The fetal skull also has several cranial sutures, which are fibrous joints between the bones of the skull. The fontanels allow the skull to change shape during delivery, as the bones move to accommodate the size of the birth canal. The anterior fontanel is located at the top of the skull, and the posterior fontanel is located at the back of the head. The fontanels, or soft spots, are areas where the bones of the skull have not yet fused.
The fetal skull has several key features that are critical for the delivery process. These bones are connected by fibrous joints called sutures, which allow for movement and flexibility during labor. The fetal skull is made up of several bones, including the occipital bone, two parietal bones, two temporal bones, the frontal bone, and the sphenoid bone. In this article, we will explore the anatomy of the fetal skull, the mechanics of its movements during labor, and the different types of fetal skull presentations.
Understanding the anatomy and mechanics of the fetal skull is essential for healthcare professionals, including obstetricians, midwives, and nurses, who care for pregnant women and deliver babies. The skull protects the brain during birth and allows for the head to change shape to fit through the birth canal. The fetal skull is a complex structure that is critical in the delivery process.
