Which technique is used to determine the fetal position during pregnancy?

Leopold's Maneuvers are a series of four specific palpations performed by the healthcare provider on a pregnant woman's abdomen to determine the position and presentation of the fetus in utero. This hands-on technique provides valuable information about the fetus's orientation and is particularly useful in the third trimester.

Through these maneuvers, the provider can assess the fetal lie (whether the fetus is lying longitudinally or transversely), the presentation (cephalic or breech), and the position of the fetus in relation to the mother's pelvis. This assessment can help guide decisions about the method of delivery and prepare for any potential complications during labor.

In contrast, fetal heart rate monitoring primarily assesses the fetus's well-being rather than its position, while an ultrasound scan provides images that can depict fetal position but may not be the first line of assessment due to cost and accessibility. A pelvic exam can provide information about cervical dilation and effacement, but it does not specifically determine fetal position. Therefore, Leopold's Maneuvers stand out as the direct and practical method for assessing fetal position during pregnancy.