North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

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What does a poor flexed head suggest during labor?

Normal positioning
Cephalopelvic disproportion
Effective labor progression
Fetal distress

The correct answer is: Cephalopelvic disproportion

A poor flexed head during labor indicates that the fetal head is not optimally positioned for birth, which can suggest potential challenges with the size and shape of the pelvis relative to the baby’s head. In this context, cephalopelvic disproportion refers to a scenario where the baby’s head is too large to fit through the mother’s pelvis. The flexing of the fetal head is crucial for effective engagement and descent during labor, and if the head is poorly flexed, it may have difficulty navigating the birth canal, leading to complications in the labor process. Poor flexion often means that the fetal neck is extended rather than flexed, which can hinder progress and increase the risk of a prolonged labor. It may point to the need for monitoring and potential interventions, as the mismatch between the size of the head and pelvis can result in ineffective contractions and an increased likelihood of complications such as fetal distress. Recognizing this signs allows the healthcare provider to assess the situation more thoroughly and make informed decisions about labor management.