Introduction

In this study session, we will be dealing with physical examination of the mother to find out the position and wellbeing of the fetus. That is, you will learn how to examine the mother's abdomen (do the four methods of abdominal palpation manoeuvres and auscultation) to determine whether or not the lie or the position of the fetus is head up, head down, or sideways in the uterus.

In addition, you learn how to listen to the fetal heartbeat which can also give you information regarding the baby's position and wellbeing. This is important because the position of the baby in the uterus would indicate if the labor would be difficult or even dangerous both for the mother and the fetus and/or whether or not the woman would give birth to a single child or twins.