Abstract:
Face presentation is a rare unanticipated obstetric event characterized
by a longitudinal lie and full extension of the foetal head on the neck
with the occiput against the upper back . Face presentation
occurs in 0.1-0.2% of deliveries but is more common in black
women and in multiparous women. Studies have shown that 60
per cent of face presentations have one or more of the following risk
factors: small fetus, large fetus, high parity, previous caesarean
section (CS), contracted pelvis, fetopelvic disproportion, cord around
the neck multiple pregnancy, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy,
polyhydramnios, uterine or nuchal cord anomaly. But 40 per cent of
face presentations occur with none of these factors . A vaginal
birth at term is possible only if the fetus is in the mentum anterior
position. More than half of cases of face presentation are delivered by
caesarean section. Newborn infants with face presentation usually
have severe facial edema, facial bruising or ecchymosis. Repeated
vaginal examination to assess the presenting part and the progress of
labor may lead to bruises in the face as well as damage to the eyes.
