7 cardinal movements of labor mnemonic

3 min read 07-02-2025

The seven cardinal movements of labor are crucial for both expecting parents and healthcare professionals to understand. These movements describe how a baby moves through the birth canal during the birthing process. Remembering them can be challenging, but using a mnemonic device can make it much easier. This article will cover each movement and provide a useful mnemonic to help you learn them.

Understanding the 7 Cardinal Movements of Labor

The seven cardinal movements describe the positional changes a fetus undergoes during labor to navigate the birth canal. Successful vaginal delivery depends on the baby executing these movements correctly.

These movements are:

Engagement: The baby's head enters the pelvic inlet.
Descent: The baby's head moves down into the birth canal.
Flexion: The baby's chin tucks to its chest, reducing the diameter of the presenting part.
Internal Rotation: The baby's head rotates to align with the mother's pelvis.
Extension: The baby's head extends as it passes under the pubic bone.
External Rotation (Restitution): The baby's head rotates back to its original position.
Expulsion: The baby's body is delivered.

A Mnemonic to Remember the Movements: E-D-F-I-E-R-E

This mnemonic uses the first letter of each cardinal movement to create a memorable phrase. Here's a breakdown:

Engagement
Descent
Flexion
Internal Rotation
Extension
Restitution (External Rotation)
Expulsion

Let's break down each movement in more detail:

1. Engagement

Engagement occurs when the widest diameter of the fetal presenting part (usually the head) passes through the pelvic inlet. This is often assessed during prenatal checkups. It marks a significant milestone in labor's progression.

2. Descent

Descent refers to the downward movement of the fetal presenting part through the birth canal. This process typically occurs concurrently with other cardinal movements. The degree of descent is often measured in centimeters above or below the ischial spines.

3. Flexion

As the fetal head descends, it encounters resistance from the pelvic floor. This resistance causes the head to flex, bringing the chin closer to the chest. Flexion reduces the diameter of the presenting part, facilitating passage through the birth canal.

4. Internal Rotation

Once the head reaches the pelvic floor, it begins to rotate internally. This rotation allows the longest diameter of the fetal head to align with the anteroposterior diameter of the pelvic outlet. This crucial step ensures efficient passage.

5. Extension

As the fetal head emerges from the pelvis, it extends. The chin moves away from the chest, allowing the head to pass under the pubic symphysis. This extension completes the delivery of the head.

6. External Rotation (Restitution)

After the head is delivered, it rotates externally (restitution). The head turns to realign with the shoulders' position. This movement helps position the baby for the final stage of delivery.

7. Expulsion

Once the head and shoulders have been delivered, the remaining body of the baby quickly follows. Expulsion marks the culmination of the seven cardinal movements of labor and the birth of the baby.

Why Remembering These Movements is Important

Understanding the seven cardinal movements of labor provides valuable insight into the birthing process. Midwives and obstetricians utilize this knowledge to assess labor progress, identify potential complications, and make informed decisions during delivery. For expecting parents, knowing these movements can ease anxiety and promote a better understanding of what to expect.

Conclusion

Mastering the seven cardinal movements of labor can be significantly simplified by using the mnemonic E-D-F-I-E-R-E. By understanding these movements, both healthcare professionals and parents-to-be can gain a comprehensive understanding of the birthing process and anticipate the baby's journey through the birth canal. Remember Engagement, Descent, Flexion, Internal Rotation, Extension, Restitution, and Expulsion!