex meets resistance from the cervix, walls of the pelvis or pelvic floor. The chin is brought into contact with the fetal thorax and the presenting diameter is changed 4. Internal rotation  the head rotates about 45 degrees anteriorly to the mid-line under the symphysis. 5. Extension resistance from the pelvic floor causes the fetal head to extend so that the nuchal can pass under the pubic arch. The head emerges thru extension under the symphysis pubis along with shoulders. The anterior fontanel, brow, nose and chin are born successively. 6. External rotation (restitution) after head is born and is free of resistance it untwists, causing the occiput to move 45 degrees back to its original left/right position. External rotation of the head allows the shoulders to rotate internally to fit the pelvis 7. Expulsion  of the rest of the body occurs more smoothly after the head and shoulders...