What are the two types of lie?

The two types of lie in obstetrics refer to the orientation of the fetus in relation to the mother’s body. Longitudinal lie means that the fetus is positioned either head down or buttocks down, running parallel to the mother's spine, which is the most common and ideal position for birth. In contrast, transverse lie means the fetus is positioned sideways, either lying horizontally across the uterus, which often complicates delivery and usually requires medical intervention.

Understanding these two positions is crucial for midwifery practice, as they directly influence the management of labor and delivery. A longitudinal lie indicates a favorable condition for vaginal delivery, while a transverse lie may necessitate a cesarean section or specific maneuvers to try to turn the fetus into the correct position. The other options mentioned do not accurately represent the terms used to describe fetal orientation in pregnancy.