HomeAnswersObstetrics and GynecologypregnancyIs there any possibility to avoid C-section?

I was informed that my baby's head is not yet fixed for normal delivery. Please explain.

Share
I was informed that my baby's head is not yet fixed for normal delivery. Please explain.

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At November 15, 2017
Reviewed AtFebruary 6, 2024

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am 26 years old, and this is my first pregnancy. I am in my 39th week, and my due date is by next week. When I consulted my doctor, she said that the baby is healthy, and the head is in down position only, but the head did not fix yet. She asked me to wait till due date and then she suggested for C-section. Is there any possibility to avoid C-section?

Answered by Dr. Balakrishnan R

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Let me give you a few basic facts of pregnancy and delivery. As it is your first pregnancy, the uterus is experiencing the process of delivery for the first time.

Baby's head is the only thing in the whole world which can decide if the outlet of your pelvis or the hip bone or the way out through the bone is enough for this baby, it may be different for next baby with different weight. Delivery is not those few hours which you spend in the labor room. The uterus starts to contract more and more frequently, gradually the cervical canal opens, becoming softer day by day and on the part of the baby, the head turns a few mm in angles and directions trying to fit into the bony pelvis. It is like trying to fix a tight cover to a cushion. It has to be manipulated in all different angles till the right angle is got. Usually, God sends baby that fits the mother, unless you have some other problems changing the size of baby or mother's pelvis. It is called engagement.

If the size is not fitting well, then baby's head will keep floating above the pelvic bone. If you force it, then it can cause distress in the baby. It can be decided only at term, I mean 40 weeks and not before. So, wait for the due date and have reexamined per vaginally. If the head has descended well, then you have all the chances of normal delivery. If vaginally evaluated earlier, you may end up in unnecessary cesarean. During this time work well in the house, go for walks and do anything you want. This is the reason old people make the ladies sweep the house this time. When you move around and work about, in one position, the head may just get the right angle and may slip into the pelvis, if it has not. Do not think that with five days what can happen. It takes only 1 minute for the process to occur. It is just like shaking the cushion cover well to fit the cushion. I would suggest you wait and do not lose hope. Get re-evaluated and pray well. In this time keep a watch for four things.

  1. Good baby movement.
  2. No significant pain.
  3. No leaking vaginally.
  4. No bleeding vaginally.

If none of these are seen, then you can wait till due date and definitely try for vaginal. Happy motherhood in advance. All the best.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Balakrishnan R
Dr. Balakrishnan R

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Obstetrics and Gynecology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy