Compound presentation in labour: highlighting the importance of skilled attendants at birth

Abstract

Objective: To describe the occurrence of compound presentation in labour, as an obstetric emergency.
Background: Compound presentation is a rare obstetric event, defined as the presentation of the hand or foot alongside the head or breech. It places both mother and baby at severe risk. The presence of skilled attendants at birth is crucial to prevent maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality
Case Report: A 28 year old G₄P₃A₃ presented to the labour ward with a history of drainage of liquour of twelve hours duration. Examination revealed the foetal hand and arm presenting alongside the head. Emergency Caesarean Section was performed with favourable outcome for both mother and baby.
Conclusion: This case clearly illustrates the importance of skilled attendants at birth and Advanced life support for Obstetrics (ALSO) in reducing maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality.