Moldings
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Molding in the fetus
Molding refers to the process by which the fetal skull bones temporarily change their shape during labor and delivery. The fetal skull is composed of several bones (frontal, parietal, occipital, and temporal bones) that are connected by suturas and fontanelles, rather than being firmly fused.
During passage through the birth canal, pressure from the uterine contractions and the maternal pelvis causes these skull bones to overlap slightly at the sutures. This overlapping reduces the overall dimensions of the fetal head, allowing it to adapt to the shape of the birth canal and facilitating vaginal delivery.
Molding is a normal and physiological process. After birth, as external pressure is relieved, the overlapping bones gradually return to their normal positions, and the head regains its typical shape within a few days. Excessive or abnormal molding, however, may be associated with difficult labor or underlying conditions.
Source:
Langman’s Medical Embryology
