O32: Maternal care for known or suspected malpresentation of fetus

O32.0: Maternal care for unstable lie

In the final weeks of pregnancy, the child turns to the birth position. The child’s head then normally points downwards and lies in the mother’s pelvis. The child’s face usually faces the mother’s back and the child’s head is bent towards its chest. The child’s back is turned to the right or left side of the mother.

If the child changes position and is not in the normal birth position at the time of birth, it can cause problems. It can mean, for example, that the birth takes longer than usual, or that a Caesarean is required.