[Relationship between the fetal axis and dystocia in cephalic presenting deliveries]

To study the relationship between the fetal axis and dystocia in cephalic presenting deliveries.

The fetal axis of the observed cases in their late pregnancy were measured by the method which was designed by anatomical projection. During labor the cases with abnormal fetal axis were divided randomly into control group and study group. The abnormal fetal axis in the study group was corrected by hand.

The abnormal fetal axis existed in 108 of 512 (21.1%) cases in late pregnancy and were divided into different degrees. The rate of severe degree was 51.8%. During labor 88 of 483 (18.2%) cases were severe degree. They were sub-divided into control group (30 cases) and study group (58 cases). The results showed: in the study group the descent of fetal-presentation was accelerated, the stage of labor became shorter, the incidence of persistent occipito-posterior or occipito-transverse position and operative delivery were decreased, and the postpartum hemorrhage out down also.

The abnormality of fetal axis exists and it can affect the progress of labor. The abnormal fetal axis should be diagnosed and corrected in time. To some extent, it can reduce the mother's physical consumption in labor and decrease the incidence of dystocia.