What is face presentation birth?

A face presentation birth occurs when the baby's face is the first part of the baby to appear during delivery, rather than the top of the head. This type of birth is rare, occurring in about 1 in 600 to 1 in 800 births.

Face presentation may be caused by factors such as abnormal positioning of the baby in the uterus, abnormal shape of the mother's pelvis, or a larger-than-average baby. It can also be more common in breech or transverse presentations.

During a face presentation birth, the baby's face is usually delivered first, followed by the rest of the body. This can pose challenges during delivery, as the baby's head may not engage properly in the birth canal, leading to a longer and more difficult labor.

In some cases, a face presentation birth may require medical intervention, such as a cesarean section, to ensure the safety of both the baby and the mother. It is important for healthcare providers to closely monitor the progress of labor and make appropriate decisions to ensure a safe delivery.

After a face presentation birth, the baby may have temporary facial bruising or swelling, but these usually resolve quickly. In rare cases, there may be complications such as facial nerve injury or difficulty breathing, which require medical attention.

Overall, while face presentation birth can be more challenging than a vertex presentation birth, with proper medical care and monitoring, most face presentation births can be safely managed.