Abstract:

Accurate assessment of fetal position, fetal presenting part, and cervical dilation during labor are critical for evaluating labor progression and determining the mode of delivery. However, traditional vaginal examination may lead to adverse birthing experiences and carry a risk of infection. In recent years, intrapartum ultrasound has emerged as an essential tool for labor monitoring due to its high accuracy, reproducibility, and better maternal compliance. By measuring the key parameters such as cervical dilatation (CD), angle of progression (AOP), head-perineum distance (HPD), head-symphysis distance (HSD), midline angle (MLA), head direction (HD), progression distance (PD), occiput-spine angle (OSA) and chin-chest angle (CCA), ultrasound enables precise determination of fetal position and fetal head location. Therefore, intrapartum ultrasound facilitates the timely identification of abnormal fetal positions and provides a guidance on whether interventions such as vacuum extraction, forceps-assisted delivery, or cesarean section are necessary, thereby improves delivery outcomes and reduces the risk of complications. Although ultrasound has demonstrated its auxiliary role in labor monitoring, further clinical data are needed so as to refine and enhance its application. With advancements in technology, intrapartum ultrasound is expected to become more widely adopted, and to enhance the professionalism and safety in labor management.

Key words: Labor presentation, Trial of labor, Labor stage, first, Labor stage, second, Labor stage, third, Intrapartum ultrasound, Labor management