Midwifery Illustrated

1833

Hist. Coll. WQA M468

New York: J. K. Moore, University Book Store

This illustration demonstrates the obstetrical manoeuvre of ‘internal version’. The baby is presently in an undeliverable position with a transvers lie and the head extended. The health professional (doctor or midwife) first pulls down the legs to be delivered first. This is called a ‘breech delivery’. The extended head following may or may not be a problem. If it is, the health professional may attempt to put a finger in the child’s mouth to bring the chin down and flex the head, known as ‘Smellie’s manoeuvre’. If this does not work, forceps are applied to assist delivery.